Cramping is common throughout the first trimester as a result of typical changes that occur during your baby's growth. Cramps are commonly defined as tugging feelings on one or both sides of the abdomen. Although it is not considered a sign for early pregnancy detection, it is a symptom that occurs in many pregnancies. Cramping is a typical feature of pregnancy in most circumstances. Cramping, on the other hand, might be a problem in particular situations.
What Causes Pregnancy Cramps?
Bloating and gas
Gas during pregnancy is a common occurrence, which means it is also a common cause of concern. The average person will pass gas about 18 times each day. This is because the average individual uses up to 4 pints of gas every day.
For some, gas is the bloating sensation that is also known as indigestion. Most people, however, associate it with the passage of gas. Farting is a colloquial term for gas, however, it is technically recognized as flatulence. Gas tries to exit the body in many ways, including flatulence and belching or burping.
Gas accumulation occurs whether or not you are pregnant. However, if you find out you're pregnant, you can have greater problems with gas. The elevated levels of progesterone are a major component in having more gas during pregnancy. Progesterone is a hormone that relaxes the muscles all over your body.
How can you avoid gas when pregnant?
It is very hard to avoid gas during pregnancy. There are, however, things you may do to regulate the gas. Your major goal is to make it happen less frequently. Certain meals might be a source of discomfort during pregnancy.
- Avoid or limit carbohydrate beverages.
- Fatty fried meals should be avoided.
- Avoid using a straw when drinking from a glass.
- Smaller meals throughout the day should be prioritized.
- Exercise can help promote digestion.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight around your waist.
Sexual intercourse
Sex during pregnancy is safe as long as you're experiencing a normal pregnancy with no issues, up until your water breaks or you go into labor.
Is it secure to have sex during pregnancy?
Couples frequently worry about whether sex and pregnancy are compatible. Unless your doctor instructs you differently, having sex while pregnant is safe for both you and your baby. The baby is shielded from infection by the amniotic fluid in the womb, your tummy, and the mucus plug that seals your cervix.
When is it not safe to have sex while pregnant?
Unless your healthcare professional has stated that you have a high-risk pregnancy, sex is safe during pregnancy. Although there are a few reasons to avoid sex during pregnancy, your health care provider may advise you to do so in certain circumstances. These are some examples:
- Premature birth or labor history
- Miscarriage history
- If your water line has ruptured.
Pregnancy constipation
Because of hormonal changes in your body, you may develop constipation very early in your pregnancy.
You may help prevent constipation by doing the following:
- Consume fiber-rich foods such as whole-meal, pieces of bread and cereals, fruits and vegetables, and pulses such as beans and lentils — learn more about maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy.
- Regular exercise will keep your muscles toned – learn more about pregnancy exercise
- Drink a lot of water
- Avoid iron supplements, which may cause constipation – Consult your doctor to see if you can live without them or switch to a different type.
A point to remember
In general, mild cramping is common early in a pregnancy. That doesn't mean you shouldn't ask your doctor any questions you have, especially if this is your first pregnancy or if it's different from past pregnancies. So, keep track of how long and how frequently your cramps occur and, if you have any concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
References
- https://wfmchealth.org/maternity-health-care/when-should-cramps-during-pregnancy-be-worrisome/
- https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-concerns/cramping-during-pregnancy/
- https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/stomach-pain/