Legs cramps for pregnant women have been occurring since time immortal. However, no one still knows exactly why the leg cramps occur although strong evidence points to a combination of increased weight bearing by the legs during pregnancy since the majority of cramps occur in the late second and third trimester; along with an excess of phosphorus and a deficiency of calcium and/or potassium.

Some tried and true ways to avoid leg cramps is to stretch you legs a few times a day and especially before retiring for the night. Avoid pointing your toes as this can lead to a muscle lock up and leg cramp. Instead pull your toes upwards towards your body and very gently stretch your calf muscles (where nearly all pregnancy cramps occur) a few times. Rotate your feet and wiggle your toes to stimulate circulation as well. Start with a few and build up your repetitions.

Avoid crossing your legs or standing for long periods of time in the same position. Additionally, applying gentle heat to your calf muscles can further relax the legs and many pregnant women find this is especially beneficial at bed time after stretching their legs.

Then attack your leg cramps from a nutrition angle as well. Add potassium-rich foods such as bananas and if indigestion is an issue, a potassium based antacid will give you the double whammy against leg cramps by providing calcium and potassium. Good sources of calcium are milk, green leafy veggies, almonds, tofu and if your doctor gives the okay, salmon.Get the phosphorus-rich foods out of your diet. This will mean saying good-bye to soft drinks, processed meats and snack foods.

Also, if the pain and cramp in either leg is accompanied by any swelling or feels tender, call your doctor as you could have a condition that although rare, could be life threatening. swelling or tenderness or will not go away, call your doctor. You could have a blood clot, although it is a rare condition, your changes are increased during pregnancy and it requires immediate medical attention. Use these tips and alleviate your leg cramps so you can enjoy your pregnancy from start to finish when your healthy, beautiful baby arrives!