Diagnosing Early Pregnancy Cramping
If your doctor is concerned about pregnancy complications, they will ask you questions about the intensity and duration of your cramping. They may also perform any of the following tests in order to determine the cause of your pain:
These tests will help your doctor evaluate the health of your pregnancy.
Is It Normal To Have Cramps 6 Weeks Pregnant
At six weeks pregnant, slight cramping can be normal. It’s a sign your uterus and the surrounding tissues are expanding to make room for your baby. If you feel pain more severe than usual period cramping, especially if accompanied by a fever or diarrhea, contact your doctor immediately. Morning sickness.
Constipation And Trapped Wind
You probably know what constipation and trapped wind feels like. Unfortunately, it can get worse during pregnancy – the culprit is usually hormonal changes that slow down the whole digestive process. To combat wind and constipation, try drinking lots of water, eating fibre-rich foods, or talking to your doctor or midwife about taking something to get things moving again.
Recommended Reading: Lasik Eye Surgery While Pregnant
Signs And Symptoms Of Pregnancy Cramps
It is important to be able to tell the difference between normal early pregnancy cramps and cramping that may point to pregnancy complications. The following types of pain are normal early pregnancy symptoms:
Implantation pain
In the earliest stage of pregnancy, you may experience implantation pain. This is when the fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Pain generally occurs around the time when your period would normally begin. It may be accompanied by light spotting.
Implantation pain feels much like a mild menstrual cramp. You may experience an aching or pulling sensation in your lower abdomen. The duration of the pain and/or spotting differs between people. Many people experience no pain. Some experience only a few brief twinge, while others may have mild and intermittent pain for several days.
First trimester cramps
During the first trimester, your uterus and the supporting muscles and ligaments begin to stretch. You may experience occasional cramps. Your pain should be relatively mild and infrequent. It may be more pronounced when you cough, sneeze, or adjust your position.
Early pregnancy loss
If you experience cramping in your pelvic area, lower back, or abdomen, these may be signs of a miscarriage. This cramping will often be accompanied by vaginal bleeding that may start as a brownish discharge. Initial bleeding may be light. Heavy bleeding may indicate the presence of pregnancy tissue passing from the body.
Ectopic pregnancy
Dont Let Cramps And Back Pain Ruin Your Pregnancy Experience
We understand that cramping and lower back pain in early pregnancy can be confusing, painful, and stressful. Despite this, however, it is important not to let those symptoms ruin the incredible experience youre in the middle of.
While its easy to get overwhelmed by whats happening with your body, the end result is really something to marvel at.
If youve experienced cramping and lower back pain during pregnancy, what types of pregnancy back pain relief did you use?
Don’t Miss: What Cause Pregnancy
My Stomach Feels Weirddoes Your Stomach Hurt In Early Pregnancy
It depends on what you mean by hurt.
In general, the kinds of pain youll experience in your belly or lower abdomen in early pregnancy are related to:
- Nausea usually happens between two and eight weeks after conception2
- Cramping these can feel similar to pre-menstrual cramps and can be a sign of implantation2
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort similar to PMS symptoms
Below I talk a little more about nausea, which is common in early pregnancy .
So in the sense of feeling nauseous, yes, your stomach can hurt. Some women also feel some light cramping at the very beginning of their pregnancy, which may or may not be accompanied by spotting . This usually occurs around the predicted time of the period or a couple of days before.
Serious Causes Of Abdominal Pain In Pregnancy
Most causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy are nothing to worry about, but some causes of abdominal pain need medical care right away. If you suspect you may be facing one of the following problems, get medical assistance immediately.
Appendicitis. Appendicitis is an infection of your appendix, which can happen even during pregnancy and needs immediate treatment. Appendicitis causes:
- Pain on your right side
- Stomach pain near your belly button
- Nausea
Read Also: Restylane While Pregnant
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Lower Back Pain In Early Pregnancy
Its not unusual to feel a little uneasy about cramping and lower back pain in early pregnancy. Thankfully, however, these troublesome symptoms are usually nothing to worry about.
According to the American Pregnancy Association, 50-70% of women experience low back pain in pregnancy that poses no risk to the pregnancy. And that doesnt mean that 30-50% of low back pain cases do indicate troubleplenty of women experience no pain at all!
Before you start to panic about the things you feel, its good to consider whether your cramping and back pain stems from one of these common causes:
What Stomach Pain And Cramps Should I Look Out For In Pregnancy
Most stomach pain and cramps in pregnancy are nothing to worry about. But there are some symptoms you should know about as they could be a sign of something more serious.
If you feel any of the following pains, even if you’re not experiencing any of the other symptoms listed, call your midwife, doctor or hospital immediately.
Severe pain on one side of the lower stomach in early pregnancyThis pain could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. Other symptoms may include:
- pain in the tip of your shoulder
- brown discharge
Severe cramps in your stomach with or without bleeding that lasts for several hours This could be a sign of a miscarriage or placental abruption.
