Title: Abdominal cramps in early pregnancy
Course: Antenatal Care Part 1 - Ethiopia (Full)

Abdominal cramps in early pregnancy

The woman may have an ectopic pregnancy implanted in a fallopian tube, or she may be having a miscarriage. She should get medical help immediately.

It is normal to have mild abdominal cramps (like mild monthly bleeding cramps) at times during the first trimester of pregnancy. These cramps happen because the uterus is growing. However, cramps that are regular (come and go in a pattern), or constant (always there), or are very strong or painful, or come with spotting or bleeding from the vagina, are warning signs.