34 weeks pregnant and having bad leg cramps, is that normal? Also having menstrual like cramping.?

Question

I am now 34 weeks pregnant and have just recently started getting really bad aches and leg cramps. Tylenol eases the pain, but doesn't make it go away. I was just wondering if this is normal and what I can do to help relieve the pain. Also, I have been getting moderate (sometimes painful) menstrual-like cramps. Is this normal? Anything I can do for relief?

Answer 1

Cramps and leg pain are a reason to check in with your doctor. Everything is probably fine but at this stage any new pains should be reported. So very much love to you. Just give your doctor a call in the morning.

For tonight try elevating your legs or sleeping with a pillow between your knees. Also, heat might help, like a heating pad or a towel that you place in the microwave until its warm. This might help on the cramps too but don't make it too hot if your're placing it on your lower belly. Try a nice warm bath before you sleep.

If the cramps get bad call the Dr. tonight as you may be beginning labor. You'll get through it. The 8th month is a little scary because labor is scary until you do it. You're gonna be great, you just don't know it yet!

Again, all my love to you. You're in my prayers tonight, not because I'm worried, just because being a new mom is so precious.

Answer 2

Pregnant Leg Cramps

Answer 3

Bad Leg Cramps

Answer 4

I was told that muscle cramps in your legs can be caused by lack of calcium and magnesium. Calcium is best taken at night, so I take a couple of tablets before sleep and only occasionally get leg cramps now. Look for foods rich in magnesium too. As far as the menstrual-like cramps I would assume it's just your uterus twitching and stretching and preparing for labour in the coming weeks. Try to lightly massage the skin and go for walks. This helps to get everything moving and you should (hopefully) have less cramping. Good luck!

Answer 5

I'm currently 30wks pregnant and i experienced bad leg cramps from about 24wks or so i think. And i do mean bad - waking me up in the middle of the night screaming bad. Eat bananas! I kid you not, it works! I was told to eat bananas and ever since i have not had such painful leg cramps. They do still cramp from time to time (but only slightly) - i stretch my legs and point my toes out, especially before i go to bed. I also elevate them as much as possible (on a cushion/pillow) - it helps.

As to the cramps i can't comment. I do get cramps but they are round ligament pains - and i'm sure you've experienced those so i guess this is different pain? I can only suggest going to see your doc and asking.

Hope it gets better - good luck :)

Answer 6

I would definitely call your doctor to rule out a serious cause of the cramps. There is an increased risk of blood clots during pregnancy and your doc needs to know you are having these symptoms.
However, it's probably muscle cramps. I would try soaking in warm water ( I know there are temperature limits during pregnancy). Maybe you could have someone massage your legs. Also, if your dr says its okay, you could try icy hot.

Answer 7

You should check this Sciatica Natural Treatment
http://cure-sciatica.info

Normally, I would not answer a question like this as my expertise is generally in medication but I had severe sciatica while I was pregnant with my 3rd child (after having had twins) and I had sciatica so bad that I was finding it difficult to walk. I tried massage therapy and physical therapy and could not take medication
I went to the chiropractor and the pain was instantly relieved. My hips and lower back were out of alignment because I had carried twins the year before. On occasion a Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) can also work but they usually only work on one joint at a time - the chiropractor will do your whole back which works faster. Anyone who does not believe in chiropractors will tell you they are quacks - don't listen.
I don't necessarily believe that chiropractors can cure things like diabetes but they can definitely relieve some types of back pain especially if a pinched nerve is involved which is usually the cause of sciatica. Try a reputable chiropractor ASAP!

Answer 8

You may need some supplements like potassium. Hylands makes a homeopathic formula specifically for leg cramps. Check here: http://www.herbspro.com/15824/LegCramps.htm
These should be safe during pregnancy but check the ingredients list and ask your doc. or better yet a naturopath who can definitely tell you.
Here's an article about leg cramps during pregnancy you might want to check out. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/night-leg-cramps/AN00499

Answer 9

Braxton hicks contractions feel like menstrual cramps which is normal. I got leg cramps at night when I was in bed put if yours aren't going away I would at least call my ob to mention it.

Answer 10

When you yourself have experienced that unpleasant issue of sciatica for a couple of months or years then is the time to improve that with the eBook of Glen Johnson, Sciatica SOS from here https://tr.im/ZZQg2 .
Sciatica SOS program objectives the sciatica's origin triggers by utilizing just natural techniques and consequently, the chance for any side effect is minimal.
Sciatica SOS manual features a really easy to understand the content. It does not include any confusing recommendations or complicated vocabulary, and you are able to integrate that treatment in to your everyday life easy.
Glen Johnson also offers valuable bonuses in the Sciatica SOS package. They're five advantage guides alongside life time revisions, benefit you will find that they're very useful.