When to call the doctor
Cramping
Cramping is not uncommon in pregnancy. The uterus begins to contract mildly from 3 months onward. These early contractions are called Braxton-Hicks, and they squeeze and tighten the uterus to prepare the body for delivery. These early contractions are usually painless but are sometimes confused with cramping.
In early pregnancy, the big warning involved with cramping (like menstrual cramping) is usually a threat of a miscarriage. This occurs in combination with bleeding followed by cramping. An ectopic pregnancy could be another warning from cramping. Ectopic pregnancies are usually diagnosed before eight weeks and are very dangerous. During periods of excessive exercise, the pregnant woman's hormones can increase to levels high enough to trigger the onset of pre-term labor. Pregnancy is not the time for fad diets, excessive exercise, or strain. If you are noticing any of these signs or noting cramping after exercise, please call your health care provider.