Leg Cramps in Pregnancy: Causes, Relief & Prevention
Many women experience painful leg cramps in pregnancy, especially at night. Here’s what’s understood, what you can safely try at home, and when to seek medical advice.
Information here is general and not a substitute for medical advice. If you’re unsure, speak with your midwife, GP or obstetrician.
At a glance
- Up to half of pregnant women report leg cramps, most often at night.
- They typically affect the calves or feet and last seconds to minutes.
- Causes aren’t fully clear; likely contributors include circulation changes, muscle fatigue, weight changes and electrolyte shifts.
- Residual soreness can follow an episode but usually settles quickly.
What may trigger leg cramps in pregnancy?
Possible contributors
- Compression of blood vessels or nerves as the uterus grows
- Increased load on leg muscles and posture changes
- Altered circulation and venous return
- Electrolyte shifts (calcium, magnesium, sodium)
- Muscle fatigue, dehydration or prolonged inactivity
Symptoms & warning signs
Leg cramps are sudden, painful tightening (typically in the calf or foot). Episodes last seconds to minutes; mild soreness may persist after.
When should you seek medical help?
If you notice swelling, redness, warmth, or persistent pain (to rule out DVT), if cramps are severe/frequent and disturb sleep, or if you have additional symptoms such as shortness of breath. Contact your midwife, GP or maternity unit promptly.
What helps: relief & prevention
In-the-moment relief
- Straighten the knee and gently flex the foot upward (toes toward the shin)
- Massage the muscle and take a few steps once comfortable
- Use warmth (bath or heat pack) to ease tightness
Professional support at Santi
While most pregnancy cramps can be managed at home, targeted therapies can help:
- Physiotherapy — posture, circulation and muscle-tension assessment with tailored stretches.
- Massage therapy — gentle, pregnancy-safe massage to reduce tightness and improve blood flow.
Sessions are carried out by qualified therapists familiar with prenatal care. We’ll coordinate with your midwife or GP when needed.
FAQs
Are leg cramps in pregnancy normal?
Yes, they are common — especially in the second and third trimesters. Episodes usually last seconds to minutes and resolve without harm.
What helps during a cramp?
Gently straighten the leg and flex the foot upward (toes toward shin), massage the muscle and stand or walk when comfortable. Warmth can help.
How can I prevent future cramps?
Daily calf stretches (especially before bed), good hydration, supportive footwear and avoiding long periods of standing or sitting are helpful habits.
When should I seek medical advice?
Seek urgent review if you notice swelling, redness, warmth or persistent calf pain (to rule out DVT), or if cramps are severe/frequent and disrupt sleep.
When you want extra help
If cramps are frequent, disruptive, or accompanied by other symptoms, a clinical review is wise. We’ll screen for circulatory or nerve causes and tailor a plan.