What could be the reason for muscle twitching all over the body in a 9-month-pregnant woman?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old female and nine months pregnant. For the last three months, I have been having muscle twitching all over my body. It generally jumps from one place to another, one twitch per location only, and when I move, it disappears. However, one time only, I saw my toe twitching a few times (3 to 4 twitches). Initially, I ignored it, but now I am worried that it could be ALS. My calcium, vitamin D, and potassium levels were checked. They are normal, I have an existing hypothyroid condition, but my TSH and T4 are all good. Last week I have diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency, and my magnesium level is on the border (lower level). I have no muscle weakness or cramps so far. Can you please tell me what could cause widespread muscle twitching like this? Is it true that ALS is usually in one area, then spreads, and is accompanied by weakness always? Or can weakness come after months? Could this be pregnancy related?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Muscle twitches all over the body, in your case, are most likely benign and due to your pregnancy condition. What you are experiencing is most likely to be muscle cramps than twitches. Muscle cramps during pregnancy are common discomforts experienced by many expecting mothers. Most muscle cramps during pregnancy occur in the lower extremities, particularly in the calves. A muscle cramp is an involuntary contraction of a muscle or group of muscles that happens abruptly and is most commonly experienced at night.

Muscle cramps during pregnancy are commonly due to the following reasons.

1. Overuse (carrying the extra weight from pregnancy or exercise).

2. Dehydration.

3. Change in blood flow or circulation.

4. Lack of stretching before exercise or extensive use.

5. Nerve compression.

6. Lack of minerals (potassium, calcium, or magnesium).

I suggest you relax and concentrate on your nutrition during pregnancy. The cramps should subside after delivery.

Thank you.