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Leg cramps in pregnant women. Why does my legs move during pregnancy and what to do? Methods of helping a woman

Often, while carrying a baby, expectant mothers are faced with such a nuisance as painful cramps in the calves of the legs. The woman experiences short-term severe pain in the calf muscle, which hardens and becomes stone-like. It is impossible to move the leg or move. Calf cramps during pregnancy most often occur at night, but can also occur during the day. Why is there a painful spasm in the muscle and what to do when the calves of the legs are cramped during pregnancy?

A cramp is a sudden and involuntary contraction of a muscle that is accompanied by discomfort and pain. A seizure attack occurs suddenly and lasts for a minute. As a rule, cramps occur in the muscles of the lower leg; every second woman experiences them during pregnancy. Expectant mothers complain of calf cramps during pregnancy both in the first and third trimester, most often they reduce their calves at night and do not allow them to calmly relax and rest.

Why calves during pregnancy

The cause of any seizure is the excessive accumulation of lactic acid (lactate) in the muscle, which provokes an intense contraction of muscle tissue. The muscle contracts under the influence of nerve impulses with the participation of mineral salts. Pregnancy is the period when an imbalance of metabolism occurs in the body, associated with restructuring and preparation for bearing a fetus. Therefore, cramps during pregnancy, especially in the calves, are not uncommon. It is the muscles of the lower leg, which bear the entire load, that are subject to contraction and painful attacks. In addition to the imbalance of minerals and biochemicals in the body of the expectant mother, there are other reasons that the calves cramp during pregnancy.

Reduces calves during pregnancy: causes

1. During the period of carrying a baby, the body's need for vitamins, minerals, nutrients arises twice, because a woman must provide everything necessary not only for herself, but also for the baby growing in the womb. With a lack of essential elements in the maternal body, the developing fetus "takes" such important trace elements as magnesium, potassium, calcium. It is these minerals that take part in the conduction of nerve impulses. An imbalance arises, provoking seizures.
2. Rapid weight gain during pregnancy, which causes the fulcrum to shift, can cause painful leg cramps. The lower legs are under tremendous stress, accompanied by muscle overstrain, and cause cramps.
3. Varicose veins are a common cause of calf pain during pregnancy. Disruption of blood circulation in the muscles of the legs leads to painful spasms. In addition, the rapidly increasing size of the uterus affects the pelvic vein, thereby disrupting the outflow of venous blood. The blood stagnates and leads to swelling and cramps in the legs.
4. Reduces the calves of the legs during pregnancy against the background of the development of chronic diseases (flat feet, hormonal disorders of the endocrine system, thrombosis, neurological pathologies).
5. Reduced hemoglobin levels in the blood, low sugar levels, as a result of which muscle tissue does not receive the required amount of nutrients and minerals, often causes painful cramps in pregnant women.
6. A spasm of the gastrocnemius muscle can cause excessive consumption of caffeine if a woman abuses coffee, strong black tea.
7. Cramps in the calves of the legs can occur against the background of the use of a large number of diuretics that remove water from the body, and with it mineral salts and nutrients.
8. Wearing uncomfortable and tight shoes during the day can strain your calf muscles. In addition, pregnant women are strictly prohibited from wearing high-heeled shoes and tight clothing.

Causes of seizures by trimester

Leg cramps in the first trimester of pregnancy

The beginning of pregnancy is usually accompanied by early toxicosis. This condition is characterized by symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and general malaise. Against the background of toxicosis, the body of the expectant mother is depleted and loses and does not receive a large amount of necessary vitamins and minerals. The lack of nutrients leads to painful attacks in the legs throughout the first trimester, and a feeling of pulling on the calves during pregnancy. Severe toxicosis and night cramps are a reason to visit a gynecologist who will prescribe a vitamin-mineral complex that will help restore the balance of vitamins in a woman's body.

Leg cramps in the second trimester of pregnancy

The second trimester of pregnancy is a period of active growth of the uterus and fetus. At this stage, it is important to organize adequate nutrition and provide the necessary vitamins and minerals for both the mother and the baby. Seizures in the second trimester most often occur against the background of a mineral deficiency in the diet of the expectant mother. Another reason for painful attacks in the lower leg is the abuse of diuretics, which remove minerals and salts from the body.

Leg cramps in the third trimester of pregnancy

The last months of pregnancy are characterized by an intense increase in the tummy and, as a result, an increase in the load on the legs. It is more and more difficult for a future mother to do her usual things, to travel long distances. The extra pounds gained over the months of an "interesting position" also make themselves felt at the end of the day. The legs become swollen, heavy, and calf cramps often occur at night. And after an attack, pain in the muscles of the lower leg is felt during the day. The main cause of leg cramps in the third trimester is pressure from the uterus on the inferior vena cava and varicose veins. Especially often it reduces calves during pregnancy in women carrying a large baby or with multiple pregnancies. To avoid painful attacks, doctors recommend that pregnant women avoid lying on their back or right side.

Reduces calves during pregnancy: what to do

Often, a sudden attack of pain in the calf muscle takes a woman by surprise. What can you do to relieve pain and discomfort during a cramp?

1. The main rule is not to panic, but to remain calm, breathe deeply and evenly.
2. Pull your toes towards you, do this movement slowly. Relax your leg and repeat the movement again. These simple steps really help to quickly relieve spasm in the calf muscle.
3. If your toes are cramped, find support and press down on your foot. Repeat this movement several times until the discomfort disappears.
4. Massage movements aimed at improving blood circulation help to relieve tension in the gastrocnemius muscle and relieve discomfort. Rub the lower leg muscles well. A warm heating pad at the site of the pulling pain localization helps to eliminate the convulsion.
5. In some cases, a slight pinching of the calf or a small pin prick helps to remove the painful spasm.
6. When the sharp pain has passed, you can walk a little so that the muscles return to their previous position. Then lie down with a pillow or cushion under your feet to reduce the outflow of blood.

Prevention of leg cramps during pregnancy

To avoid painful leg cramps during pregnancy, you should consult a doctor to find out the main cause of their occurrence. Knowing the cause of the seizures, you can solve the problem and avoid unpleasant situations. It is also worth paying attention to the prevention of seizures during the period of bearing crumbs, which should be aimed at preventing vitamin deficiency and micronutrient deficiencies necessary for the normal course of pregnancy, as well as increasing the physical activity of the expectant mother.

