Don't let leg and uterine cramps ruin your day. When you're pregnant, you may feel cramping at any point in your pregnancy. As your body changes to accommodate your baby, your uterus may stretch, causing pain and discomfort in the upper legs and stomach. When you're menstruating, your uterus and legs may contract as you have your period. If your doctor approves, you can use stretching exercises to reduce the discomfort of uterine and leg cramping.
If You're Pregnant
Your doctor may recommend stretching exercises to reduce your discomfort during pregnancy. You may experience more leg cramps when you're pregnant because your body is carrying additional weight, causing muscle fatigue in the legs. Additionally, your uterus stretches, which may cause uterine cramping. In some cases, uterine cramping in the third trimester may be a signal that your labor is just around the corner. In addition to warm baths and rest, stretching may help soothe your cramps.
If You're Menstruating
When you're having your period, leg and stomach cramps may make you feel sick and uncomfortable. When your body sheds its uterine lining, it causes the uterus to contract, which may cause pain and cramping in the stomach and groin area. Additionally, leg and back cramps may occur, causing discomfort all over the body. In addition to using a heating pad and taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, stretching may ease menstrual cramping.
Lunging Leg Stretch
Stand up straight in front of a wall with your arms straight out. Take a step back so your elbows are straight and you are pressing against the wall. Take a step back with your right foot, so your left foot is directly in front of your right. Bend your left leg as you lower yourself into a lunge, keeping your right foot pressed flat on the ground. Hold for 30 seconds, and switch legs. Repeat as necessary to reduce leg pain.
Butterfly Uterus Stretch
Sit down on the ground with your back straight and your legs extended out in front of you. Bend your knees and rotate your legs until the soles of your feet are pressed against each other and your knees are pressed down toward the floor. Straighten your back as you breathe in. Bend over, bringing your head toward your ankles as you breathe out. Breathe in as you straighten your back again. Repeat, stretching a little more each time.
References
- BabyCenter: Leg Cramps During Pregnancy
- MayoClinic.org; What Causes Leg Cramps During Pregnancy and Can They Be Prevented?; Roger W. Harms, M.D.
- "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies"; Deborah Tkac; 1990
- March of Dimes: Abdominal Pain or Cramping
