Leg cramps during pregnancy: causes and relief

Nighttime leg cramps — sudden, involuntary contractions of the calf muscles — are one of the most jarring discomforts of mid-to-late pregnancy. They're most common in the second and third trimesters and tend to strike at night, often waking you from sleep. The exact cause isn't fully understood, but dehydration, inadequate magnesium and calcium, and the pressure of the growing uterus on nerves and blood vessels are all thought to contribute.

When a cramp strikes: flex your foot toward your shin (not point your toes), massage the muscle firmly, and stand up and walk if you're able. Prevention strategies include staying hydrated, gentle calf stretching before bed, and magnesium supplementation — check with your provider before adding any supplement.