What causes period-like cramps during pregnancy?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Period-like cramps during pregnancy can signal several conditions, ranging from normal to serious. Common causes include:

Braxton Hicks contractions: Irregular "practice" contractions that are a normal part of pregnancy.
Preterm labor: Cramping before 37 weeks that may indicate early labor and requires urgent medical attention.
Round ligament pain: Sharp cramps caused by stretching ligaments as the uterus grows.
Gas or constipation: Common digestive issues during pregnancy that can mimic cramps.

Because these symptoms overlap with more serious conditions, it's important to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Getting clarity quickly matters—especially during pregnancy, when timing can affect outcomes for both you and your baby. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your cramps and confidently plan your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover causes of pregnancy cramps Learn if cramps need urgent care Find out what pregnancy cramps mean See OTC relief for pregnancy cramps Find a doctor for pregnancy cramps Understand home remedies for pregnancy cramps Check if cramps signal a serious issue

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Explanation

Period-like cramps during pregnancy can sometimes be a sign of preterm labor, which means the baby might come earlier than expected. These cramps can occur because the body is preparing for labor too soon.

Key Points:

Preterm Labor Signs:

Cramps that feel like a period
Changes in vaginal discharge
Pressure in the pelvis

Why It Happens:

The body may start preparing for labor earlier than it should, causing these symptoms.

What to Do:

If you experience these cramps, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can help determine if it's preterm labor or something else. For example, during the third trimester of pregnancy, some women experience cramping sensations that are Braxton Hicks contractions and a normal part of pregnancy. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular and do not increase in intensity or frequency. You can also use our free symptom checker to help identify what might be causing your discomfort and whether you should seek immediate medical attention.

Always reach out to a healthcare provider if you have concerns during pregnancy.

(References)

Iams JD, Stilson R, Johnson FF, Williams RA, & Rice R. (1990). Symptoms that precede preterm labor and .... American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 2137968.
Katz M, Goodyear K, & Creasy RK. (1990). Early signs and symptoms of preterm labor. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 2140235.
Ertmann RK, Nicolaisdottir DR, Kragstrup J, Overbeck G, Kriegbaum M, & Siersma V. (2023). The predictive value of common symptoms in early .... Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica, 36300886.

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