Many pregnant women get lower leg cramps, often in the middle of the night in their second and third trimesters.
Experts aren't sure what causes "charley horses" (the nonclinical name for painful cramps in calf muscles). While they can be extremely painful, charley horses are — luckily! — usually brief.
If you're pregnant and getting leg cramps, try these tips:
Talk to your doctor to see if extra calcium or magnesium could help you. Always check with the doctor before taking any supplements during your pregnancy.
Call your doctor right away if the leg pain:
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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