According to studies, as much as 75% of women suffer from leg muscle cramps during pregnancy.
Here at Joy of Life® Surrogacy, we believe that surrogate mothers should be well equipped and informed about pregnancy-related issues in order to enjoy their pregnancy. Therefore, we’ve put together the following seven tips to help you get rid of cramps during pregnancy.
Causes of Cramps
First, there are different kinds of cramps that may be experienced during pregnancy: calf cramps, muscle cramps, and uterine cramps.
Leg and calf cramps during pregnancy are the result of the uterus compressing certain nerves, dehydration, fatigue, or reduced blood circulation in the legs. Mineral deficiency, particularly calcium and magnesium, is also a major culprit.
Uterine cramps are caused by a series of conditions that include the expanding uterus, stretching of the round ligament, gas and bloating, constipation, and contraction of sexually transmitted infections (STI).
Tips To Get Rid of Cramps
So, what can you do to prevent and or get rid of cramps?
Drink 8 Cups of Water Every Day
Water is of paramount importance during your pregnancy, as dehydration increases the frequency of cramps. Eat foods with high water content, such as spinach and cauliflower. Drink two glasses of water at every meal and always keep a water bottle with you.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Eight hours is the recommended amount of sleep each night. Failure to get adequate rest leads to fatigue, and fatigue can lead to cramping. Avoid incorporating power naps during the day if you fail to sleep properly at night.
Stretch Your Calf Muscles
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Avoid painful leg and calf cramps by stretching the muscles before bed. Stand facing a wall, place your hands on the wall to support yourself. Then cross your right leg behind your left leg as you gently bend your left knee. Hold the position for 30 seconds and then repeat on the other leg. Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground and don’t rotate them.
Stay Active
Keeping active during pregnancy is encouraged as it helps to prevent leg and calf cramps. It’s also known to aid during delivery as well. Physical exercise may even lower the chances of developing postpartum depression. Consult with your Joy of Life® surrogacy specialist or doctor before starting an exercise program.
Take a Magnesium Supplement
Magnesium supplements might help prevent calf cramps during pregnancy. Clear all supplements with your doctor before you begin taking them. You can also up your magnesium levels by eating magnesium-rich foods such as nuts, beans, and dried fruits.
Get Adequate Calcium
The recommended target for pregnant women is 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day. Check your calcium levels with your doctor and see if you can take a supplement or incorporate calcium-rich foods into your diet.
Elevate Your Legs While You Sleep
Keep pillows close by so you can elevate your legs. A general rule of thumb is to always keep your lower limbs higher than your hips. This will also bring relief to your lower back. Doing this increases blood circulation, as well.
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Joy of Life Surrogacy Teams up To Walk With You
Joy of Life® is a leading surrogacy company located in Southern California. We are a diverse team made up of former surrogate mothers, parents whose lives were changed by surrogate, clinical coordinators and health care providers. Thanks to our unique experiences we can truly walk with those considering being surrogates and those looking for a surrogacy option.
Are you keen to find out more about surrogacy or being a surrogate? Contact us at 909–908–0772 or send an e-mail to info@joyoflifesurrogacy.com.
