Period like pains at 30 weeks?

Hey guys,

I'm 30w3d and am getting mild period like cramps down low.
Is this normal? Something I should be worried about?
Never had it before.

Thanks
Sue xx

Hi Sue,

I've had on/off AF type cramping up until week 20 or so, then at almost 32 weeks (now) it is starting to come back. I normally get it if I move too fast or roll over in the bed funny, and the pain lasts for a few minutes, then goes away. Mostly I put it down to ligament stretching pains. I have heard that cramping in the 3rd trimester is common (even through the whole pg), but seek medical advice if you have any spotting/strong back pain that comes with it and if the pain gets worse.

Hope this helps, but don't worry too much hun. Try avoiding lifting anything too heavy, or move furniture etc. When I lift something too heavy I get the crampy feeling and my back is beyond sore!

B x

Sounds perfectly normal to me. It is probably just your uterus having a bit of a practice, it's called braxton hicks (I think that's how you spell it!?) :)

I thought that braxton hicks were when your tummy tightens, this isn't what it is.

I've been having BH's since 25 weeks which are painless, this feels more like a low down period cramp.

S X

Hi Sue,

I've had exactly the same thing over the past few days, I called my OB's office and they got me to come in, and my OB sent me off for an ultrasound to check my cervical length. It might not mean the same for you, since I have some congenital abnormalities which mean I'm at high risk of preterm labour, so my OB wants to keep a very close eye on my cervix for incompetence. The US did show that my cervix has shortened, so I have to go back for another scan next week to recheck the length, if it continues to shorten I may have to go on bed rest and possibly have steroid injections to help bub develop faster if he/she comes very early.

Obviously this is just my specific situation, your cramps could just be your uterus still stretching, but if you are concerned, you should call your OB/GP/whoever is responsible for your antenatal care, they should get you to come in to be examined. It's just not worth stressing out about it (even if it turns out to be nothing) or leaving it when it could be something serious.

Good luck, let us know how you go! :)

P.S - I've been getting some Braxton Hicks too, but like you say, it was completely painless, just a squeezing, tightening sensation in my uterus. These cramps were quite different, like period pain, also accompanied by a heavy, 'pressure' sort of feeling down very low.

Hi Erin, thanks for that.
The pain isn't consistent but I am going to ring my midwife over lunch time anyway just to ask - can't hurt to ask!

I have a growth scan booked next week so will see what my cervix is doing then too!!

Hope that you have a smooth time for the rest of your pregnancy!
Sue xx

I have a dull ache in my pelvis that is similar to the start up (day before) of my period. My OB and midwife have both says its the relaxin working its liberating magic.