Muscle cramps during pregnancy refer to sudden and painful contractions of muscles, often occurring at night, sometimes causing the individual to wake up due to the intensity of pain. Muscle spasms can be so severe that they limit daily activities and movements. Although the exact cause of muscle cramps during pregnancy is not fully understood, it is likely due to an imbalance between the absorption and excretion of electrolytes like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B, E, and C, as well as disturbances in the activity of spinal motor neurons.

One of the common conditions that can cause acquired muscle spasms is pregnancy. Studies show that about half of pregnant women complain of leg cramps, especially at night. These spasms are more prominent during the second half of pregnancy (after the 20th week).

Factors that predispose to muscle cramps include:

• Impaired blood flow to the lower limbs
• Imbalance between absorption and excretion of electrolytes
• Vitamin excretion

Furthermore, during pregnancy, glomerular filtration and the consequent urinary excretion of calcium increase. Also, inadequate dietary intake of calcium and magnesium, coupled with the fetus’s daily calcium requirements and its absorption through the mother, leads to a reduction in maternal blood calcium levels. To counter this decrease, the parathyroid hormone secreted from the parathyroid gland, along with vitamin D from the fetus, increases. As a result, the serum calcium level remains unchanged, even though the reduced concentration of albumin in the blood shows lower serum calcium levels.

Since poor dietary habits and negligence towards maternal health can contribute to the intensification of muscle cramps, proper prenatal counseling, an appropriate diet, and recommendations for modifying harmful behaviors can be effective in alleviating muscle spasms and ensuring maternal health.

The magnesium B6 product from Pararin Pars Company is designed to reduce muscle cramps in individuals, especially pregnant women, helping improve muscle spasms and the health of skeletal and cardiac muscles.

Muscle cramps occur when muscles experience severe and involuntary contractions.

Typically, cramps occur when:

• A muscle crosses two joints. The most common areas where muscle spasms occur include the back of the calf, the sole of the foot, the front of the thigh, the back of the thigh, and the lower back.
• If a person is deficient in minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium in their diet, they will gradually experience muscle cramps.
• Prolonged and irregular sitting, intense physical activity, excessive pressure on muscles, poor circulation, and a poor diet lacking fiber are factors that contribute to muscle cramps.
• Generally, if blood flow to muscles stops, or if the body’s electrolyte levels like magnesium, calcium, and potassium decrease, or if dehydration occurs, the likelihood of muscle cramps increases.
• Intense physical activity or lifting heavy objects can compress and weaken the nerves of the spine, which may increase the chance of muscle cramps during activity or sudden changes in posture.

Magnesium in the diet or as a supplement helps improve the function of the parathyroid hormone, which in turn increases calcium absorption into bones. Furthermore, the balance between calcium and magnesium reduces:

• Spontaneous contractions
• Prevents calcium deposition

Taking supplements that contain magnesium and vitamin B6 helps:

• Improve bone density
• Prevent muscle spasms in individuals

Muscle cramps can occur at any age, depending on the level of physical activity. Therefore, to prevent muscle cramps, individuals should consume a diet rich in magnesium, calcium, and potassium, as failing to meet daily needs can result in muscle cramps.

Natural sources of these minerals include various fruits, leafy vegetables, and legumes. Additionally, taking related supplements can reduce the likelihood of muscle cramps.