Regular painful contractions/cramps before 37 weeksThis could be a sign of premature labour, especially if you also have:
- either a slow trickle or a gush of clear or pinkish fluid from the vagina or any increase in vaginal discharge
- backache thats unusual for you
- cramps like strong period pains
- a feeling of pressure in the lowest part of your stomach .
Severe pain in your stomach that doesnt go away This pain could be a sign of placental abruption. Other symptoms may include:
- tenderness when you press your stomach
- back pain with or without bleeding.
Pain in the upper stomach
- a sudden increase in swelling in your face, hands or feet
- a very bad headache or a dull headache that wont go away
- problems with your vision, such as blurring or flashing lights
- vomiting or just generally feeling unwell.
You May Like: Is Kinesio Tape Safe For Pregnancy
Common Causes Of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
Some abdominal aches and pains during pregnancy are quite common and generally pose no threat to you and your baby.
- Round Ligament Pain: This can be characterized by a sharp stabbing pain when you change positions, or it can also be an achy, dull, lingering pain. Round ligament pain is caused by the two large ligaments that run from your uterus to your groin. As the uterus grows, these ligaments are stretched and create discomfort. This pain is generally reported in the second trimester, and considered to be harmless. Read the full Round Ligament Pain article.
- Gas and Constipation: Gas during pregnancy is caused by increased levels of progesterone. As more of this hormone is released, your gastrointestinal tract slows down, which makes food travel more slowly. Drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, exercising, and using stool softeners are excellent ways to combat excessive gas and constipation. Learn more about Constipation during Pregnancy.
- Common Discomforts: In addition to those listed above, there are several other common abdominal discomforts that can be experienced during pregnancy and are generally non-threatening. Your growing uterus, stomach viruses, kidney stones, fibroids, and food sensitivities are all valid forms of harmless abdominal pain.
What Symptoms Do You Feel When Your Pregnant
The most common early signs and symptoms of pregnancy might include:
- Missed period. If you’re in your childbearing years and a week or more has passed without the start of an expected menstrual cycle, you might be pregnant. …
- Tender, swollen breasts. …
- Nausea with or without vomiting. …
- Increased urination. …
- Fatigue.
Also Check: Can You Get Lasik While Pregnant
Reasons For Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy First Trimester
After an egg is fertilized, it latches on to the endometrium from where the amniotic sac and placenta form to support the growing fetusu The endometrium is a uterine lining that covers the whole uterus and some parts of the fallopian tube as welll When the fertilized egg falls on the fallopian tubes, the fetus will then start to burrow into the surrounding tissue and cause massive bleedingn This will eventually result in something called a tubal abortion where the fetus is then expellede In most cases of a miscarriage, this is what happens and it is a risk that nearly every woman faces in her pregnancyc Another cause of abdominal pain during the first trimester is a spontaneous miscarriageg This is something that can occur when there is a chromosomal problem with the fetus and the body will subsequently terminate the pregnancyc This is nearly always the case when there is a defective chromosome from one of the parents or when the pregnancy is attempted later in life, especially in the late thirties and fortiese This is the bodys own way of regulating embryonic growth and since some defects cannot be corrected the pregnancy is usually terminatede
When Should Cramps During Pregnancy Be Worrisome
New moms to be may feel a jolt of fear when they experience cramps during pregnancy. You might have it in your head that youre in the middle of a miscarriage. In reality, most cramping during pregnancy is actually normal and is something that occurs during all three trimesters. Its important to know why they happen.
Also Check: Vagisil During Pregnancy
Pregnancy Stomach Pain And Discomfort
Nausea during pregnancy is normal and usually nothing to be concerned about. Morning sickness can begin as early as 2 to 4 weeks following fertilization, peak around 9 to 16 weeks, and typically subside at around 22 weeks gestation.
Symptoms of morning sickness include nausea and vomiting. Many women with morning sickness don’t need medication however, prescription medications are available that treat morning sickness like Diclegis.
If you experience cramping or pain in the stomach this may be a sign of digestive issues but isn’t likely to be a miscarriage symptom. Digestive problems are common during pregnancy but call your doctor right away if your stomach pain leads to flu-like symptoms that go beyond your typical morning sickness.
Pregnant women are prone to food poisoning and other infections in the GI tract. Some infections can cause complications for the baby even if they aren’t especially dangerous for non-pregnant individuals, so it’s good to be checked out if you suspect you might be sick.
How Do I Know If I Have A Uti
- you have to pee a lot
- you feel pain or burning during urination
- your urine is cloudy or blood-tinged
- your lower back or pelvic area hurts
- you experience fever, nausea, or vomiting
A UTI might resolve itself within a couple of days, but it can usually be quickly and easily treated with pregnancy-safe antibiotics. When you’re pregnant, you are advised not to wait, since UTIs are managed more aggressively during pregnancy to avoid complications. It’s best to see your doctor as soon as possible.
Read Also: Using Vagisil During Pregnancy
Are Cramps During Pregnancy Normal
Some abdominal cramping and stomach pain in pregnancy is common. Early pregnancy cramps can be linked to many run-of-the-mill pregnancy symptoms, including constipation or increased blood flow to the uterus.
