Stomach Cramps in Early Pregnancy

Though most women experience stomach cramps during menstruation, stomach cramps in early pregnancy can make a woman apprehensive. So, is cramping normal in early pregnancy? Though mild cramping is quite common during the first trimester, if you are experiencing painful stomach cramps in early pregnancy, you must consult a gynecologist soon.

Several changes take place in a woman's body due to the fertilization of the egg and implantation in the uterus. In the initial stages, the uterus contracts in order to expel the fertilized egg or zygote. Such contractions are responsible for stomach cramps in early pregnancy.

This implantation cramping stops once the fertilized egg implants itself on the uterine wall successfully. Sometimes, cramps might be accompanied by inconsequential vaginal bleeding or spotting. Mild cramps and spotting is not a cause of serious concern, if the bleeding is very heavy and is also accompanied by pain, you must consult a doctor immediately.

Stomach cramps in early pregnancy are also caused due to the expansion of the uterus. The ligaments that support the uterus have to stretch in order to support the expanding uterus. Generally stretching of ligaments is responsible for such stomach cramps in the first trimester.

Stomach cramps might also occur after sexual activity. Orgasm can bring on stomach cramps due to an increase in the level of blood flowing to the pelvic region.

Lower stomach cramps in early pregnancy can also be caused due to indigestion. Since women change their diets during pregnancy, it can cause indigestion, gas and constipation. These stomach problems can also cause cramps and abdominal pain in early pregnancy.

Though it is normal to have stomach cramps in early pregnancy, if you are experiencing painful cramps and heavy bleeding, it might even indicate a miscarriage.

Painful stomach cramps could also be a symptom of ectopic pregnancy. This is caused when the fertilized egg does not attach itself on the uterine walls and gets implanted in the fallopian tube instead. As the fetus grows in the fallopian tube, it might cause severe pain.

Pregnant women who experience a stabbing pain on one side of their lower abdomen, along with dizziness, headaches and pain in the pelvis region, need to consult a gynecologist immediately. An ultrasound might help in diagnosing whether the fetus is growing within the uterus or not. If left untreated, this condition might rupture the fallopian tubes.

Another serious condition responsible for causing stomach cramps is placental abruption. When the placenta detaches itself from the uterus, stomach cramps, back pain and uterine contractions may ensue. This condition can occur anytime during pregnancy.

Though mild cramping in early pregnancy is generally not a cause of serious concern, if the cramps are painful and are accompanied with symptoms such as tenderness of the belly, heavy bleeding and pink or gray tissue clots in the discharge, you need to consult a doctor immediately.

So, this was some information on stomach cramps in early pregnancy. If you are experiencing painful cramps in the first trimester, don't ignore them, consult a gynecologist soon. Since a life is growing within you, take special care of yourself and your baby. Stay healthy!