Pregnancy Cramps: What Do They Mean?

378

Cramps can be defined as the tugging sensations on either side or both sides of your abdomen. They normally occur during the first trimester due to changes that are consistent with the development of your baby.

Cramping is actually a symptom that occurs during most pregnancies but is not considered when detecting early pregnancy. Often, cramping is part and parcel of the pregnancy journey; however, in some instances, you should be concerned.

pregnancy cramps

What Causes Cramps During Pregnancy?

Cramping occurs with the expansion of the uterus during pregnancy. This causes its muscles and ligaments to stretch. While such cramping is manageable, it becomes more noticeable when you cough, sneeze or change your body position.

Cramping in the second trimester is caused by round ligament pain. When this ligament stretches, you may feel either a dull ache or a sharp stabbing pain in your lower abdomen.

Relatively minor cramping that occurs once in a while is normal and should not raise concern. Other causes of normal cramping in pregnancy may include bloating, gas, sexual intercourse and constipation.

When Should I Be Concerned About Cramping During Pregnancy?

Cramping is relatively normal in pregnancy, serious abdominal pain during pregnancy may be caused by the following:

  • Miscarriage – Some symptoms of miscarriage include cramping (ranging from mild to sharp pains) and vaginal spotting, although some women who experience this go on to have completely normal and healthy pregnancies. If you experience severe cramps and heavy bleeding, it is advised that you contact your doctor immediately.
  • Ectopic pregnancy – This is a type of pregnancy that occurs when implantation of the fertilized egg occurs outside the uterus itself. Such pregnancies may cause severe cramping and require medical attention as soon as possible.
  • Preeclampsia – Preeclampsia is a condition whose symptoms include high blood pressure and the presence of protein in your urine. This medical condition can cause intense cramping in your upper abdomen.

cramps

  • Urinary tract infections – UTIs may be accompanied by experiencing pain during urination and having lower abdominal pain.
  • Preterm labor – Labor is considered preterm if it occurs before 37 weeks. It may cause increased pressure on your abdomen, abdominal pain and cramping
  • Placental abruption – This is the separation of the placenta from the uterus during the pregnancy before the baby is born. Its symptom is painful cramps that persist and is life-threatening. In the event that this happens, you should contact your doctor immediately.
When Should I Call the Doctor?

You should call your doctor if you experience any of the following types of cramping:

  • Cramping that is accompanied by shoulder and neck pain.
  • Severe persistent pain that doesn’t go away.
  • Lower abdominal pain, that is accompanied by contractions.
  • Vaginal cramping, discharge, bleeding, dizziness and gastrointestinal symptoms.