Many women experience abdominal pain during pregnancy. In most cases this is just cramping as the body is preparing the uterus to carry a baby. These cramping feelings in the abdomen are totally normal and should be expected by most pregnant women. If, however, there is abdominal pain during pregnancy that is accompanied by other symptoms such as a fever and chills a bigger problem may be imminent. If you have a series of symptoms then you should call your doctor immediately in order to secure a diagnosis. It is a smart idea to call your doctor at the first sign of these symptoms as they can get worse and more painful as time goes on.
* Ectopic pregnancy. This is a condition that will occur very early in the pregnancy. The fertilized egg attaches outside of the women’s uterus instead of where it is supposed to. The abdominal pain that it causes will be sudden and can last for up to several hours. If you are experiencing pain in the abdomen along with other symptoms such as bleeding, back pain or dizziness then there is a chance that you are experiencing an ectopic pregnancy. The doctor should be called immediately so that you can get medical attention as soon as possible.
* Miscarriage. Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be a sign that a miscarriage is imminent. If you are going to experience a miscarriage then there will be bleeding along with cramping that gets worse and worse. In addition, back pain in sometimes present just before a miscarriage occurs. If you are having these symptoms then it may be a smart idea to seek medical attention immediately. Going to the emergency room will give you the best chance of being comfortable and free of the painful symptoms.
* Preterm labor. This is when the uterus is stretching out to accommodate the ever growing baby. Many women feel abdominal pain as the pregnancy goes on which can be caused by preterm labor. In the worst case, preterm labor pains in the abdomen can be a sign of premature labor. If this is the case then the abdominal pains will be accompanied by a dilating cervix, back pain as well as a mucous discharge. The good news is that these symptoms can be controlled if you contact the hospital immediately. By seeking immediate medical attention you will be giving yourself the opportunity to carry your baby full term as this condition can be controlled.