Cramps during pregnancy: Common Questions Answered
While you are pregnant, apart from just making room for your baby, your body undergoes several changes that result in different things like body changes, mood changes, and most importantly, cramping. In early pregnancy, many women suffer from cramps as the baby develops, making it often scary, but the main part is that it is a common symptom happening during the period.
As the cramps are just a small part of the pregnancy, it is more important to distinguish between the one that is healthy and the one that is dangerous. Today in this article presented by New Concept Clinic, a Women’s Pregnancy Center in Dubai, we will be answering the most common questions related to the above-mentioned topic.
Related : Butt Cramps during periods: Here’s why it happens and what to do?
What are the signs and symptoms?
During the period, there are several signs and symptoms that can let you know about the cramps. The first symptom of pregnancy cramps is implantation pain, occurring during the time when your period would normally begin. The second is trimester-based symptoms resulting in different signs and experiences.
What are the causes?
Pregnancy cramps are considered normal in general but can be problematic if they appear frequently. There are several other reasons for causing pregnancy cramps.
- Cramps during early pregnancy
A woman is expected to have some mildness during the first 16 weeks of the pregnancy due to implantation cramping, uterine growth, gastrointestinal issues, and others.
- Cramps during the second trimester
Other than exceptions, women are less likely to experience cramps during their second trimester. The main causes of cramps are round ligament pain, urinary tract infection, uterine fibroids, etc.
- Cramps during the third trimester
A woman in her third trimester is likely to experience cramps during pregnancy due to placental abruption, preeclampsia, and others.
Is it normal to experience cramps during pregnancy?
Experiencing pregnancy cramps during the period is considered normal as it is part of the process, says Dr. Elsa, a Top Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology in Dubai. If the situation is frequent and the pain is severe, watch out for the below-mentioned red flags and inform your doctor as soon as possible.
- Have had six or more than six contractions.
- Have had persistent cramping.
- Feeling dizzy and lightheaded during the cramps.
- Have signs of preeclampsia.
- The pain is not improving during this time.
How can I slow down the cramps?
As long as your cramps do not occur frequently and are not severe, you can perform the below-mentioned activities at home or in a clinic to calm yourself down.
- Take rest: Practice the art of resting by simply sitting, lying, or changing positions.
- Soak in a tub: Relax yourself in a warm tub or a warm shower.
- Practice deep breathing: Perform meditation, yoga, and deep breathing.
- Drink fluids: Switch your consumption to fluids. Drink more water, juice, or other beverages to keep you hydrated.
- Take medication: To reduce the pain, take medication products like Tylenol and others under the care of your doctor.
When to see a doctor?
When it comes to your and your baby’s health, take the utmost care of your body and feelings. If you find any sort of signs and symptoms developing that are uncommon or severe, rush to your medical healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Also Read : Pregnancy Symptoms to Watch Out for After 10 DPO
