Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
Some abdominal discomfort during pregnancy is normal, but it can sometimes signal a problem that warrants medical attention.
Are cramps during pregnancy normal?
Some abdominal cramping and stomach pain in pregnancy is common.
Later on in pregnancy, pregnancy pains could be linked to normal symptoms likeBraxton Hicks contractionsand round ligament pain.
It’s always safest tocall your doctorabout any symptom that concerns you.
As a result, your digestion slows down.
This can lead topregnancy-related bloatingas well as constipation both of which can bring on crampy feelings in your abdomen.
Your discomfort is probably digestion-related if passing gas or having a bowel movement provides some short-term relief.
Worried about orgasmhurting the baby during sex?
It absolutely won’t.
To relieve the cramps, try lying down for a while or taking a nap.
This can feel like more pressure in the area.
Lying down to rest or soaking in a warm bath may help relieve these pregnancy pains.
Fortunately, a short round of antibiotics usually takes care of the infection.
Drinking enough water during pregnancy means aiming for about eight to 10 glasses a day.
A little R and R usually eases the discomfort.
Ectopic pregnancies often also cause vaginal bleeding, shoulder pain, lightheadedness and faintness.
If you think you may be experiencing an ectopic pregnancy, see a doctor right away.
Ectopic pregnancies are diagnosed with ultrasounds and blood tests around week 5 to 6.
Miscarriage
What do miscarriage cramps feel like?
First trimester cramping during pregnancy that’s linked to amiscarriagecan be dull or similar to bad period cramps.
It usually occurs in the abdomen, lower back and/or pelvic area and is accompanied by bleeding.
Although most miscarriages happen in the first trimester, they can occur in the second trimester as well.
Round ligament painusually starts in the second trimester but can occur any time in the second half of pregnancy.
These cramps during pregnancy can last for anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes.
For relief, get plenty of rest and take a stab at change positions slowly.
When you experience a Braxton Hicks cramping during the second trimester of pregnancy onwards, change positions.
Keep in mind that placental abruption, preeclampsia and preterm labor can occur during the second trimester as well.
Keep reading below for more information on these conditions.
Placental abruption is most common in the third trimester, but it can occur in the second trimester.
It’s important to see your doctor right away if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms.
If it’s caught early and treated, you have excellent odds of having a healthy pregnancy.
If you experience these symptoms before 37 weeks, you could be experiencingpreterm labor.
