Pregnancy

During pregnancy abdominal cramps and cramps of the abdomen are not uncommon. In most cases they are harmless and are caused by the increasing strain on the internal organs and the connective tissue of the ligament and pelvic floor apparatus. Cramp-like symptoms can also be triggered by sexual intercourse and an orgasm.

The normally pleasant contractions of the uterus during orgasm can become painful but harmless cramps during pregnancy, which have a contraction-like character. Recurring abdominal cramps during pregnancy can be discussed and clarified with a gynecologist. Occasionally they are caused by benign growths of the uterine muscles, so-called myomas.

These can cause increasing discomfort as a result of the growth of the child, but often do not require treatment. If bleeding or discharge occurs in addition to the cramps, a doctor must be consulted urgently.There is the threat of abortion, which unfortunately occurs frequently in the first twelve weeks after conception. In advanced pregnancy, cramps and the loss of mucus or even amniotic fluid may herald a premature birth.

The doctor has to decide whether the pregnancy should be carried out or artificially prolonged. In case of additional occurrence of malodorous discharge, fever and chills, an infection must be considered. Also in this case, a gynecologist must be consulted to prevent damage to mother and child as far as possible.

Duration of cramps

The duration of cramps generally depends on their cause. The example of food poisoning can be an entertaining experience because the cramps are only needed once for a very fast passage of food through the gastrointestinal tract. In the case of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, as the term “chronic” already indicates, cramps are permanent and very stressful for those affected.

With other causes, for example parasites or food allergies, the cramps including diarrhea persist as long as the causative mechanism exists. If the lower abdominal pain in women lasts longer than a few days during menstruation, it may be endometriosis. Under these circumstances, these cramps can also become chronic, i.e. persistent. In general, longer lasting cramps should always be clarified by a doctor.