Is cramping normal in early pregnancy?
Mild, period-like cramping in the first weeks is common as your womb grows and is usually not a problem.
Many women feel mild pulling or period-like cramps in early pregnancy. This often comes from the womb stretching, and from constipation or wind, which are both common.
Cramping becomes more important when it is severe, one-sided, does not settle with rest, or comes with bleeding, dizziness or shoulder-tip pain. Those need to be checked the same day, because they can be signs of a pregnancy growing outside the womb or a miscarriage.
- Rest, drink water and empty your bladder regularly
- Eat fibre and move gently to ease constipation
- Note when the cramps started and how strong they are
- Severe or one-sided pain
- Cramping with vaginal bleeding
- Feeling faint, dizzy or shoulder-tip pain
If pain is severe, one-sided, or comes with bleeding or dizziness, go to your nearest clinic or hospital the same day.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.