Cramps in pregnancy might have various causes. Certain of them are considered normal, whereas others are pathological and need medical care.
The causes also differ whether they appear in the first or in the second or third trimester of the pregnancy.
The most frequent causes in the first trimester (the first three months) include: implantation cramping (cramp when the egg implants in the uterus wall by “drilling” in the wall), stretching of the uterus (considered a normal consequence of fetal growth), constipation, and gasses. The cramps might also be a sign of a pathological condition such as a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Both conditions might be associated with bleeding, are considered serious, and need immediate medical care. Since a person without adequate medical knowledge and an examining method has no way to find out which one of the mentioned causes is responsible for the cramps, you are highly advised to visit your gynecologist. Please note that if bleeding occurs, you might want to visit an emergency medical service as fast as possible.
DISCLAIMER:
"Ask a Doctor" questions are answered by certified physicians and other medical professionals who volunteer
their time on eHealth Forum.
For more information about experts participating in the "Ask a Doctor" Network, please visit our
medical experts page.
You may also visit our Pregnancy , for moderated patient to patient support and information.
The information provided on eHealth Forum is designed to improve, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her own physician.
Personal consultation(s) with a qualified medical professional is the proper means for diagnosing any medical condition.