Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 5/30/2025

Are period cramps similar to contractions?

Period cramps and contractions during pregnancy are both caused by the uterus tightening, but they happen for different reasons and can feel different. Always reach out to a healthcare provider if cramps are severe, worsening, or if you have any concerns during pregnancy.

answer background

Explanation

Period cramps and contractions during pregnancy both involve the uterus tightening. Period cramps happen because of chemicals called prostaglandins that make the uterus contract to help shed its lining. Period cramps can be painful but are a normal part of the menstrual cycle.

On the other hand, labor contractions in a pregnant woman occur when the uterus tightens to help push a baby out during childbirth. They are usually stronger and more regular than period cramps. If labor contractions occur much earlier than when a baby is expected to be born, it can sometimes be a sign of preterm labor, which means the mother's body is preparing for labor too soon and the baby might come earlier than expected.

If you experience cramps during pregnancy, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can help determine if the contractions are 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 or preterm labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular and do not increase in intensity or frequency.

Even though period cramps, labor contractions, preterm labor contractions, and Braxton Hicks contractions all involve the uterus, they are not the same. Always reach out to a healthcare provider if cramps are severe, worsening, or if you have any concerns during pregnancy.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Period cramps

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.