- Main causes of colic in pregnancy
- 1. Tubal pregnancy
- 2. Ovular detachment
- 3. Detachment of the placenta
- 4. Miscarriage
- 5. Labor
- 6. Other possible causes
- How to relieve
- Colic in early pregnancy
- Colic in late pregnancy
- When to go to the doctor
Colic in pregnancy is normal, especially at the beginning of pregnancy due to the adaptation of the mother's body to the baby's growth and also at the end of pregnancy, around 37 weeks of gestation, giving evidence of the beginning of labor.
However, there are other conditions that can cause severe and persistent cramps in pregnancy, and which should be evaluated by the doctor. In addition, if the cramps do not stop after a while or are accompanied by vaginal bleeding, discharge or fever, it is important to consult a gynecologist.
Main causes of colic in pregnancy
Some situations that can also cause colic in pregnancy are:
1. Tubal pregnancy
Tubal pregnancy, also called ectopic pregnancy, occurs when the embryo does not develop in the uterus, but in the uterine tubes, which usually leads to bleeding and abortion.
2. Ovular detachment
Ovular detachment is caused by the detachment of the gestational sac before the 20th week of pregnancy and is characterized by the presence of a hematoma caused by the accumulation of blood between the uterus and the gestational sac. This hematoma can worsen with effort and, the larger the hematoma, the greater the risk of premature birth, miscarriage and placental detachment.
3. Detachment of the placenta
Placental detachment occurs when the placenta is separated from the wall of the uterus as a result of inflammation and changes in blood circulation in the placenta, such as intense physical exertion and high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia, which causes vaginal bleeding and severe cramps. It is a dangerous situation and requires immediate intervention.
4. Miscarriage
Spontaneous abortion can happen in early pregnancy due to various situations, such as excessive physical activity, use of medications, certain teas, infections or trauma. Learn about 10 causes of miscarriage.
5. Labor
Cramps that appear after 37 weeks of gestation, which have progressive intensity and become more constant over time may be indicative of labor. Learn how to streamline labor.
6. Other possible causes
Other possible causes of colic during pregnancy are viruses, food poisoning, appendicitis or urinary infections, and it is recommended to go to the doctor as soon as the first pains appear.
How to relieve
Colic relief is done according to its cause and according to medical advice. In some cases the obstetrician may prescribe the use of medications to reduce the pain and discomfort of colic.
Usually when the woman calms down and relaxes while resting, the cramps decrease, but it is important to note how many times a day the cramps have appeared and in what situations they have improved or worsened.
Colic in early pregnancy
In early pregnancy, it is normal to experience colic and usually corresponds to one of the signs of pregnancy. Colic in early pregnancy is due to the growth of the uterus and the adaptation to embryo implantation. Urinary or vaginal infections, with discharge, are also responsible for the appearance of cramps in early pregnancy. See what are the first 10 symptoms of pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the accumulation of gases in the intestine can also cause colic due to poor digestion of certain foods such as beans, broccoli or ice cream. Colic after intercourse in pregnancy is normal, as orgasm also causes uterine contraction.
Colic in late pregnancy
Colic at the end of pregnancy may mean that the time of delivery is approaching. This colic is the result of the baby's movement inside the belly or its weight that presses on muscles, ligaments and veins, causing pain and discomfort. Learn how to identify contractions in pregnancy.
When to go to the doctor
It is important that the woman goes to the gynecologist or obstetrician when she has frequent, painful cramps that do not stop even at rest. In addition, it is recommended to go to the doctor if you experience symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, fever, chills, vomiting or pain when urinating at the beginning or end of pregnancy, or if you suspect the onset of labor. Know how to recognize the signs of labor.
At the doctor's appointment, the woman should say all the symptoms she has so that the doctor can identify what is causing the colic and then perform the necessary procedure.
