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Pregnancy is an exciting, anticipatory time full of changes--emotional and physical. Some of the first and most prevalent ones include pregnancy cramps during early pregnancy. These cramps may be uncomfortable to many women, especially when they are similar to period cramps.
The pains of early pregnancy are usually twinges, pulling, or tension in the lower abdomen or back. They are said by many women to be like menstrual cramps, but not as severe.
Pregnancy cramps are:
When you are approximately 6 weeks pregnant and experiencing cramping, you are probably just letting your uterus get used to its new job.
There are a number of changes that occur concurrently in the first trimester that can justify the occurrence of cramping:
During the very early weeks, a few women undergo implantation cramps as the fertilized egg is attached to the uterine wall. They are generally mild and transitory.
Your womb is ready to accommodate your child. As it grows, ligaments and muscles are stretched, resulting in slight cramps or twinges.
An increase in progesterone and other hormones relaxes muscles, slows down digestion and occasionally brings about bloating or gas. This may cause cramp-like pain.
The pregnancy may cause heaviness sensations or pressure, due to the increased flow of blood to the uterus to sustain the pregnancy.
A common feature of pregnancy is constipation, gas and indigestion, which could be experienced as cramping.
Yes. One of the most frequent women to complain in the first trimester is cramping. It can be common at around 6 weeks of pregnancy when the uterus starts expanding at a faster rate.
Although it is normal to be concerned, the majority of early pregnancy cramping is not serious and does not signify a miscarriage or complication. It depends on observing the severity and its presence or absence with other symptoms such as bleeding, dizziness, or fever.
Because the cramps during pregnancy caused by early pregnancy are usually similar to cramps during a period, it is only natural that many women would question how to differentiate between the two. Knowledge of the variations can contribute to the reduction of unnecessary concern.
Period cramps are usually stronger, rhythmic and accompanied by a deep ache or a sense of pressure that accompanies active menstrual bleeding. They tend to be more severe and could extend to the back or thighs.
The cramps during pregnancy are milder, however. They are usually termed as pulling, stretching or tugging pains in the lower abdomen. These cramps are not associated with menstrual flow and tend to appear and disappear instead of being in a wave-like like.
Once you are confirmed pregnant and start to cramp, particularly around the 6-week mark, it is not usually menstruation, but instead it is your uterus stretching and your ligaments stretching. A lot of women also feel full or heavy in the area of the pelvis, which is normal.
Although some cramping is normal, it is important to monitor the severity level and other related conditions. When the cramps are severe, one-sided, or accompanied by heavy bleeding, it is important to consult the doctor as quickly as possible.
Small lifestyle changes and supportive care can usually be applied to light cramping of the unborn during early pregnancy. The following are some of the most basic and efficient methods of alleviating the pain:
Sometimes dehydration can even cause contractions in the uterus, and cramps become more serious. Do your best to take a drink of water now and then during the day and drink up foods that are hydrating, such as fruits or soups to keep your body in balance.
Excessive rest may cause your muscles to get stiff, whereas excessive activity may result in strain. Alternating between light and rest exercise, including walking or easy stretches, can be useful in maintaining good circulation and in eliminating cramping.
The lower abdomen can be treated with a warm (not hot) compress to relax tight muscles and enhance blood flow. All you need to remember is to keep the heat down and remember not to use it too often and for too long sessions.
Light prenatal stretches or yoga postures may help relieve tension and strain in the back and stomach and foster calmness. Several minutes a day can bring a significant change in comfort.
With the swelling of the belly, the additional pressure on the ligaments may increase the cramping effects. The Momcozy Maternova Belly Band gives gentle, uniform compression pressure on the abdomen and lower back. It will alleviate strain on the ligaments, reduce cramping, and improve posture during the day.
Cramps at night can be particularly annoying in that they interfere with sleep. Here are some tips to cope:
Whereas it is impossible to escape cramping in pregnancy- most of it is caused by natural processes in the uterus and ligaments- you can prevent the frequency and severity of cramps. Even tiny conscious rituals can make a big difference to make you feel much more at ease.
The following are some of the effective preventive measures to reduce cramps:
Being proactive and taking care of your body in these little ways can result in less and less severe cramps, and your early pregnancy experience will be less painful.
In the case of the majority of women, cramping reduces after the first trimester. At about 12-14 weeks, the uterus becomes stable at a new position, and the body becomes used to the changes in hormones.
Nevertheless, mild cramping can still take place late in pregnancy as the infant develops and the body keeps adjusting.
Most cramping is not a serious problem, but some symptoms need to be treated by a doctor:
A good standard practice is to simply pick up the phone and call your healthcare provider to be given the go-ahead.
Pregnancy cramps during early pregnancy are not something to worry about, and this is the normal way of your body adapting to support your developing baby. The cramping at the 6th week of pregnancy is not a reason to panic, as it is a normal change in the uterus.
It is important to learn that knowing what is normal, self-care, and supportive products, such as the Momcozy pregnancy-belt, can alleviate discomfort and concentrate on the excitement of the pregnancy process. And keep in mind that, in case of some severe, persistent cramps and other alarming symptoms, you should never be afraid to call your doctor.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider regarding any medical condition. Momcozy is not responsible for any consequences arising from the use of this content.
