Occasional abdominal cramps are a common pregnancy ailment but usually harmless. Although normal uterine cramping during early pregnancy tends to take place directly over the uterus in the lower abdomen, intense cramping or cramping in other parts may be a sign of something more serious. Understanding some basics about first-trimester cramping can help determine when to seek medical intervention.
Sign of Early Pregnancy
Some women report abdominal cramping when a fertilized egg implants into the uterine wall, according to pregnancy-period.com. Because the pain lasts just a day or two and may occur with light bleeding or spotting, many mistake it for a period, only to find out weeks later that they are pregnant.
Urinary Tract Infection
Pregnancy makes many women more susceptible to urinary tract infections of the kidney and bladder, according to BabyCenter.com. Symptoms include mild pelvic pressure or abdominal cramps together with discomfort or burning while urinating. Urine that's cloudy, smelly, or bloody is also a symptom that can accompany a bladder infection. If left untreated, a bladder infection can progress to the kidneys and cause premature labor.
Common Episodes of Harmless Cramping
During pregnancy, hormones work to slow the digestive process to allow the fetus a chance to absorb as many nutrients as possible. This, together with the addition of prenatal vitamins and healthier foods and drinks rich in fiber and calcium, can lead to gas and constipation. These can cause abdominal cramps. Gas and bloating are harmless and don't compromise the pregnancy.
Miscarriage
Although bleeding is usually the first sign of pregnancy, abdominal cramps usually follow shortly thereafter. During the first trimester, miscarriage cramps can range from mild to sharp, and may be persistent or intermittent. Contact a doctor immediately following signs of a miscarriage.
Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized eggs implants outside the uterus. Abdominal cramps usually begin during the first trimester and are often stronger on one side, according to the March of Dimes. The pain may spread to the shoulder and be accompanied by irregular bleeding, faintness or dizziness, and vomiting or nausea.
When to Call a Doctor
Severe cramping or pain is never a normal sign of pregnancy. If cramping and pain are persistent or occur with heavy bleeding, a racing pulse, fever, vaginal discharge, nausea and vomiting, try to rest for a few minutes, according to BabyCenter.com. If resting doesn't make the symptoms subside, call a doctor immediately.
