What Are Some Uncommon Signs Of Early Pregnancy
The first week of the pregnancy is when the egg has been released from the ovum, the egg then combines with sperm and conception occurs. Progesterone and estrogen hormones, which are a part of the normal menstrual cycle, rise dramatically. A new hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin begins to be produced as well. These hormones promote the increase in blood flow to the uterus and prepare the uterus lining for the implantation of the fertilized egg.
In the early stages of pregnancy, the female may be unaware of the pregnancy. The woman may experience symptoms similar to a menstrual period. The first week of pregnancy usually does not cause any noticeable symptoms and may vary in different females. Some common and uncommon symptoms include
Pregnancy symptoms are different for every woman. Some women may notice symptoms, such as spotting or a headache, during the first week of pregnancy. Others may only experience a missed period. Some women will have no symptoms at all.
Is Cramping Normal In Early Pregnancy
Causes of cramping include uterus growth and muscle and ligaments stretching.
Cramping during early pregnancy is normal. The reasons for cramping change along the course of pregnancy.
First-trimester pregnancy cramping is because of hormonal changes and implantation.
Pregnancy cramps in the second trimester are because of growth of uterus.
The round ligament pain is common during the second trimester of pregnancy. It feels like a muscle stretching like a rubber band around the baby bump.
In the third trimester, the labor contractions or Braxton Hicks can cause cramping.
Other causes of cramping during pregnancy include bloating, sexual intercourse and gas. Constipation also causes cramping in early pregnancy.
Can Sex In The First 12 Weeks Cause Miscarriage
If this is your biggest fear, youre not alone. So lets get right to the good news: In a typical pregnancy, sex is safe throughout all 9 months, including the first trimester.
Unless your healthcare provider has told you not to have sex, theres no reason to avoid it regardless of how far along you are. The muscles surrounding your uterus as well as the amniotic fluid inside it help protect your baby during sex, and the mucus plug at the opening of your cervix prevents germs from passing through.
Theres a higher chance of miscarriage in general during the first trimester compared with the other trimesters. Sadly, about 10 to 15 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, with the majority of them happening in the first 13 weeks but its important to note that sex isnt a cause.
About one half of miscarriages happen because of chromosomal abnormalities that develop during fertilization of the embryo something that has nothing to do with anything you did. Many causes are unknown.
Per the Cleveland Clinic, miscarriages can also be caused by a variety of risk factors, including:
- maternal infections and diseases
- use of certain medications, like Accutane
- some lifestyle choices, like smoking and drug use
- reproductive disorders that interfere with fertility, like endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome
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When Should I Be Concerned About Cramping During Pregnancy
While cramping can be common, there are some serious causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy:
- Ectopic pregnancy This type of pregnancy happens when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus. Ectopic pregnancies can cause painful cramping and is a serious medical condition that must be treated by your doctor.
- Miscarriage Vaginal spotting accompanied by mild or sharp cramping can be a sign of a miscarriage, although some pregnant women who have spotting and cramping can go on to have healthy pregnancies. If you have severe cramping and/or heavy bleeding, contact your doctor immediately.
- Preeclampsia -This is characterized by high blood pressure along with protein in your urine. Severe preeclampsia can cause intense pain in your upper abdomen.
- Preterm labor Increased pressure, abdominal pain, and cramping can be a sign of preterm labor if your cervix begins to dilate before 37 weeks.
- Urinary tract infections Lower abdominal pain and painful urination may be symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
- Placental abruption This occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus before the baby is born. This is a life-threatening condition and can be signaled by a painful cramp that does not go away. If this happens, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
How To Manage Uterus Pain In Early Pregnancy
Treatment for uterine pains depends on your symptoms. Mild uterine pain that goes away after a few minutes or hours is likely nothing to worry about.
You can treat mild uterine discomfort at home by taking a warm shower or bath, resting, and drinking plenty of water and other fluids. Tell your doctor about your symptoms, as they may recommend another form of treatment thats safe for your pregnancy.
Sharp, stabbing, or chronic pain along with symptoms like bleeding, shortness of breath, or fever or chills likely requires emergency medical care.
Let medical staff know youre pregnant and report any symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or faintness right away. The medical staff will assess your symptoms and may perform an ultrasound.
Seek help if youre experiencing sharp or chronic uterine pain along with other symptoms like:
- vaginal bleeding
- high fever
- chills
If the pain goes away on its own, it likely isnt a reason for concern, but you should still let your doctor know.
You should also let your doctor know about any mild uterine pain during pregnancy. They can decide if you need to be seen right away or if you can wait until your next scheduled prenatal appointment.
Also, tell your doctor if youre experiencing uterine pain along with spotting or bleeding. These may be symptoms of a miscarriage. Your doctor can assess your symptoms and determine next steps.
