Causes
of Cramping During Your First Trimester
1.
Implantation cramping - Some women will experience cramping
upon implantation. Implantation
usually occurs 8-10 days after ovulation. You should not experience
implantation cramping after a positive pregnancy test, however
many a woman has experienced cramping only to find that she
is indeed pregnant shortly there after.
2.
Stretching uterus - As your body prepares for it's new baby
your uterus will stretch and expand. The ligaments that support
the uterus will stretch and with this stretching may cause
mild cramps.
3.
Miscarriage - Cramping during early pregnancy, especially
accompanied by spotting or bleeding, is a warning sign of
a possible miscarriage.
4.
Ectopic pregnancy - Ectopic
pregnancy is a serious condition and requires
immediate medical attention. Signs of an ectopic pregnancy
include cramping and abdominal pain (particularly on one side),
spotting, or bleeding.
5.
Other causes of cramping during early pregnancy - constipation
or gas pains. Pregnant women often have problems with constipation.
This can lead to uncomfortable cramping as well.
Causes
of Cramping During Your Second & Third Trimester
1.
Round ligament pain - The infamous round ligament pain strikes
pregnant women often in their second and third trimester.
As in early pregnancy the uterus continues to stretch and
grow. As the uterus expands the ligaments stretch to support
it. Mild cramping may occur.
2.
Preterm labor - Cramping, mild or severe, diarrhea, and back
pain can all be indicators of preterm
labor.
3.
Braxton Hicks contractions - In the second and third trimester
pregnant women will often have Braxton
Hicks contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions
are the irregular intermittent contractions that occur during
pregnancy.
4.
Labor - During early
labor cramping and back pain are common symptoms.
Because
normal cramping can be hard to differentiate from a sign of
danger, we recommend discussing any cramping with your doctor.
