Pregnancy Myths
Fact or Fiction?
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:
Shawn A. Tassone, M.D. (OB/GYN)
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