Nutrition of a pregnant woman - prevention of seizures

To replenish the deficiency of minerals and vitamins, a pregnant woman should include the following foods in her diet:

• Steamed lean meats and fish. Boiled and baked meat and fish dishes, rich in protein and healthy fats, are useful.
• Products from cereals, rich in vitamins. Buckwheat and oatmeal are especially useful.
• Dairy and fermented milk products (cheese, cottage cheese, yoghurts, kefir), containing a large amount of calcium.
• Vegetables, fruits rich in potassium, magnesium (apricots, bananas, legumes, figs and apples).
• Nuts.

Pregnant women should listen to their body, which always tells what it needs. For example, if a mother-to-be is “drawn” to chocolate, there is a lack of magnesium in her body. If you want flour products or bread, you should increase your nitrogen intake, the lack of which is replenished by protein. The desire to eat sweets testifies to the lack of carbohydrates. The deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body can be replenished by taking vitamin preparations, which are prescribed by a doctor.

To prevent seizures, pregnant women should exclude from the diet tonic drinks containing caffeine (strong tea, coffee, energy drinks). Toning drinks can not only lead to dehydration, but also stimulate muscle tone, resulting in tension in the calf muscles.

Massage and gymnastics - prevention of cramps and varicose veins during pregnancy

Heaviness in the legs, swelling are frequent companions of pregnancy, especially in the last months of bearing a baby. To relieve tension and discomfort in the legs, in the evening, before going to bed, you need to take warm baths with sea salt. After foot baths, a soothing light massage is beneficial to relax the muscles, improve blood circulation in the muscles and prepare you for sleep. It is necessary to massage the legs starting from the foot, slowly moving towards the thigh, making stroking movements. Perform light stroking movements first, and then rub and stretch the muscles. It is helpful to perform a relaxing massage several times a day. A good effect is obtained by acupressure massage of the feet using needle mats or balls, which must be rolled on the floor with the help of the foot.

After the massage, it is advisable to take a horizontal position, and put a roller or pillow under your feet. It is recommended to sleep on the left side. If a pregnant woman has seizures caused by varicose veins, you should pay attention to wearing special compression underwear, as well as apply medicinal ointments that will relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow and reduce the likelihood of leg cramps. Only a doctor can prescribe drugs. Among the effective ointments are:

• Troxevasin.
• Venitan.
• Fastum gel.

Gymnastic exercises for leg cramps during pregnancy

Convulsions during pregnancy are most often the result of circulatory disorders, therefore, regular performance of special gymnastic exercises can prevent attacks of spasms in the calf muscles.

The following exercises are helpful:

1. Slow raises on toes and lowering on the whole foot, repeat several times.
2. Rolling the foot from heel to toe.
3. Rotation of the legs and feet from a prone position. You can do exercises such as "scissors", drawing invisible circles, numbers, letters. Rhythmically alternate swinging legs up and down.
4. Flexion and extension of the feet, toes, pulling the socks towards you, thereby stretching and toning the gastrocnemius muscle.

Folk remedies for leg cramps during pregnancy

For the prevention of cramps in the lower extremities, folk recipes are used, aimed at replenishing the missing trace elements in the diet of the expectant mother and improving nerve conduction. It is advisable to combine folk methods with vitamin and mineral complexes prescribed by a doctor.

Infusion of licorice root for cramps during pregnancy

Licorice is a unique medicinal plant that has a beneficial effect on the nutrition of the muscles of the lower extremities. In addition, the infusion of licorice root has a tonic effect on nerve fibers, normalizes their conductivity. As a result, the number of seizures is reduced. To prepare a healing tincture, you need to pour 100 grams of the plant with 0.5 liters of boiling water and insist until the water cools. Take the tincture three times a day for 1 tsp.

Hawthorn decoction for leg cramps during pregnancy

Hawthorn has a remarkable effect of normalizing muscle cells and restoring nerve fibers. To prepare the broth, you need to take 3 tablespoons of the plant and its fruits, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, and then leave to infuse for up to 3 hours. Take tincture 5 times a day for 2 tablespoons. The duration of treatment with hawthorn decoction is 3 weeks.

Eggshell for leg cramps during pregnancy

As you know, eggshell is the richest source of calcium, which is involved in the structure of bone and muscle tissue. Taking eggshells in powder form is an excellent prevention of calcium deficiency in the body. To prepare the product, you need to crush the washed shell of a raw egg in a mortar and add 4-5 drops of fresh lemon juice to it. Take a vitamin remedy once a day.

Cramps during pregnancy are unpleasant and can be easily avoided. It is enough to listen to the signals of your body and follow the doctor's recommendations. Regular massage, special gymnastics, and leisurely walks will be beneficial and will be an excellent prevention of night cramps. Do not forget about proper and balanced nutrition and, if necessary, take vitamin preparations selected by your doctor.

True, it also happens when cramps during pregnancy do not arise at all. Why does this state arise and can it be overcome?

Cramp during pregnancy or a spasm is an involuntary contraction of a muscle or muscle group, usually accompanied by severe pain. Leg cramps in pregnant women are caused by a sudden contraction of the calf muscles located on the back of the lower leg. Areas of local muscle spasm appear as seals. Most often, this condition occurs in the evening or at night while lying down. At the cellular level, this process is associated with an increase in the excitability of muscle cells, due to which muscle contraction occurs.

Causes of seizures during pregnancy

Magnesium and Calcium

Magnesium during pregnancy- a universal regulator of physiological and biochemical processes of the body. The normal content of magnesium in the body is ensured by the balance of its intake and excretion. During pregnancy, the content of this element in the body is reduced, due to an increase in the volume of circulating blood, the growth of the fetus and uterus. With a lack of magnesium in the body of a pregnant woman, serious complications such as gestosis, spontaneous abortion, premature birth, placental insufficiency, and fetal malnutrition may occur. Magnesium plays an important role in the physiology of the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles and the contraction of their cells. A decrease in its level leads to an increase in neuromuscular excitability and causes the development of seizures.

