Many women find that they experience period-like twinges in early pregnancy, as their womb is growing and their ligaments are stretching. They may also – or instead – have a feeling of fullness and heaviness, or a dull aching feeling, in their lower abdomen. Although these may be worrying, they’re not usually a sign of anything being wrong. If you have severe or persistent pains, though, or there’s any bleeding associated with them (especially if it’s heavy), you should contact your doctor or midwife.