How to Prevent Leg Cramps During Pregnancy

Video Transcript

"At some point in your life you are going to suffer from a leg cramp. Well another joy that pregnancy brings, more leg cramps. Well I'm Dr. Jill here from Tampa, Florida here to tell you how to prevent leg cramps in pregnancy. They are going to occur. Simple things to help prevent them, exercise. Make sure you keep your circulation growing. Pregnancy hormones increased weight all make this more susceptible for happening. I recommend increasing your exercise, rest while you can with your legs elevated. You can wear those support stockings that help with preventing the cramps as well as to help prevent varicose veins. You can use heat and massage to help prevent. One extra little tip that you won't hear about is don't stretch. In the morning you are getting out of bed. Instead of getting out of bed and doing that good morning stretch, don't do it. That stimulates the leg cramps from happening. Now if you are doing all of these things to prevent and you are still having leg cramps you need to talk to your healthcare provider. A serious reason for leg cramps could be irregularities in your potassium or calcium levels so make sure that you are checked by your healthcare provider. I'm Dr. Jill from Tampa, Florida telling you how to prevent leg cramps in pregnancy."