Deficit magnesium during pregnancy also occurs with increased excretion of this element from the body during vomiting, diarrhea, diabetes. Most often, the development of magnesium deficiency is facilitated by its insufficient intake into the body with food. Some drugs used by pregnant women also make it difficult for the body to absorb and absorb magnesium. For example, antacids such as almagel and maalox used to treat heartburn, enveloping the gastric mucosa and protecting its walls from the aggressive action of hydrochloric acid, at the same time slow down the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

To restore the physiological level of magnesium in the body, both drug therapy and a diet that includes foods high in magnesium and vitamin B6, or, as it is also called, pyridoxine, helps. Magnesium and pyridoxine are closely related. As a rule, a deficiency of this trace element is accompanied by an insufficient content of vitamin B6 in the body.

Calcium during pregnancy- This is another macronutrient, the lack of which is a common cause of calf muscle cramps. Its metabolism in the body is significantly influenced by the parathyroid glands. During pregnancy, there is a decrease in their function, leading to a decrease in the level of calcium in the blood. Calcium salts - the main building material for bones, teeth, nails; they are also necessary for muscles, participate in the processes of hematopoiesis, metabolism, help to reduce vascular permeability, preventing the penetration of microorganisms into the blood and, thus, increasing the body's resistance to infections and toxins.

Calcium is absorbed in the body only in the presence of magnesium. During pregnancy, especially in the last trimester, the need for this macronutrient increases 2-3 times, because it is involved in the formation of fetal bone tissue. Therefore, in case of insufficient intake with food, it is "washed out" from the bones.

Iron deficiency

May be the result of severe anemia. During pregnancy, iron deficiency often occurs, which is part of hemoglobin. Iron is found in the body not only in the composition of blood hemoglobin, but in muscle tissue it is represented by myoglobin. With the help of myoglobin, the muscle provides itself with oxygen. Therefore, with oxygen starvation, which develops with anemia, the metabolism of minerals in the muscle is disrupted and convulsions may occur.

Glucose during pregnancy

Often convulsions in pregnant women associated with a decrease in blood glucose levels. During pregnancy, this is especially important, since glucose is the main energy source and is actively spent not only for the needs of the body of a pregnant woman, but also for the vital functions of the fetus. With an improper diet, when food is taken rarely, but in large quantities, with a late hearty dinner, it is possible to lower blood sugar levels at night and in the morning, which can cause convulsive contractions.

Varicose veins during pregnancy

Phlebeurysm legs are another common side effect of pregnancy, seen in 20–40?% of expectant mothers. In the early stages of pregnancy, this is associated with hormonal influences. Pregnancy hormones weaken the muscle walls of the blood vessels, causing them to dilate in order to accommodate the increased blood volume in the body during pregnancy. Usually, pathology first manifests itself in the second half of pregnancy. Most often, varicose veins appear on the legs, since the enlarged uterus compresses the main blood vessels passing under it (the inferior vena cava, iliac veins), which increases the load on the pelvic veins and sometimes leads to stagnation of blood in the legs. At the initial stage of the disease, a woman pays attention to a cosmetic defect in the form of a vascular mesh. Later, there are complaints of fatigue, heaviness in the legs and their swelling, after prolonged standing or in the afternoon, especially with the onset of heat. Due to the deterioration of blood circulation, the nutrition of the muscle, the delivery of nutrients to it and the removal of metabolic products are disturbed. All this serves as a favorable background for the development of seizures.

Inferior vena cava syndrome

As already mentioned, the growing pregnant uterus exerts significant pressure on the vessels of the small pelvis. In the supine position or on the right side, the pressure builds up, the uterus can squeeze the inferior vena cava located to the right of the spine, causing a violation of the outflow of venous blood from the extremities, and the same mechanism is triggered as in varicose veins. This is accompanied by the appearance convulsions during pregnancy.

Figuratively speaking, many factors converge at one point and outwardly manifest themselves as seizures during pregnancy... It is necessary to inform the obstetrician-gynecologist about this fact and try to understand the causes of the situation in order, together with the doctor, to develop further tactics aimed at eliminating the causes of seizures.

To identify the cause of the seizures, in addition to the accompanying complaints characteristic of each disease, a number of blood parameters will help the doctor. To do this, it is necessary to pass clinical and biochemical blood tests, an analysis for serum iron, a coagulogram. This is required to assess the parameters of hemoglobin, glucose levels, and the amount of trace elements. You may need to consult a therapist, neurologist and endocrinologist.

If you have a close relative in your family that suffers varicose veins or you already have the first signs of this disease, then it is advisable to consult a phlebologist or vascular surgeon, and it is also necessary to carry out ultrasound Doppler ultrasound (USDG) of the veins of the lower extremities. The main task of Doppler ultrasound is to assess the condition of the veins and their valves. Doppler ultrasonography is a full-fledged method for examining veins (that is, an exhaustive study necessary in 90% of cases), diagnosing thrombotic vascular occlusions, varicose veins, and valve insufficiency of the great veins.

First aid for seizures

They can be extremely unpleasant, and pain from them often wakes up pregnant women at night. If they occur, you can independently massage the contracted muscle or ask your husband to rub it in order to increase blood circulation, but it is best to try to get up and walk a little. If the cramps are so severe that it is difficult to get up, then while sitting on the bed, grab the toes of the sore leg and pull them towards you, trying not to bend the knee or lift the leg. Remember to stretch gradually, avoiding fast, harsh movements that can not only aggravate the cramps but also damage the muscles. If your big belly does not allow you to bend forward to grab onto your toes, simply straighten your legs, press them all the way down to the mattress, and extend your toes towards your head as much as possible.

Be sure to notify your doctor. After talking with you and receiving the test results, he can prescribe the intake of vitamin complexes or medications designed to compensate for the deficiency of the substances you are missing and will recommend the consultation of other specialists. If the examination does not determine anything serious, the doctor will give advice that will alleviate your condition and will be preventive measures. By following these guidelines, you are sure to deal with seizures.

Pregnancy is the time a woman should devote to herself. While a new life develops inside, the expectant mother should think not only about her baby, but also about her health in order to avoid problems both during pregnancy and after it.

