Lower Abdominal Pain in Early Pregnancy: Causes & Relief

Question
i just found out 2 wks ago that i am pregnant. the er doctor done an u.s. and said that i was too early to tell how far along i was. but for the past 3 wks i have been having excruitiating pain in my lower abdomen. i thought it was bladder spasms due to a recent uti i had but the has resolved and i still have the severe pain. the pain starts out like a menstrual cramp and then gets severe radiating down to my pelvic area, legs and around my lower back. the pain hurts so bad that i break out into a sweat and my BP elevates. the doctor said its just my uterus taking shape. i just cant bare the pain anymore. this is my first pregnancy and already im have discomfort. please can u help me to ease the pain.

Answer
Dear Melissa,

Congratulations on your pregnancy and I am sorry to hear that you are experiencing such acute pain.  While I can not recommend any instant remedy plan, I can a) assure you that it is quite common to have PMS-type cramps in the beginning of your pregnancy b) recommend you to try deep breathing during the spasms.  Breathe in through the nose (take a really long relaxed breath), and breathe out through the mouth - again don't try to force the breath out, just go with the flow.  On exhalation try to relax the muscles as much as possible.  Actually, this skill will help you with contractions at the end of your journey.  Also, make sure you drink a lot of water to avoid dehydration.  I wish I can tell you more, but I can not diagnose over internet.  If the pain doesn't stop, make sure you are calling your doctor and insist on a physical examination.  I know the first pregnancy is very unnerving, but it is important to avoid stress.  I hope the pain will pass soon!
Happy New Year,

Anna