I get them too, so it may not be female related. I take a variety of vitamins everyday, but still get them.

For me, it may be a lack of salt. I almost never add salt to anything, and don't eat much stuff that has it. I've been trying to remember to consume a bit more.

But, what has helped is an acupressure technique my wife read about a few weeks ago in a "Woman's Day" magazine. You pinch your upper lip between your forefinger and thumb for 30 seconds. It's worked every time I've tried it.

On a hike this past weekend the guy I was with started having a leg cramp while we were hiking. I told him about the acupressure and he did it, and his cramp went away quickly and he wasn't bothered with them again during our hike.

I know they can be vicious so I hope this helps you too.