Vitamins and minerals for pregnant women

As we have already found out, one of the reasons seizures during pregnancy there is a shortage of trace elements in a woman's body, therefore, it is necessary to ensure their sufficient intake both with food and from multivitamin complexes recommended for pregnant women.

The largest amount of magnesium is found in fresh fruits, vegetables, parsley, dill, and green onions. When canning, drying, drying, the concentration of the mineral decreases slightly, but it is much less absorbed in the body. Therefore, magnesium deficiency is less common in summer than in the cold season. There is a high concentration of magnesium in fish and seafood. Pyridoxine is found in large quantities in unrefined cereal grains, vegetables, fish, meat, milk, liver of cattle and cod, and egg yolk.

Drug treatment for long-term latent magnesium deficiency start with preparations containing magnesium with vitamin B6, in the presence of which the absorption of the macronutrient improves. Replenishment of the mineral level occurs not earlier than after two months of therapeutic measures. When taking medications containing magnesium, it must be borne in mind that after 18 hours, the absorption of magnesium from the digestive tract decreases due to its biochemical characteristics. Therefore, medicines containing magnesium are best taken in the morning. Another feature is that its absorption by tissues increases against the background of light physical exertion and decreases with a sedentary lifestyle.

There are diseases for which you cannot take magnesium supplements. These include renal failure, decreased thyroid function, a tendency to thrombus formation, and adrenal insufficiency.

Calcium rich in milk, dairy products, cheese, cottage cheese.

Vitamin D in large quantities is found in the liver of fish, especially cod, as well as butter, egg yolk, milk. It is very important to spend sufficient time in the fresh air, as ultraviolet rays in moderation contribute to the production of the skin's own vitamin D, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium.

Expectant mothers should take vitamin D and calcium supplements throughout their pregnancy, starting at 12 weeks. It is better to drink vitamin D and calcium preparations in the evening, when their absorption by the bone tissue increases. For the purpose of prevention, it is enough to take multivitamin complexes, which include the necessary pregnant vitamins and trace elements.

Taking vitamin D is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to cholecalciferol (one of the forms of vitamin D), hypervitaminosis D, an increase in the level of calcium in the blood and its increased excretion in the urine, urolithiasis with the presence of calcium stones and some other diseases.

To prevent the occurrence anemia during pregnancy multivitamin complexes, which also include microelements, are excellent. Keep in mind, however, that certain foods can significantly reduce the absorption of iron by the body and can overwhelm your efforts. These are cheese, milk, yoghurts, cottage cheese, tea, coffee, spinach, cereals and bran. This food group should be consumed one hour before or two hours after taking iron supplements or products containing it.

Increase your daily intake of high-content foods vitamin C because they increase the absorption of iron by the body. These can be citrus fruits, kiwi, rose hips, strawberries, currants, red and green bell peppers. The greatest amount of iron is found in meat, liver, buckwheat, and pomegranates. The intake of medicines and vitamins is prescribed by the doctor on an individual basis, based on the patient's state of health.

Nutrition during pregnancy

Frequent fractional doses are recommended to maintain normal blood sugar levels. nutrition during pregnancy, as long breaks in meals can also lead to a decrease in blood glucose levels and, accordingly, to seizures. The basis of the diet should be complex carbohydrates (buckwheat and oatmeal, bread and pasta made from wholemeal flour, vegetables and fruits). The carbohydrates in these foods break down slowly, providing a constant supply of moderate amounts of glucose into the bloodstream. As a result, the body receives enough energy without significantly increasing the level of the hormone insulin needed to maintain normal blood sugar levels. When simple carbohydrates (sugar, sweets, cakes) are consumed, a large amount of glucose enters the bloodstream at the same time. In response, a lot of insulin is released, due to which subsequently the blood sugar level drops sharply, provoking muscle spasms.

Clothes for pregnant women

Expectant mothers are advised to wear comfortable shoes with a stable heel no more than 3-4 cm high. In case of forced standing for a long time, you should periodically perform simple exercises to normalize blood circulation in the calf muscles. You can just get up on your toes a few times and lower your foot back to the floor. Massage of the feet helps very well with cramps, as reflex points are activated and blood circulation improves.

When varicose veins it is recommended to wear special anti-varicose tights and stockings. At the same time, it is very important to choose the right size and degree of compression (pressure) of the tights, depending on the state of the venous system. It is better if a doctor can help you with this.

If possible, rest with your legs raised so that blood can circulate freely from your feet to your upper body. In this case, you can do a light massage of the legs, stroking them from the feet to the thigh (in the direction of movement of venous blood through the vessels of the lower extremities) with moderate compression of soft tissues to improve the outflow of venous blood.

To activate blood circulation and improve muscle nutrition, baths at room temperature with sea salt - 2-3 tbsp. l. salt for 4–5? l of water. It is recommended to do them in the evening before going to bed. This procedure relieves fatigue and tension in the leg muscles well. Try to sleep on your left side or place a small pillow under your right buttock to redistribute the weight of the enlarged uterus to the left side of the body and thereby reduce its pressure on the inferior vena cava.

As a prevention of cramps in the calf muscles, the following exercise is recommended: lie on the floor, raise your legs, bending them at the knees, and strongly rest your toes against the wall. Keeping your legs in this position, count to 10. Repeat 6-8 times. You can do this exercise several times a day and before bed. The contrasting pouring of the shins and feet with alternately hot (38–40 ° C) and cool (18–20 ° C) water helps well. Finish pouring warm water, and rub your feet well with a towel.

In conclusion, I would like to note that a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, taking multivitamins and microelements, moderate physical activity minimize the discomfort that may accompany a woman expecting a baby and contribute to the physiological course of pregnancy.

Probably every woman knows how unpleasant the cramps are, especially if they appear during pregnancy. It is important to know that seizures, especially during pregnancy, are not considered normal and indicate that certain changes are taking place in the body.

What are seizures?

Cramps are voluntary muscle contractions, during which a person experiences a fairly strong constricting pain that manifests itself in the area of ​​the foot and lower leg. It is extremely rare that other muscles in the arms, legs, and neck are spasmodic.

