Cramps during pregnancy are normal, and can happen in almost half of pregnant women. This problem is characterized by a sudden contraction, with intense pain, being more common in the legs, arms or belly, however, it can appear in any muscle of the body.
Cramps are more common in the last trimester of pregnancy, and can have several causes, the most common of which are associated with metabolic changes in pregnancy, physical inactivity or excessive exercise, dysregulation in the content of electrolytes in the blood, such as magnesium, calcium and sodium or vitamin deficiency, such as D and E.
To alleviate this problem, it is recommended to perform stretching techniques, massage and apply warm water compresses, as well as to practice physical exercises in a moderate and regular way, such as for 30 minutes to 1 hour for 3 to 5 days a week. It is also important to maintain a balanced diet, rich in water, fruits, vegetables and seeds.
What to do to relieve
The main way to relieve cramps that arise during pregnancy is to stretch the affected muscle, just as they happen, pulling the muscle in the opposite direction to the contraction.
Thus, when the cramp happens in the calf, one can sit with the legs straight and try to pull the foot towards the groin. When the cramp happens in the belly, which is very common, since the weight of the uterus can compress the nerves and muscles of the region, stretching can be done by lying on 2 pillows, located on the back, and stretching the arms.
Right after the cramp it is important to stretch, massage the muscle and place a compress of warm water on the painful area. See other tips to relieve cramps on how to treat pregnancy cramps.
In some cases, it may be necessary to treat the cramps with medications, such as magnesium, which should only be used with the doctor's prescription.
How to prevent cramp
Some tips that should be followed to prevent cramps during pregnancy are:
- Do daily stretches, as it helps to give flexibility and correct changes in posture; Practicing light to moderate physical activities, such as walking, for about 30 minutes a day, for 3 to 5 days a week, as they improve strength, elasticity and circulation in the muscles Avoid excessive exercise, as intense and exhausting activities can also trigger fatigue and sudden muscle contractions; Drink about 1.5 to 2 liters a day, keeping your body hydrated; Eat a diet rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium, present in foods such as avocado, orange juice, bananas, milk, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, almonds, hazelnuts or Brazil nuts, for example.
Although these foods are rich in minerals that help to prevent cramps, it may be necessary to take supplements rich in these minerals, which should only be taken by the pregnant woman when indicated by the doctor.
Check out some more tips in the following video:
Is cramp in pregnancy dangerous?
Although it is very uncomfortable, most of the time, having cramps is not dangerous, it is recommended to follow the tips we talked about to relieve and prevent these episodes.
However, if they appear frequently, it is advisable to report to the obstetrician during the prenatal period, so that he can investigate the possible causes, through dosages of electrolytes and vitamins in the blood, and, if necessary, prescribe some medication for correction, such as magnesium. or vitamin supplements.
