You wake up in the morning, finally feeling less nauseous – and suddenly everything spins. Or at night, a piercing calf cramp jolts you awake. Welcome to the 13th week of pregnancy: nausea fades, but your body continues to adjust. The good news? You're not alone, and there are specific ways to find relief now.

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Why Your Body Feels Different Now

The 13th week of pregnancy signals the start of the second trimester – a phase many refer to as the "golden time" of pregnancy. Typical early pregnancy complaints like nausea and fatigue noticeably diminish now. Your body has adjusted to hormonal changes, and many women report a surge of energy.

However, while some discomforts disappear, others may arise or intensify. Your blood volume increases by up to 50 percent, your circulation is working overtime, and your growing uterus changes your center of gravity. All of this can lead to dizziness, circulation problems, calf cramps, or back pain.

The Most Common Complaints in Week 13

  • Dizziness and circulatory issues: Especially when getting up or in warm rooms
  • Calf cramps: Often at night or after prolonged standing
  • Back pain: Due to the altered posture
  • Constipation: Hormone-induced slowing of digestion
  • Gum bleeding: Due to increased blood flow in the tissue
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Gently Managing Dizziness and Circulatory Problems

Due to sudden drops in blood pressure – for example, when you stand up too quickly from a sitting or lying position – you may still experience slight dizziness at this time. Your body needs to learn to efficiently distribute the increased blood volume.

Immediate Measures for Dizziness

  • Get up slowly: Sit on the edge of the bed, wait 30 seconds, then stand up
  • Wear compression stockings: They support the return of blood to the heart
  • Stay hydrated: At least 2-3 liters of water daily stabilize circulation
  • Eat regularly: Small meals every 2-3 hours keep blood sugar levels steady
  • Fresh air: Ventilate regularly and avoid overheated rooms

A proven trick: If you feel dizzy, tighten your leg muscles several times in succession. This pumps blood back to the heart and stabilizes your circulation within seconds.

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Calf Cramps – When the Legs Rebel at Night

Sudden, painful calf cramps are among the most unpleasant pregnancy complaints. They usually occur at night and can jolt you out of sleep. The reason: your increased need for magnesium and other minerals, as well as the altered blood flow.

Prevention and Relief

Calf cramps can be alleviated with magnesium supplements. However, never take them without consulting your gynecologist. Your doctor can determine the right dosage and need.

  • Magnesium-rich diet: Whole grains, nuts, bananas, leafy green vegetables, legumes
  • Contrast showers: Stimulate circulation and prevent cramps
  • Gentle stretching exercises: Stretch your calves for 2-3 minutes before bed
  • Stay hydrated: Dehydration promotes muscle cramps
  • Comfortable shoes: Avoid high heels that additionally stress the calf muscles

Acute help for calf cramps: Pull your toes towards you, stretch the leg out, and gently massage the calf. Then get up and walk a few steps – this usually relieves the cramp within 1-2 minutes.

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Preventing and Relieving Back Pain

Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity forward. To compensate, many pregnant women tend to arch their backs – which in turn leads to tension and pain in the lower back.

Back-Friendly Everyday Tips

  • Conscious posture: Tilt your pelvis slightly forward, shoulders back, gently pull in your belly button
  • Correct lifting technique: Bend your knees, do not lift from your back
  • Side-sleeping position: Placing a pillow between your knees relieves your back and hips
  • Pregnancy yoga: Strengthens the core muscles and promotes flexibility
  • Heat: A warm (not hot!) bath or cherry stone pillow relaxes tense muscles
  • Swimming: Relieves the spine through buoyancy in water

Physiotherapy or osteopathy can also be very effective. Many health insurance companies cover the costs of special pregnancy fitness classes – ask your insurer!

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Other Complaints – And What Really Helps

Constipation

The hormone progesterone slows down your digestion. Combined with the pressure of the growing uterus on the intestines, this often leads to constipation.

  • High-fiber diet: Whole grains, flaxseeds, dried fruits, vegetables
  • Drink plenty: A glass of lukewarm water in the morning stimulates digestion
  • Exercise: Just 20-30 minutes of walking daily can make a difference
  • Probiotics: Natural yogurt or fermented foods support gut flora

Gum Bleeding

The increased blood flow makes your gums more sensitive. Pay special attention now to thorough but gentle oral hygiene.

  • Soft toothbrush: Switch to a brush with soft bristles
  • Regular flossing: Removes bacteria between your teeth
  • Professional dental cleaning: Many dentists offer special pregnancy prophylaxis
  • Chamomile rinses: Soothe inflamed gums

When to Seek Medical Help

Most pregnancy complaints are normal and harmless. Nevertheless, there are warning signs where you should contact your doctor immediately:

  • Severe, persistent dizziness with faintness or vision disturbances
  • Sudden, severe headaches especially in combination with vision disturbances
  • Strong abdominal pain or cramps
  • Any kind of bleeding
  • Fever over 38.5°C
  • Severe swelling in hands, feet, or face

Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to ask too often than too little. Your midwife or gynecologist is there for exactly such questions.

Your Body is Doing Remarkable Things

The 13th week of pregnancy is a milestone. Your body has already achieved enormous adaptations, and many of the early complaints are now subsiding. The new challenges – whether dizziness, calf cramps, or back pain – are signs that your baby is growing and thriving.

With the right strategies, you can significantly alleviate these complaints and enjoy your pregnancy more consciously. Listen to your body, take breaks, and don’t hesitate to ask for help – whether from your partner, your family, or medical professionals.

You are doing great. Every day brings you closer to the moment you hold your baby in your arms. Until then, take good care of yourself – because only if you feel well, your baby will feel well.