Quite often, pregnant women experience calf cramps, which appear at night or early in the morning. The most pronounced convulsions appear precisely in the middle of pregnancy, since at this time the fetus is actively developing, therefore, its needs also increase.

Causes of seizures during pregnancy

In order to relieve an unpleasant feeling, it is necessary to familiarize yourself in more detail with the reasons that can provoke the appearance of seizures, which include the following:

• a strong deficiency in the woman's body of important trace elements (for example, vitamin B). During the first trimester, a lack of valuable trace elements can occur as a result of a strong one, which is accompanied not only by the discovery, but also by a sharp decrease in appetite. Moreover, in the second and third trimester, most of the microelements are taken by the baby;
• excessive smoking abuse can also provoke the development of seizures, as well as a variety of drinks that include caffeine (this also includes strong tea);
• causes seizures and low blood glucose. This is one of the main reasons that during pregnancy it is necessary to adhere to fractional nutrition, due to which the necessary level of glucose is maintained in the blood;
• when pronounced, there is a frequent manifestation of seizures in pregnant women;
• during the last trimester of pregnancy, seizures may result from having. This leads to the fact that the injured veins are simply not able to cope with the heavy load on their own, as a result of which blood stagnates in them and edema begins to form. Due to impaired blood circulation, it becomes difficult to properly nourish the muscles - in the right amount, nutrients do not get to them, and metabolic products are not completely excreted.

All of the above factors can trigger the development of seizures. Quite often, it causes convulsions and the so-called inferior vena cava syndrome. The fact is that in this case, the uterus, which is in a supine position, compresses the inferior vena cava. As a result, a weak venous outflow develops, which in turn provokes the appearance of a rather strong muscle cramps.

How to relieve cramps during pregnancy?

In case of severe cramps during pregnancy, you can ask your husband for help or cope on your own. In this case, it is necessary to gently and gently pull the muscle in which the spasm itself occurred. In no case should you panic, you should try to relax and breathe as deeply and calmly as possible.

If the spasm occurs directly in the calf muscle, gently pull the toes towards you. This movement must be repeated several times until the pain subsides.

Mild massage of the muscle also brings relief, due to which it warms up, therefore, the correct blood circulation is restored. The muscle can be punctured with some sharp object, or you can pinch it a little (you must act very carefully so that painful bruises do not remain or the integrity of the skin is not damaged).

After relief comes, you need to lie down and place your feet on a slight elevation. Due to being in this position, the process of blood outflow is restored, therefore, painful cramps also disappear.

It is worth remembering that the appearance of seizures, which develop against the background of a strong lack of substances, is of serious importance. For example, most often cramps appear when magnesium deficiency is formed, which can also lead to severe back pain, as well as an increase in the tone of the uterus, which in turn provokes.

To begin with, it is necessary to completely abandon self-treatment, since unskilled actions can only provoke a complication of a woman's condition.

If you are constantly worried about convulsions, you need to seek help from a doctor who monitors the course of pregnancy as soon as possible. If necessary, the doctor can prescribe an additional examination by such specialists as a neurologist, therapist, endocrinologist, and also prescribe clinical trials.

In almost all cases, the doctor prescribes the intake of special vitamin complexes or medications that are not capable of harming the unborn baby, but at the same time significantly alleviate the woman's condition. Thanks to the intake of vitamins, the deficiency of nutrients in the woman's body is replenished, the absence of which can lead to the formation of painful seizures.

In the event that, after the study, no special treatment was prescribed, the doctor can give several recommendations, thanks to which the condition of the future mother is greatly facilitated. At the same time, the doctor will also prescribe simple but most effective preventive measures.

Pregnant women should remember to avoid wearing uncomfortable high-heeled shoes to prevent the development of painful seizures. If a woman cannot completely abandon heels, then the ideal option would be to replace them with a stable wedge heel or platform.

Many women do not quit their jobs throughout their pregnancy and, due to their professional activities, are forced to be in a standing position for a long time, as a result of which there is an increased load on their legs. In this case, in order to reduce the exerted load, it is recommended to regularly perform fairly simple, but at the same time the most effective exercises, thanks to which blood circulation in the muscles of the legs is normalized.

A simple alternate rolling from toe to heel and vice versa is beneficial. This exercise is recommended to be performed several times in a row. You can also just stand up on your toes and then lower yourself back down to the floor. If there is an opportunity to take a break at work, it is recommended to lift your legs up for at least a couple of minutes.

Light massage will also help to relieve the load on the legs, while all movements should be as soft as possible and be performed taking into account the movement of venous blood through the vessels of the legs - all movements are directed from the foot to the thigh.

If a woman suffers from varicose veins, it is recommended to regularly wear special anti-varicose stockings and tights. The regular reception of a contrast shower is also beneficial.

Regular baths with the addition of sea salt will help relieve tension and get rid of cramps, while the water should be warm, but not hot.

So that painful cramps are not disturbed during pregnancy, it is recommended to lead an active lifestyle - regularly take walks in the fresh air, which is also beneficial for the development of the baby, visit the pool, and perform special joint exercises developed for pregnant women.

As a prevention of the formation of cramps in the calf muscles, it is worth wearing warm woolen socks at night.

With special attention, you need to monitor your daily diet. In order to avoid unpleasant cramps during pregnancy, it is recommended to diversify your usual diet with foods containing calcium, magnesium and potassium. These include potatoes, beans, bananas, melon, beets, raisins, apricots, dried apricots, milk, beef liver, broccoli. Potassium is also contained in potatoes boiled in "uniform".

Green leafy vegetables, various dairy products, various legumes, egg yolks, figs, and legumes are also excellent sources of potassium.

In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a woman to take special medications that include calcium. However, in no case should it be taken on its own.

Every day, the body of a pregnant woman needs about 450 mg of magnesium, which is found in almost all foods today. The largest amounts of magnesium are found in nuts, whole seeds, all legumes, sunflower seeds, green onions, carrots, and spinach.

To replenish glucose, you need to add "simple carbohydrates" to your daily diet - these are sweets, sugar, cakes and other sweets. But do not overuse sweets so as not to gain 10 extra pounds, which will be quite difficult to get rid of after childbirth.

