4 Ways to Ease Cramping In Early Pregnancy | Cramping During Pregnancy Symptoms and Treatments

Relaxation Exercises to Ease Your Muscles

When you notice cramping in early pregnancy, it could be due to physiological changes. An example is the stretching of your uterus. As the uterine wall expands, it could lead to mild abdominal cramps and pain. A simple solution to ease your discomfort is relaxation exercises.

1. Start with Breathing Exercises

One of the ways to ease cramping in early pregnancy is deep breathing. Take deep breaths in and then release the breaths slowly. Repeat the process until you feel your stress melt away. You can also use meditation techniques to ease your mind and help your body relax.

Tighten the muscles in your feet and then relax them. Repeat the process in your calves and then your thighs. Work your way through your arms, shoulders, and neck. When you relax your muscles, you will feel a sense of relief from stress and physical discomfort.

2. Take a Warm Bath

Taking a warm bath can help ease abdominal pain. Fill the tub until it reaches mid-level or higher. Soak in the warm water until you feel relaxed. By relaxing your muscles, you reduce the pain associated with your early pregnancy cramps. You can also add essential oils to your bath water to take full advantage of your time in the tub.

Avoid hot baths during pregnancy. You want a warm temperature that helps your body relax. It should not sting or feel too hot.

3. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is a key part of good health during pregnancy. Do not ignore your body’s need for water. Drink eight to nine glasses of water each day. Add more water during the summer days. The high temperature causes your body to sweat and may contribute to dehydration.

Poor hydration contributes to Braxton Hicks contractions in the second trimester. Hydrate your body to reduce cramping. If plain water is difficult to drink, then add ginger or a squeeze of lemon to your water. The flavor helps you enjoy the fluid.

4. Lie Down and Rest

Cramping in early pregnancy is not comfortable. When a warm bath or relaxation exercises do not manage the stomach cramps, lie down on a bed. Take a nap or rest your body. Allow your body to relax. The rest helps your muscles release tension and reduces pain in your abdominal region.

Signs of Ectopic Pregnancy

After having unprotected sex and confirmation of pregnancy, one of the pregnancy symptoms can be cramping. Cramps occur as your uterus stretches. What you feel is usually mild cramping. They also fade over time. Persistent and severe cramping is not a normal reaction during early pregnancy.

It’s too early for a preterm labor. The cramping in early pregnancy may be due to an ectopic pregnancy. It means the fertilized egg did not undergo a proper implantation in your uterus. Rather, it grows outside of the uterus, such as in the fallopian tube.

Do not ignore the early signs of an ectopic pregnancy. It is dangerous for your safety and well-being. The common symptom is a sudden and persistent pain. It is particularly concerning if the pain occurs on one side of the body. Pain worsens when you exercise or have a bowel movement. Ectopic pregnancy also causes pain in the shoulders.

Do not ignore sudden, severe, or persistent pain. Seek immediate medical attention. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency. Do not wait for treatment if you suspect the condition.

Seeking Treatment for Cramping in Early Pregnancy

Cramps in early pregnancy do happen. It does not mean, however, you should ignore your concerns. If the cramping persists, then talk to your doctor. Discuss potential risks to your health. Pay particular attention to severe or sudden pain. You should not have pain in the upper abdominal region.

Normal cramping does not cause pain or burning while urinating. Otherwise, you may have a urinary tract infection. Heavy vaginal bleeding with cramping is a sign of a medical emergency. It usually means you have a placental abruption or miscarriage. Seek immediate attention from your doctor.

 

Cramping in early pregnancy may be due to an ectopic condition. Learn more about it from a personal experience. Watch this video from naturallybrielle:

If you experience cramping in early pregnancy, don’t panic immediately. Breathe, relax, and listen to your body. Focus on the level, frequency, and changes in pain. If possible, take note of your concerns. In the end, whether you feel it is fine or not, tell your OB/GYN about your experience.

Have you experienced cramping in early pregnancy? What did you feel? Tell us your stories in the comments section below.

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