Later on in pregnancy, pregnancy pains could be linked to normal symptoms like Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain.
Sometimes, however, abdominal pain during pregnancy can be a sign of a condition that requires medical attention, like a urinary tract infection, miscarriage, preterm labor or preeclampsia. Its always safest to about any symptom that concerns you.
The following are common causes of abdominal pain and cramps during pregnancy that can occur during any trimester:
When To Call The Doctor
Don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you feel like something’s not quite right. “If you have anything that you’re concerned about, you should contact your OB-GYN or be seen,” says Rebecca Shiffman, M.D., director of Maternal Fetal Medicine at Lincoln Hospital in Bronx, New York. “That’s what we’re here forto provide answers to pregnant women and to provide whatever care they need.” Always call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms:
- Abdominal pain with or without bleeding before 12 weeks
- Bleeding or strong cramping
- More than four contractions in an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal pain
Also Check: Is It Bad To Donate Plasma While Pregnant
What Do Early Pregnancy Cramps Feel Like
While some women might be more sensitive to pregnancy cramps, theyre not usually a significant problem.
If youre wondering how many women describe what early pregnancy cramps feel like, however, many claim theyre comparable to mild period pain.
Theyre also often described as small twinges or pulling sensations in the back, sides, or stomach.
And if its round ligament pain, it can be acute and intensefor just a second. That pain can feel sharp or like a muscle pulling.
Abdominal Aches And Pains During Pregnancy
So many new sensations come along with pregnancy, and not all of them are pleasant. One of the pains you might experience? Abdominal discomfort. During pregnancy, your uterus expands to accommodate your growing baby, which means that some abdominal achiness is to be expected. Here are some of the types and causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy, plus tips for relief, and information on when you should call your provider.What does abdominal pain typically feel like?
Abdominal pain associated with pregnancy can feel dull, aching, throbbing, pulsing, or sharp, and it can happen in short bursts or persist for long periods of time. It can also be worse in one area of your body, like the sides of your stomach.
What does this sort of abdominal pain typically feel like?
What causes these aches and pains?
What can help?
If youre suffering from abdominal pains, here are a few tips that may be able to provide you with some relief:
But how can you know whats normal and when should you call your provider?
There are a few causes of pregnancy-related abdominal pain that can indicate complications. If certain symptoms accompany your abdominal pain, including vaginal bleeding, back pain, body swelling, fever, vomiting, or painful urination, or if the pain becomes sharper or is so severe that it becomes difficult to function, you should contact your health care provider right away.
You May Like: Pregnancy Side Effects Week By Week
Upper Abdomen Or Stomach Pain In Pregnancy
Upper abdomen pain under the ribs is common in later pregnancy because of the growing baby and the uterus pushing up under the ribs. But, if this pain is persistent or severe, especially on the right side, it could be a sign of preeclampsia . Other symptoms of preeclampsia may include:
- A sudden increase in swelling in the face, hands or feet
- Severely bad headache or a dull headache that does not go away
- Problems with vision, like blurred vision or seeing flashing lights
- Nausea or vomiting
Pre-eclampsia mostly develops around 20 weeks of pregnancy.
When To See The Doctor For Early Pregnancy Cramping
You should see a doctor if you have any of the following symptoms during your first trimester:
- Severe and long-lasting pain
- Cramping accompanied by fever, discharge, or dizziness
- Cramping and heavy bleeding
- Cramping along with pain in the shoulder or neck
You should also speak to your doctor about any concerns with cramping during your regularly scheduled appointments.
People over the age of 40 are more likely to experience early pregnancy loss. They should be particularly attentive to potential symptoms.
Read Also: Can You Donate Plasma While Pregnant
Stomach Pain In Pregnancy
Stomach pains or cramps are common in pregnancy. They’re usually nothing to worry about, but they can sometimes be a sign of something more serious that needs to be checked.
It’s probably nothing to worry about if the pain is mild and goes away when you change position, have a rest, do a poo or pass wind. But if you have stomach pains and are worried, call your midwife or maternity hospital.
Harmless stomach pains, which can be dull or sharp, may be caused by:
- ligament pain this can feel like a sharp cramp on one side of your lower tummy
- constipation which is common in pregnancy
- trapped wind
When Should You See A Doctor With Lower Abdominal Pain In Early Pregnancy
Another common cause includes a urinary tract infection. So, if you feel stinging/burning when urinating or are going for a wee more frequently than usual, then Philippa advises seeing a doctor.
She adds that although having some discomfort is common and can be normal, its also worth seeing a doctor if:
- you are having bleeding with the pain, even if it is light
- the pain is more on one side or the other rather than central
- it is severe pain
- you feel dizzy/lightheaded.
Docs will then arrange a scan to check for miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Dr Philippa Kaye is a London GP who has written several books on pregnancy and childcare including The First Five Years. Visit her official site or .
You May Like: Can You Donate Plasma While Pregnant