It is not recommended for a woman to consume strong tea and all kinds of coffee drinks during pregnancy, since caffeine can provoke severe muscle dehydration, therefore, their tension increases and painful cramps form.

Prevention of seizures during pregnancy

In order to prevent the formation of seizures during pregnancy, it is recommended to adhere to fairly simple preventive measures:

• first of all, special attention should be paid to the choice of shoes, since it should be as comfortable as possible (the heel height does not exceed 5 cm);
• during rest, the legs must be raised to a small elevation;
• before going to bed, do warm baths with the addition of sea salt;
• if during pregnancy such an unpleasant disease as varicose veins has developed, it is recommended to use special stockings and tights, but their use should be discussed with your doctor;
• you should try to avoid too much load on your legs, and if you need to stay on your feet for a long time, you should perform simple but most effective exercises (several exercises have been described above);
• starting from the third trimester, it is recommended to sleep on the left side, since it is precisely due to being in this position during sleep that it is possible to prevent the inferior vena cava from being squeezed.

Most often, convulsions occur precisely at night and in order to relieve a severe attack, you need to pull the toes on yourself several times, in which the pain is bothering, after which you need to relax the leg as much as possible.

After that, the tension should ease a little and the cramp will gradually release the muscle, and then a light and gentle massage is performed, but do not overdo it.

In order to warm up the muscle at night, you can use a mustard plaster, a simple heating pad, or simply substitute a leg cramped under a stream of warm water. You can simply walk around the room, due to which blood circulation is restored.

To prevent the legs from cramping at night, you can place them on a small elevation before going to bed - place a small pillow, a roller or a simple blanket folded several times under the legs.

If convulsions bother you constantly, you should not endure discomfort or try to apply traditional methods. The fact is that many traditional methods are capable of not only providing temporary relief, but also causing serious harm, therefore it is strictly forbidden to try to carry out self-treatment. It is imperative to seek help from a doctor, since only he will be able to establish the cause that led to the appearance of seizures and after its elimination it becomes possible to completely get rid of such an unpleasant phenomenon as convulsions.

Pregnancy is an ordeal for the fairer sex. Changes occur in the work of the nervous and endocrine systems, internal organs.

So, in many women, during pregnancy, the calf muscles cramp. Why do these reductions occur? How to get rid of cramps?

Why do leg cramps occur during pregnancy?

One in three experienced cramps in the calf muscles. They are especially painful for a pregnant woman.

Seizures are abrupt and sudden, prolonged or short-term muscle spasms caused by overexertion. Doctors note that in pregnant women contractions appear in the second or third trimester, when the abdomen is already clearly visible. During this period, the uterus also increases in size, which compresses the blood vessels of the pelvis.

There are many reasons for the appearance of abbreviations:

• violation of blood circulation;
• deficiency of potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, glucose and vitamins (B6, etc.);
• excess sodium and phosphates;
• lack of hemoglobin;
• dehydration of the body;
• insufficient or excessive physical activity;
• severe toxicosis;
• blockage of the inferior vena cava;
• expansion of venous vessels;
• swelling;
• anemia;
• myositis;
• diabetes;
• neurological diseases;
• hormonal disbalance;
• deformity of the foot;
• abuse of drugs that increase the rate of filtration of blood by the kidneys;
• bad habits (smoking, drinking strong coffee, tea, etc.);
• tight shoes and clothing;
• uncomfortable posture in a dream.

Deficiency of vitamins and minerals

A woman who carries a child under her heart must consume a certain amount of nutrients every day. Lack of vitamins and minerals can lead to digestive problems and muscle spasms in the calves or feet.

Magnesium, calcium, potassium - three pillars on which the health of the body rests. A diagnosed low level of one of the components will lead to metabolic disorders of other substances.

Enlargement of the uterus

The uterus grows with the baby. The larger the size of this organ, the more it presses on the blood vessels of the pelvis. As a result, there is a violation of blood circulation, which leads to the appearance of spasms.

During sleep, cramps are most often felt in the lower extremities. To prevent cramps from bothering, after 7.5 months of pregnancy, doctors advise sleeping on your side. Another important point is gymnastics. This item will be discussed in more detail later.

Convulsions as a result of toxicosis

The first sign of pregnancy for many women is gagging. Due to toxicosis, dehydration occurs, the loss of essential substances, which ultimately leads to spasms in the limbs.

Night cramps and severe vomiting are a signal that it is time to see a doctor. You can't sit and wait for everything to end. You need to take good care of yourself and your baby.

Bad habits

The following bad habits can lead to seizures:

1. Improper nutrition during pregnancy can provoke the occurrence of not only seizures, but also a number of diseases.
2. Coffee dehydrates the body. Muscles lose their elasticity, which can lead to cramps during pregnancy, as noted.
3. Nicotine negatively affects the health of any person. Cigarette smoke causes a chronic lack of oxygen, which leads to spasms in the limbs.
4. People who abuse alcohol get a whole bunch of diseases. It is quite logical that the expectant mother should not consume this drink.
5. Sugary and fatty foods overload blood vessels. Tubular formations have to work in an enhanced mode.
6. Wearing tight clothes and tight shoes.

Phlebeurysm

Due to the increased load on the legs and due to hormonal disruptions, the expectant mother may experience varicose veins. Doctors note that more than half of all women inhabiting our planet suffer from this disease. The signs of this pathology are:

• fatigue;
• swelling;
• swollen and dilated veins;
• convulsions.

If a woman observed these signs in herself even before pregnancy, while carrying a child, varicose veins can again remind of themselves. Inflamed venous nodes may develop on the legs, resulting in an increased risk of blood clots. Vessels will not be able to function normally, therefore, blockage of tubular formations is possible. In such a situation, compression garments will help.

Excessive stress on the legs

The motor activity of a pregnant woman should be gentle. The expectant mother needs to think not only about herself, but also about the child.

In the later stages of bearing the fetus, it is difficult for a woman to cope with the loads that were previously habitual. Weight has increased, it is difficult to walk and sit, varicose veins and vena cava syndrome may occur.

