Lower Abdominal Cramping in Early Pregnancy: What to Know

Question
I am 6 weeks pregnant and have been experiencing some mild cramping in my lower abdomen for the past week. I have not had any bleeding at all. My cramping usually goes away when I change positions, but not always. It is very sporadic and does not happen often, but it is there. This is my first pregnancy and I am a little worried. I called my doctor's office, and her receptionist wouldn't let me speak with my doctor and told me that if I am miscarrying, there is nothing they can do about it, and to wait a week to see what happens. What should I do? Is this normal?

Answer
Dear Eryn,

Unfortunately, although I know it is very frustrating, the person you spoke to at your doctor's office is essentially right. The cramping you are experiencing may or may not be related to a miscarriage, but if it IS due to an impending miscarriage, there just is nothing to do to prevent it. Nearly all miscarriages are due to a chromosomal abnormality of one sort or another - meaning that something is not correct with the baby's chromosomes. Most chromosomal abnormalities are the cause of a faulty egg or sperm cell, or are due to a problem at the time that the fertilized egg went through the division process. The woman's body will recognize that there is a problem with the pregnancy and nature will take over in miscarrying the pregnancy.

Other causes for miscarriage include (but are not limited to):
-Hormonal problems, infections or maternal health problems
-Lifestyle (i.e. smoking, drug use, malnutrition, excessive caffeine and exposure to radiation or toxic substances)
-Implantation of the egg into the uterine lining does not occur properly
-Advanced maternal age
-Maternal trauma

For women in childbearing years, the chances of having a miscarriage can range from 10-25%, and in most healthy women the average is about a 15-20% chance. But the cramping does not automatically mean you definitely are miscarrying. All you really can do is wait and see what happens. If you begin to have vaginal bleeding and/or stronger cramping (like severe menstrual cramps) or pass clots or tissue, then call your doctor right away.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda