Pregnancy Myths

MYTH: Cramping in early pregnancy is a sign of miscarriage.
Shawn A. Tassone, M.D. (OB/GYN)

What makes you cramp? Well, let's see, what is in your pelvis? Early in pregnancy there are a multitude of things that can cause cramping. The structures of the pelvis that can cause this sensation are uterus, ovaries, bladder, bowel, muscle, and tendons. In the first ten weeks of pregnancy the uterus is expanding and swelling larger than it has ever been (if this is your first pregnancy). This stretching and growth can cause some minor irritability and cramping in the uterus. In addition, one of the ovaries will have the corpus luteur cyst of pregnancy, and this can cause a cramping sensation on one side of the lower abdomen. Constipation from increased progesterone levels can cause a fullness and cramping sensation in the lower pelvis, and bladder infections can also create feelings of cramping in the pelvis. None of these problems would necessarily be attributed to miscarriage, but the sensation of cramping can definitely be related to miscarriage. We usually recommend that if you are experiencing severe cramps and/or heavy bleeding (heavier than during a normal menses), you should call your physician immediately or proceed to the emergency room. Overall, cramping during the first trimester of pregnancy is a common occurrence and can happen for many reasons, most of which are not a threat to the pregnancy. Shawn A. Tassone, M.D. author of "Hands Off My Belly! The Pregnant Woman's Guide to Surviving Myths, Mothers, and Moods" Other Myths:

• Pregnancy Myths: Once a preterm delivery, always a preterm delivery.
• Pregnancy Myths: The way you "carry" the baby gives a clue as to its gender.

	Comment from CandyLee » Posted Jun. 28, 2012 12:37am 5 weeks pregnant and the cramps feel like I'm about to bleed any moment. At one point I even thot its over. Glad to hear this. Relieved.
	Comment from ilovedenis » Posted Apr. 23, 2012 5:45pm thank goodness at least i kno iam not he only one out there worrying
	Comment from alanna20 » Posted Dec. 2, 2011 2:01pm wow this helped alot cause i was a little afraid, i been having mild cramping but not severe and its been uncomfortable, like my period was goin to come but no bleeding. so reading this has helped =)