Overall, I can't complain much about this pregnancy--my first trimester wasn't that bad and the second trimester has been a cake walk so far (knock on wood). So I probably shouldn't complain at all, but one problem I've developed the past couple of weeks are leg, calf, and foot cramps.
Have any of you dealt with this before? The cramps are most severe in the morning, but sometimes my legs ache all day. The pain reminds me of when I would work double-shifts as a waitress in high school and be on my feet all day. The doctor recommended getting more potassium and magnesium, so I have been eating bananas and spinach like crazy, but it hasn't really helped. I've also tried to make sure I'm not too dehydrated, but that hasn't resolved the issue either. Any other suggestions out there?
5 comments:
I have no idea, but are they on the same leg? Does it correspond with any sort of baby position?
I can remember getting charlie horses a lot when I was pregnant. I would always have to flex my feet to stretch my calf out before I got out of bed. I knew if I pointed my toes, I'd be in trouble.... I don't know if that's what you are experiencing?
I read somewhere in some medical article once that calcium might help. You could consider support stockings as a general help for tired legs, but good fitted ones cost $$ if your insurance doesn't cover it. I got them too occasionally in my first pregnancy, and they are literally a pain, but like most pregnancy ills, the good thing is they go away after the baby is born . . .
By "them" I meant the cramps, not the stockings (anyone know how to edit already-posted comments?)
I would agree that the support stockings might help (plus it's getting colder, so why not add a layer to your outfit). Also, my sister-in-law says "try elevating your legs at night" - she's not pregnant now, but she still sleeps with the lower part of her bed raised up (you could try pillows under them before you subject John to a raised mattress - actually my brother sleeps with his legs raised too). And I think you should have John massage your legs and feet every night! Good luck!
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