Doctors note that circulatory disorders are often diagnosed in women who are carrying a large child. Twins or triplets can also cause vena cava syndrome. The uterus grows with the fetus (fruits), presses on the internal organs and blood vessels, which leads to problems with blood circulation in the body.

What to do?

If a woman's calves are cramped at night during pregnancy, the expectant mother should consult a doctor. Problems in the functioning of the body are signals that cannot be ignored.

If a spasm suddenly brings your leg together, you shouldn't panic. Below are some tips that a mother-to-be should listen to.

Proper nutrition

Doctors say that the food should be balanced. This should not only apply to pregnant women. A healthy person will never have problems such as tooth decay, hair damage, brittle nails, etc.

Due to the growth of the fetus in the womb, there is a rapid consumption of iron and folic acids. Fermented milk products will help to replenish the reserves of these substances, which will relieve a woman from seizures.

Signs of a low calcium content include the following symptoms:

• nervousness;
• sleep problems;
• hypertension;
• cardiopalmus;
• tooth decay;
• bleeding gums (see also: how to treat bleeding gums during pregnancy?);
• brittle nails;
• rashes on the skin;
• convulsions.

With a low calcium content, the expectant mother should include sesame seeds, onions, broccoli, cheese, almonds, seafood, legumes and, of course, dairy products in the diet. Foods that interfere with the absorption of calcium will have to be abandoned:

• vegetables containing oxalic acid (sorrel, spinach, etc.);
• products containing a high level of phosphates (caviar, canned fish, raw smoked sausages, etc.);
• soda and coffee.

Indicators of a low level of magnesium in the blood of an expectant mother are the following signs:

• irritability;
• dry mouth;
• vomiting;
• low blood pressure (we recommend reading: low blood pressure during pregnancy: what to do to increase it?);
• slow heartbeat;
• low body temperature;
• numbness in the limbs;
• deviations from the norm of coordination of movements;
• pain in the lumbar region;
• convulsions.

Magnesium, as noted by doctors, is found in almost all products, but it is especially rich in it:

• whole seeds and nuts;
• buckwheat;
• watermelons (not containing nitrates);
• greens;
• seaweed;
• carrot.

A healthy person should consume 360-380 mg of magnesium daily. Pregnant women will need a little more of this trace element: 400-450 mg.

Signs of a low potassium content in the blood of a pregnant woman are the following signals:

• convulsions;
• stool problems;
• swelling;
• low blood pressure;
• cardiopalmus;
• thirst and dry mouth;
• nervous irritability;
• dry skin;
• acne.

The lack of potassium can be replenished by introducing bananas, dried apricots, carrots, rye bread, legumes, beef liver into the diet. Fermented milk products are also rich in this useful substance.

It is worth noting that not always the diet alone will be able to replenish the reserves of the necessary elements. In some cases, doctors prescribe vitamin and mineral complexes to expectant mothers. You can take them only after consulting your doctor.

Gymnastics and massage

To get rid of cramps in the calves, slowly pull your toes towards you, then relax the limb. Repeat these movements until the spasm is relieved.

If unpleasant sensations have arisen in the toes, you need to put pressure on the foot. This should be done until the convulsions stop.

Sometimes pinching and pricking with something sharp, such as a needle or pin, can help relieve seizures. When it brings legs together during pregnancy, massage movements help to get rid of discomfort. Rub the muscles of the foot, lower leg, and thigh to improve blood flow. Apply a thermophore or a bottle of warm water to ease the pulling pain. You can also warm your leg with the help of a shower. Needle mats or balls can be an alternative to acupressure. They need to be rolled on the floor with your feet.

Rest often. When sitting, try to put your limbs on a hill. If you are lying down, lower your feet on a blanket that has been folded several times or on a pillow. This will increase the flow of blood from the lower extremities.

Folk remedies

Everything that nature gives to humanity must be used. Many argue that even tablets can be replaced with decoctions and infusions. Sometimes this treatment really helps. However, during pregnancy, a woman is responsible not only for herself, but also for her child, therefore, before using any remedy, you need to consult a doctor!

One of the folk remedies for cramps is eggshells, a source of calcium. To prepare the medicine, you need to rinse the shell from a fresh egg, grind it to a powder and add a couple of drops of lemon to it. It is advised to use such a remedy once a day.

Pregnancy is a pleasant and exciting period in a woman's life. Expectant mothers for all nine months are anxious and careful about their body, and are ready to endure any uncomfortable sensations, to fulfill all the doctor's requirements, only so that the baby is born healthy.

The first trimester of pregnancy is a period of toxicosis, and with an increase in the fetus in the second and third semesters, other complications are added, including convulsions. In most cases, painful and unpleasant sensations in the calf muscles appear at night, disrupting normal sleep. In the later stages, seizures can occur in the morning, but with a change in position, they decrease, and then gradually stop.

Why this happens and what needs to be done in order to make muscle spasms occur less often, we will consider below.

Causes of seizures in pregnant women

Cramps are the result of strong and painful muscle contractions. This is an uncontrolled spasm that most often occurs shortly after falling asleep. There are several reasons why they happen in pregnant women. But the main one is the lack of necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals by the body. Indeed, an additional load falls on the pregnant woman's body, and the growing fetus takes the necessary amount of microelements for itself, and it is not always possible to quickly replenish it.

It is especially important to monitor nutrition from the second trimester, when the fetus is already of considerable size and begins to grow rapidly. By this time, pregnant women usually end with toxicosis, which contributes to the active "flushing" of all trace elements from the body, and the pregnant woman can eat properly.

Doctors identify three of the most common reasons:

• disorders of mineral metabolism

Arising as a result of toxicosis or unbalanced nutrition... Lack of potassium, calcium and magnesium affects the body's metabolism. Lack of magnesium occurs due to the fact that the body spends much more of it, due to active participation in the metabolic process. Lack of magnesium in pregnant women almost always provokes seizures. Special vitamin complexes and an adjusted diet will help to compensate for its deficiency. The diet should include eggs, legumes, cocoa, dill, broccoli, avocados, and other vegetables and fruits with a high micronutrient content.