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Cramps In The Third Trimester
As your uterus continues to grow larger up until childbirth, abdominal cramps from stretching and growing may also continue to occur throughout pregnancy. You should experience the least amount of cramps during the second trimester. However, this is when your round ligamenta muscle that supports the uteruswill begin to stretch. During this time, it’s normal to feel sharp pains or dull aches in the lower abdomen.
If you are pregnant with multiples, expect some extra soreness or cramps during the second half of pregnancy as your body makes extra room for the babies. This final growth spurt usually doesn’t occur in a single pregnancy until the third trimester.
While some cramping is normal, be on the lookout for symptoms of preterm labor. These include dull backaches, intense pelvic pressure, blood or fluid from your vagina, cramps or contractions that increase in intensity and frequency, or more than five contractions or cramps in an hour.
What Is Cramping During Pregnancy
Cramping during pregnancy is experienced as pain in the pelvic region, specifically in the lower abdomen or back. This might feel comparable to period cramps, or it may be akin to a pulling sensation on the abdomen, either on one side or on both.
Cramping is a very common complaint during pregnancy, according to Elizabeth Livingston, M.D., a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Duke University Medical Center and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. However, she notes that abdominal pain is also something that is notoriously vague and subjective, which can make it challenging to know what the exact cause is and thus, whether its cause for concern.
Cramping is a rather general complaint and so nonspecific, says Dr. Livingston. When it comes to cramping, I would say context is everything. In general, we think of pregnancy in the first, second and third trimesters, and it means something different depending on the context of how far along a woman is.
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Follow My Babys Growth
If something feels out of the ordinary, contact your health care provider as soon as possible. Understanding the signs and symptoms of early pregnancy cramps, can help you figure out what is normal and when to call your health care provider.
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms during early pregnancy:
- Normal cramping pain Normal pregnancy cramps are very similar to period cramps, which are usually not very severe. In early pregnancy, you may experience short cramps in your lower abdomen.
- Light bleeding Light spotting during early pregnancy might be linked to implantation bleeding.
If youre not sure if youre pregnant and experience cramping along with nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and spotting, make sure to take a pregnancy test. These can be early symptoms of pregnancy.
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
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Cramping During Early Pregnancy: Are Cramps Normal
Your guide to tummy pain
Cramping during early pregnancy can be worrisome, but rest assured most occurrences are simply a regular part of growing a baby. Tummy cramps are common, especially during the first and second trimester as you body undergoes numerous changes to prepare for your baby.
Is cramping normal during pregnancy?Yes. Doctors have a few reasons that explain why women get cramps during pregnancy. One of the first occurrences of cramping happens during implantation of the fertislised egg. Implantation cramping, as its known, happens within eight to ten days after ovulation. Not all women will experience cramping, some will note a mild pulling or tingling feeling and this is often accompanied by spotting or bleeding.
The pregnancy hormone, progesterone, can relax the digestive muscles, leading to stomach cramps. Pregnant women can often expect other irritating side effects such as constipation and indigestion. As you enter the second trimester, around 12 or 13 weeks, you may experience some abdominal pain and this is due to the rapid expansion of the round ligament. This is the structure that supports the uterus and as it stretches you may feel a sharp pain or a dull ache in your lower abdomen.
Many women will worry that cramping is a sign of miscarriage, but cramping alone isnt an indication of pregnancy loss. If you experience severe cramping as well as bleeding and passing of fluid from your vagina, speak to your doctor immediately.
When Should I Call The Doctor
If you experience the following types of cramping, you should contact your doctor right away:
- Severe pain that does not go away
- Lower abdominal pain, accompanied by contractions
- Vaginal cramping, bleeding, discharge, gastrointestinal symptoms, and dizziness
- Cramping, along with pain in the shoulder and/or neck
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How Does Cramping In Early Pregnancy Feel
Cramping in early pregnancy feel like a downward tingling sensation. It is like as if someone is poking you inside your uterus. Later on, the cramps become a little intense as the membrane of egg fuses with endometrial lining. Gradually the embryo drills its path into the lining. After that, the cramping subsides.
Implantation cramps are not like menstrual cramping and last only for a day. During implantation, youll not feel the need for taking any painkillers.
It is important to keep stress away and stay calm during implantation. The embryo before implantation releases chemicals that are new for mother. This causes nausea and dizziness. It is better to avoid any strenuous work during implantation.
How To Deal With Diarrhea When Pregnant
Although diarrhea is nothing to fear, you need to know what causes the discomfort and how to make yourself feel better. I recommend that you drink plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration. Remember to stick to water or energy drinks rather on juice and milk.
