From the Guidelines
Cramps during pregnancy are primarily caused by hormonal changes, particularly the increased levels of progesterone, which can slow gastrointestinal motility and lead to constipation, a common complaint in approximately 20-40% of pregnant individuals 1. To manage and prevent cramps, consider the following strategies:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to help soften stools and ease bowel movements.
- Engage in gentle stretching exercises, focusing on the legs and back, to help relax muscles and improve circulation.
- Apply a warm compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time to help relax muscles and reduce discomfort.
- Take a warm bath to relax muscles and reduce stress.
- Wear comfortable, supportive shoes and avoid standing for long periods to reduce strain on the back and legs.
- Consider taking a magnesium supplement (250-300 mg daily) after consulting your healthcare provider, as magnesium deficiency can contribute to muscle cramps.
- Increase dietary fiber intake to the recommended daily amount of approximately 30 g/d, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, to help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation 1. For mild pain relief, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication. It's also important to note that while some discomfort is normal during pregnancy, severe pain should always be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out any underlying conditions that may require medical attention. Pregnancy induces various physiological changes, including increases in blood volume and cardiac output, which can also contribute to cramps and discomfort 1. However, the primary cause of cramps is related to hormonal changes and constipation, rather than cardiovascular alterations.
From the Research
Causes of Cramps During Pregnancy
There are no direct research papers provided to answer the question of what causes cramps during pregnancy. However, the available studies discuss the safety and use of various analgesics during pregnancy, which may be related to cramp management.
Analgesic Use During Pregnancy
- Acetaminophen is considered the safest analgesic and antipyretic for pregnant women 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are generally not recommended in pregnancy, especially during organogenesis and in the third trimester 2, 4.
- Aspirin may be administered to pregnant women as an anti-inflammatory agent, but in the lowest therapeutic dosage and with caution in the later stages of pregnancy 5.
Safety Considerations
- The use of prescription drugs during pregnancy is common and has been increasing over time 6.
- The benefit to risk ratio of every drug must be carefully weighed, and only those with proved safety to the feto-maternal unit should be prescribed 5.
- Healthcare providers should inform patients about the potential risks and benefits of analgesic use during pregnancy 3, 4, 6.