Lack of calcium affects the absorption of magnesium and affects the metabolism. Taking a number of medications and caffeine, which is found in large quantities in black tea and coffee, contributes to the "flushing" of calcium from the body. That is why pregnant women are advised to reduce their use. The use of cottage cheese, nuts, hard cheese, herbs, eggs and fish will help to compensate for the lack of calcium in pregnant women. Most of the calcium contained in the body goes to the formation of the skeleton and the rudiments of the teeth of the child.

"Important! There is a direct relationship between the content of magnesium and calcium: lack of calcium affects the absorption of magnesium by the body. "

Potassium in the body is responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses to muscle tissue. Its deficiency causes depression of the nervous system, and in addition to cramps in the calves of the legs, it causes drowsiness, weakness, and decreased heart rate. Low potassium in the body appears closer to the second trimester of pregnancy, and is especially noticeable in the last weeks before childbirth. For expectant mothers, the doctor prescribes potassium preparations, and the diet should include dried apricots, seaweed, dried fruit compote, and baked potatoes.

• Iron-deficiency anemia

Lack of iron in the body usually occurs in women in the second trimester of pregnancy. The load on the body becomes greater, and it becomes more and more difficult for him to cope with it. Anemia leads to metabolic disorders, as a result of which the required amount of oxygen ceases to enter the blood and the body as a whole.

"Important! Lack of iron in the body of the expectant mother leads to oxygen starvation of the fetus, which can have negative consequences for the baby. "

The doctor prescribes the intake of iron preparations in the form of tablets or injections for the pregnant woman, based on the result of a blood test. It is good to eat pomegranate, fresh beet juice, buckwheat porridge and other iron-containing foods.

• phlebeurysm

This disease is widespread in pregnant women, and its consequences are manifested in the form of vascular "stars", the appearance of veins on the surface of the legs. Varicose veins are the result of increased hormonal activity of the body. It is because of the restructuring that occurs in the body during pregnancy that the tone of the veins decreases and blood stagnation appears in the vessels.

With the growth of the fetus in later stages, the uterus grows and begins to press on the veins located in the small pelvis, which causes heaviness in the legs and swelling (especially in summer). To reduce the load on the legs and reduce the likelihood of cramps, taking venotonic drugs and wearing compression underwear, which is selected individually, helps.

There are a number of other reasons that cause seizures, which are not so common, but expectant mothers need to know about them:

• a decrease in the (sugar) content of glucose in the blood. Glucose is the main source of energy used by the body during fetal growth. Due to its lack during pregnancy, convulsions may occur;
• drinking drinks with a high caffeine content, nicotine. Caffeine contributes to muscle dehydration, which causes involuntary contractions in the form of seizures. Nicotine provokes a lack of oxygen, which affects muscle contractility and provokes spasms;
• taking diuretics. When edema appears (which is especially important in the second half of pregnancy and in hot weather), doctors prescribe diuretics to expectant mothers. With the release of excess fluid from the body, microelements are also "washed out", the lack of which provokes convulsions;
• pressure of the uterus on the inferior vena cava. The inferior vena cava runs along the spine and is connected with the vessels of the lower extremities and pelvis. In late pregnancy (about 30 weeks), in the supine position, the significantly enlarged uterus compresses the vein wall. This causes shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and spasms of the calf muscles. At this stage of pregnancy, for better health, you need to sleep only on your side and use special rollers or pillows for pregnant women.

How to deal with a seizure

The cramp comes on suddenly and can be unpleasant. Knowing how to properly relieve muscle spasm, you can quickly get rid of discomfort.

First of all, the legs need warmth: a heating pad, a plastic bottle with hot water, a shower. If this is not possible (late night, train ride, hotel room, etc.), the following simple steps will help:

1. Put your leg straight and pull the toe towards you with force.
2. Rub the leg with force in the place where the muscle is contracted, pinch or prick with a sharp object (pin, needle).
3. Massage the leg in a circular motion, pressing hard enough on it.
4. Walk on the floor with bare feet, standing on your toes and rolling your feet from toes to heel.

After the cramps are relieved, it is recommended to lie down for a while with the legs raised up. This will cause the blood to drain and prevent new spasms from developing for a while. In the future, it is necessary to consult a gynecologist and the treatment that he will prescribe based on the test results.

Treatment

In order for the treatment to be effective, it is important to find out the cause of the muscle spasm. To do this, the gynecologist will refer you for consultation to narrow specialists: an endocrinologist or a neuropathologist, and prescribe laboratory tests. As a rule, it is enough to make a CBC, a biochemical blood test and a glucose test. The essence of the treatment is to eliminate the causes of convulsions.

Nutrition

During pregnancy, medication for seizures is rarely used so as not to harm the fetus. A vitamin complex is prescribed (with a predominance of the desired element) and the diet is adjusted.

It should be fractional and include a large amount of complex carbohydrates (pasta, black bread, fruits and vegetables). Confectionery, jam, chocolate, honey are excluded.

For better absorption by the body, walks in the fresh air are necessary. This will activate blood flow and oxygenate the blood.

Physiotherapy

The exercises should be done daily, preferably at the same time. Perform slowly, without stress, for pleasure, 5 - 7 times.

1. Get into a comfortable sitting position with your back straight. Stretch your legs forward and pull the toe towards you, return to the starting position.
2. Sitting in the same position, pull your leg towards you, bending it at the hip joint. Do a few back and forth lunges with your arms. Do the same with the other leg.
3. Sitting on the floor, pull your leg towards you, bend it at the knee and make several circular movements. Do the same with the other leg. This exercise is not only the prevention of seizures, but also the preparation of the pelvic joints for childbirth.

Gymnastics in special groups, yoga and swimming in the pool will be useful.

Prevention of seizures during pregnancy

The following guidelines will help prevent seizures:

1. Balanced split meals.
2. Shoes should be comfortable and spacious, with a stable heel no higher than 5 cm.
3. Move a lot. If you need to stand for a long time, rise on your toes, and then lower yourself onto your heels several times.
4. Rest often with your legs up or on a roller.
5. As often as possible, massage your legs from the hip downward.
6. Wear compression garments if necessary.
7. Before going to bed, make warm foot baths with sea salt (2-3 tablespoons per 5 liters of water). They will relieve fatigue and tension in the calf muscles.