Cramps, a common discomfort in the third trimester

If you have ever woken up during the night with an intense pain in your calf, you are not alone. Cramps are very common in late pregnancy and can happen suddenly, especially during sleep. Although they are very uncomfortable, most of the time they do not pose any problem for you or your baby.

A single cause for cramps is still not known. They are believed to result from a combination of changes in circulation, increased strain on your leg muscles, and the changes that naturally occur in your body during pregnancy.

Some strategies can help to reduce their frequency:

• Staying physically active, within what is appropriate for your pregnancy;
• doing gentle calf stretches before going to bed;
• staying well hydrated;
• and avoiding staying in the same position for too long can make a difference.

If your diet is balanced, as a general rule, there is no need to take supplements. If a magnesium or other mineral deficiency is suspected, your healthcare professional can assess whether it makes sense to investigate or recommend a supplement.

If a cramp strikes, try to slowly stretch your leg and pull your toes up towards your shin. Gently massaging the muscle or walking a few steps can also help ease the pain.

Your diet can also help. Although there is no single food that gets rid of cramps, a balanced diet rich in minerals important for muscle function can contribute to healthy muscle function.