10 Early Signs of Labor
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Early Sign #6: Cramps
As mentioned, a baby is too large an object to pass easily through the birth canal. Hence, everything needs to be loosened up to allow it to pass through safely, including the muscles and joints in the pelvic area. As such, the muscles and joints will begin shifting and stretching and this can cause cramps. Cramping in the lower abdomen can also be a sign of cervical dilation.
These cramps may be uncomfortable but they are quite normal and not usually something to be concerned about. Indeed, they are caused by a process that will help make the process of giving birth easier overall. The pain is generally felt in the lower back and is more common in cases where it is not the first pregnancy.
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