Abdominal cramping is a common and usually harmless ailment that many women experience during the late stages of pregnancy. Third trimester cramping can be due to a variety of factors, only some of which are serious. Understanding the symptoms that accompany abdominal cramps can help determine when it is necessary to seek immediate medical attention.
Normal Adominal Pain Culprits
Gas, bloating, constipation, heartburn and round ligament pain are the most common culprits of third trimester abdominal cramping. The first four of these are due to hormones that have worked to slow down digestion, according to SteadyHealth.com, coupled with the pressure placed by an enlarged uterus on the stomach and intestines.
While round ligament pain can begin in the second trimester, it usually gets worse during the third. The pain, which can be brief and stabbing or dull and long-lasting, is the result of the ligaments around the uterus stretching as the uterus grows.
Pain Management
Pregnant women should take some time to put up their feet and rest when abdominal cramping flares up, according to the March of Dimes. When this is not possible, they can try bending toward the direction of the pain, or using a heating pad on the lowest setting to soothe the area.
Identification
Braxton-Hicks contractions, often referred to as false labor, occur when the uterine muscles tighten. For many women find it difficult to distinguish these contractions from labor contractions because they sometimes occur with cramping pain, according to the March of Dimes. Expectant parents can rule out real labor if the pain and contractions stop when walking, occur at irregular intervals, and do not get stronger or more frequent over time.
Considerations
During the last weeks of pregnancy, cramping is often a sign that labor is ready to begin. Strong abdominal cramps that come at regular intervals every five to 10 minutes are usually a sign of labor, according to the March of Dimes. A backache reminiscent of menstrual cramps is another sign of impending labor.
Pre-term labor occurs when contractions and abdominal cramping begin before a woman's 37th week of pregnancy. Notify a doctor immediately if there are any signs of pre-labor.
Complications
Placental abruption is a serious pregnancy complication that, if left untreated, can be fatal to the baby. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus. Symptoms include incessant abdominal cramping and uterine tenderness, and may involve some light bleeding or spotting. Many women report a perceived decrease in the baby's activity levels, according to SteadyHealth.com.
When to Call a Doctor
Pregnant women should contact a doctor immediately if the pain of abdominal cramping becomes severe. The March of Dimes advises women to seek medical attention immediately if cramps come with fever, vaginal bleeding or discharge, or lightheadedness.
