Cramps And Pregnancy

Important Information Pertaining to Cramps and Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, cramps and pregnancy is frightening, whether minor or serious. However, you need to know that cramping does not always mean that something is wrong. In fact, during the pregnancy, you will likely experience cramps of some degree, which occurs as the uterus stretches to accommodate the growing fetus but because cramps could be a sign of something serious, you need to understand the difference.

Cramps and Pregnancy – Early Months

During the early months of being pregnant, cramping could be associated with a number of things to include those listed below:

Implantation – Some women will have slight cramping about 10 days after ovulation, which is normal and a time when the egg is implanting to the wall of the uterus.
Uterus Stretching – As mentioned, as the fetus begins to grow, the uterus will stretch to provide adequate room and when this occurs, some cramping would be expected.
Miscarriage – Sadly, miscarriage could be the cause of cramps and pregnancy, more so with first-time pregnancies. Typically, if you were having a miscarriage, you would have both cramping and bleeding.
Ectopic Pregnancy – Also known as a tubal pregnancy, this occurs when the egg becomes implanted in the fallopian tubes rather than the uterus. This condition is extremely dangerous and any signs of severe cramping, especially on one side, along with spotting or bleeding should prompt a trip to the emergency room.
Miscellaneous – Remember that your body is going through many changes so cramps and pregnancy could be something as simple as gas or constipation but any concern whatsoever should be discussed with your doctor.

Cramps and Pregnancy – Latter Months

Cramping can also be associated with pregnancy in the latter months, such as:

Round Ligament Pain – Often, during the last trimester of pregnancy women will experience what is known as round ligament pain. In this case, not only has the uterus stretched out to accommodate the growing fetus but also ligaments, which produces mild to moderate bouts of cramping.
Braxton Hicks – Known as “practice contractions”, cramps and pregnancy involving Braxton Hicks is common. Unlike real contractions, these practice contractions are irregular.

Preterm Labor – Obviously, if you were to go into preterm labor, it means your body is trying to deliver the baby before due. Cramps could be mild or extreme and often, lower back pain is coupled with diarrhea.

Actual Labor – When you first go into labor, cramping is expected, which may or may not include low back pain. With real labor, mild cramping would become more regular and intense.

As you can see, cramps and pregnancy go hand-in-hand. Sometimes, cramps are simply a part of the natural process while other times, cramps are a sign of impending danger. Therefore, if you have any questions or concerns, regardless of the month you are in or the severity of the cramping, you should call your doctor. That way, if the doctor has any concern, appropriate actions could be taken for your health and the health of the baby.