Mild tummy aches, twinges and a stretched or crampy feeling can be a common part of the early weeks, as your body changes to make room for your growing baby. It is completely natural to feel a bit anxious about any ache in your abdomen right now. Most early aches are mild and settle on their own, and it also helps to know which sensations are worth getting checked, so this covers both.

What often lies behind mild aches

A lot of early-pregnancy twinges come from your body adjusting. The ligaments and muscles supporting your womb are stretching, which can cause brief, mild pulling or cramping sensations, often when you move, cough or change position. Digestive changes are common too, since pregnancy hormones can slow things down and lead to bloating, wind or constipation, all of which can ache. These sensations are usually mild, brief and settle when you rest or change position.

Gentle ways to feel more comfortable

For the ordinary aches of early pregnancy, small comforts often help. You could try resting and changing position, since ligament twinges usually ease when you do. A warm (not hot) bath can be soothing. If constipation or wind seems to be part of it, staying well hydrated, moving gently and eating plenty of fibre can help keep things comfortable. Slow, gentle movement through the day is generally easier on your body than long spells sitting still.

When to get it checked

Most early aches are nothing to worry about, but some are worth acting on so you can get reassurance or care. You should contact your midwife or maternity care promptly if you have abdominal pain that is severe, persistent or one-sided, any vaginal bleeding, pain with shoulder-tip discomfort, dizziness or feeling faint, or pain with a burning feeling when you pass urine. These do not always mean something is wrong, but they are worth checking without delay rather than waiting to see.

Trust your instincts

You know your own body, and it is always okay to seek advice if something does not feel right to you, even if it is not on any list. Being cautious in early pregnancy is sensible, not an overreaction, and the people looking after you would far rather you asked. Getting peace of mind is a good enough reason on its own.

A few things to keep in mind

• Mild, brief twinges that ease with rest are usually part of your body adjusting.
• Staying hydrated and moving gently can ease digestive aches.
• A warm bath and changing position can soothe ligament twinges.
• Contact your midwife or maternity care promptly if pain is severe, one-sided, or comes with bleeding, faintness or shoulder-tip pain.
• Trust your instincts and ask for advice whenever something does not feel right.

Early pregnancy comes with a lot of new sensations, and a bit of aching is often just part of the adjustment. Knowing the signs worth acting on means you can take the milder aches more in your stride, and get support quickly on the rare occasions it is needed.