Both your body and the baby's body continue to grow and change in the final weeks of pregnancy, causing numerous aches and pains. Cramping in your belly that is mild to moderate doesn't necessarily mean that labor is going to start. Abdominal pain can be a signal to take better care of yourself, or it may be a normal part of physical discomforts associated with late pregnancy.
Causes
Cramping may be a symptom of dehydration, urinary tract infection, false labor or impending active labor at term. Abdominal cramps prior to 37 weeks gestation that occur more frequently than every 10 minutes for an hour, accompanied by pressure or a low, dull backache, a fluid or bloody vaginal discharge, or loose stools may be signaling premature labor, according to the March of Dimes.
Identification
False labor, also known as Braxton-Hicks contractions, may be irregular or remain the same length, strength and frequency for several hours. These kind of cramps are felt in the front of the abdomen; they may hurt and make rest difficult. False labor does not become worse with walking and does not cause cervical effacement or dilation.
Dehydration causes cramping similar to Braxton-Hick's contractions. This condition may occur when mothers have been busy and on their feet all day, not drinking enough water. Caffeinated drinks may contribute to dehydration.
A urinary tract infection (UTI), or bladder infection, will cause an urgent and frequent urge to empty the bladder, usually voiding only small amounts. A burning sensation may be felt during urination, accompanied by mild abdominal cramps.
In contrast to Braxton-Hicks, Helen Varney, CNM, author of "Varney's Midwifery," states that contractions that signal the beginning of labor are finely coordinated. The layers of uterine muscle work together to draw the circular fibers of the cervix open around the baby's head.
Significance
False labor may help the baby position himself in preparation for true labor. Braxton-Hicks contractions are also thought to stimulate the infant's central nervous system, preparing him for life outside the womb. UTIs are more common during pregnancy, when blood volume expands and the kidneys are more vulnerable to stress and infection. A bladder infection, if untreated, may trigger preterm labor, according to Varney.
Remedies
Drinking extra fluids and taking a warm, relaxing bath may remedy abdominal cramping in late pregnancy. Unsweetened cranberry juice may flush bacteria out of the urinary tract. Cramping is a late sign of UTI, however, when home remedies are less likely to bring relief and treatment with antibiotic medication may be needed. A visit to the hospital may prevent or delay premature birth.
Warning
Severe dehydration can lead to preterm labor. The University of Iowa cautions mothers to seek medical care if they have vomiting, diarrhea or fever over 100.5 degrees. Labor contractions prior to 37 weeks should be evaluated and treated promptly by health care professionals. If premature birth cannot be prevented, there may be time to transport the laboring mother to a facility with neonatal intensive care capabilities.
References
- March of Dimes: Signs and Symptoms of Preterm Labor
- University of Iowa: Danger Signs in Pregnancy
- "Varney's Midwifery"; Helen Varney, CNM, 2003
