Can Lower Abdominal Pain Be a Sign of Early Pregnancy?

Lower abdominal pain can be a sign of early pregnancy. Ovulation, implantation and other changes can cause pain in the lower abdomen that are easy to confuse with premenstrual cramps.

  1. Ovulation

    • As the mature egg is released from its follicle on the ovary, this can cause lower abdominal pain at the mid point of a woman's cycle.

    Implantation

    • Another possible cause for lower abdominal pain in early pregnancy is implantation. The fertilized egg cell attaches to the lining of the uterus, which can cause mild pain and spotting.

    Stretching

    • Both the uterus and the round ligaments stretch and change during early pregnancy. This can be accompanied by lower abdominal pain.

    Ectopic Pregnancy

    • Pain in the lower abdomen can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tubes. This condition can be dangerous and must be monitored by a doctor.

    Early Miscarriage

    • Unfortunately, cramps and lower abdominal pain can be the sign of a termination of early pregnancy. This is known as a chemical pregnancy or miscarriage.

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