Cramps in the legs or abdomen which are mild and infrequent might not require medical attention. Cramps & nausea - pregnancyhas one or both of these symptoms. They are not harmful to the health of the mother or the child. But if they are severe and persistent the mother has to be hospitalized.

Approximately two-thirds of pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting during the first three months of pregnancy. It is commonly referred to as morning sickness. It is an expected symptom which subsides during the second trimester.

During the early stages of pregnancy, cramps in the abdomen may be caused due to accumulation of gas or constipation. Sometimes after sexual intercourse the increased circulation to the genitalia during orgasm may cause cramps.

Cramps in the legs may be caused due to the growing fetus in the uterus which enlarges and exerts pressure on the veins of the leg. It may also be due to calcium or magnesium deficiency. Very rarely DVT might be causing leg cramps.

Cramps in the legs can be relieved by stretching the legs and getting a massage done. Regular exercise will prevent any circulatory disturbances and ward off chances of cramps. Calcium supplements along with prenatal vitamins might be recommended by the doctor for leg cramps.

During early pregnancy, cramping along with bleeding or spotting might indicate a possible miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Post fertilization after the egg gets implanted in the uterus; there are cramps in the abdomen called implantation cramps.

During late pregnancy, the uterus stretches to accommodate the growing fetus. This causes enlargement of the round ligament of the uterus resulting in cramps. Cramping along with diarrhea and back pain during the third trimester might indicate premature labor or preterm labor.

Cramps & nausea - pregnancy: These are expected symptoms and can be taken care of by doing stretching exercises, taking rest, changing positions or ingesting calcium supplements along with prenatal vitamins. If the pain is persistent and severe along with symptoms like fever, diarrhea, backache, and vaginal bleeding the mother should be hospitalized immediately to rule out any other possible causes.