Diarrhea will eventually subside within two days. The illness will not cause miscarriage, but if it stays longer than that, it could be a sign of infection or other serious causes. Do not let the case distress your pregnancy.
Here are some tips that may help you:
Besides the physical changes, other factors cause stomach cramps and diarrhea during pregnancy.
- Watch your diet. Avoid eating food that would further upset your stomach. Choose easy to digest food until you are well enough to go back to your usual diet.
- Never take anti-diarrhea medication unless prescribed by your physician. Take note that not all over-the-counter medications are safe for pregnant women.
- Observe proper personal hygiene. Loose stools can easily be the cause of UTI. Cleanliness can keep the germs from spreading.
I suggest getting help from your doctor if you have other symptoms like these:
- Diarrhea more than 2-3 days
- Fever
- Severe pain your abdomen and rectum
- Blood in your stool
- Signs that you are dehydrated
- Vomiting
- Pain in lower abdomen
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Cramps Accompanied By Bleeding/spotting
Some pregnant folks experience bleeding/spotting at different times during pregnancy, but unless your healthcare provider is aware always seek medical attention for any bleeding during pregnancy.
Its important to remember that lots of pregnant folks experience some sort of light vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy and go on to have a normal, healthy pregnancy. If you experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, its totally understandable to be nervous about it and you should definitely contact your healthcare provider or seek immediate medical attention if you experience any bleeding during a pregnancy.
While it can be scary, it is most likely nothing serious. If it is something serious, prompt medical treatment may prevent a loss.
Anyone For Gherkins And Custard
Are you getting cravings? Some women do, some dont. Pregnancy cravings are caused by hormonal changes affecting your senses of taste and smell. Some mums go off coffee and curries. Others crave cake or fruit. Try eating a balanced healthy diet. If you get any weird pregnancy cravings, like wanting to eat dirt, talk to your midwife or doctor, as you may have a dangerous condition called pica caused by a lack of iron.
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Cramping In Late Pregnancy
Cramping in the second or third trimester could be harmless or concerningit depends on the situation.
- Preterm labor: Cramps occurring at regular intervals may indicate preterm labor. More than six cramps or contractions in 1 hour, a change in vaginal discharge such as bright red vaginal bleeding, a sudden gush of clear fluid, a low, dull backache, or intense pelvic pressure are all possible signs. For any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
- Round ligament pain: You may experience shooting pains in the lower abdomen or around your hips due to a phenomenon called round ligament pain, which occurs as your body accommodates your growing uterus. These types of pains are normal and will pass, but you should discuss them with your doctor.
What You Need To Know About Cramping In Early Pregnancy
Symptoms can vary so much from pregnancy to pregnancy that its often hard to know what exactly is going on in there. If you find yourself noticing every twinge, cramp or ache, youre definitely not alone. What kind of pain is considered okay and when should you actually worry? Most of the time, cramping during early pregnancy is no cause for concern. In fact, it can even be a good thing. Heres what you need to know about cramping in early pregnancy, including whats typical and what you might want to talk to your healthcare provider about.
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When To See A Health Care Provider About Your Early Pregnancy Cramps
Although early pregnancy cramps are usually normal and not life threatening, its also important to see your health care provider if the cramps become severe. Your health care provider can rule out any conditions such as miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or infectious diseases that may affect you or your baby. Here are a few signs and symptoms to watch out for. Make sure to see your health care provider if you experience any of these:
- Bleeding If your cramps are accompanied by any amount of blood, consult your health care provider as soon as possible.
- Severe pain If you experience severe cramps that dont go away and are getting worse, head to the hospital immediately.
Stretching Of The Uterus
During the first weeks of pregnancy, you likely wont notice your uterus growing or expanding. But by the 12th week, your uterus stretches and grows to about the size of a grapefruit. If youre pregnant with twins or multiples, you may feel your uterus stretching sooner.
Symptoms of your uterus stretching may include twinges, aches, or mild discomfort in your uterine or lower abdominal region. This is a normal part of pregnancy and a sign that everything is progressing normally.
Watch for spotting or painful cramping. Report these symptoms to your doctor.
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Cramping Due To Hormones
Progesterone is one of the main hormones involved in a pregnancy. An increase in progesterone allows for the uterus to grow and stretch, and this stretching can lead to mild cramping.
Remember, the uterus is a muscle and just as when other muscles stretch and grow, this process can be a bit uncomfortable.
Relaxin is another hormone that increases during pregnancy. As the name suggests, relaxin helps the ligaments and soft tissue relax and stretch to make way for a growing uterus.
Relaxin is highest in the first trimester so its normal to experience cramps as a result of your ligaments and soft tissue becoming extra stretchy.
As with other muscles and ligaments in our bodies, stretching and pulling of ligaments around the uterus and pelvis can cause cramping.
