Sharp pain during pregnancy

The difference between normal pain during pregnancy and the possible complications of acute pain during pregnancy can be stressful, especially in first-time laborers. During pregnancy, your body will undergo many changes as it adapts to the growing life within you. You will gain weight and your body will grow to accommodate your new baby. While this is natural and necessary, it can cause some discomfort.

Possible causes of sharp pain during pregnancy

One of the most common sharp pains reported by women is a shooting pain in the uterus, abdomen, or groin. While this can be uncomfortable, in many cases it can be explained by the normal changes that occur during pregnancy.

Some common reasons include:

Cramping – You may experience sharp pain due to the cramping that occurs from the uterus expanding
Gas and Bloating
Constipation
Pain in the round ligament. Round ligament pain may occur in the second trimester and cause acute abdominal pain on one or both sides. The pain is caused by stretching of the ligaments that support the uterus as the uterus grows.

Although the above conditions are part of a normal pregnancy, they usually do not cause severe pain. If acute pain is localized on one side, this may be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. This is a serious condition that requires emergency medical attention.

An impending miscarriage can also lead to sharp pain due to spasms. This is of concern to mothers-to-be who want to know the difference between normal cramps associated with uterine enlargement and cramps of an impending miscarriage.

Seeing a doctor to discuss your symptoms is always the right choice.

Warning signs/symptoms of sharp pain during pregnancy

While acute pain may be the result of a normal pregnancy, there are some warning signs to look out for if acute pain is the result of a complication.
If the pain is accompanied by vomiting, fever, chills, profuse bleeding/bleeding, or changes in vaginal discharge
If acute pain continues after rest or adaptation (round ligament pain should not last more than a few minutes)
If the pain interferes with breathing, walking, or speaking
If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Cope with pain during pregnancy

If you are experiencing sharp or throbbing pain during pregnancy, there are possible solutions you can try to relieve:

Pregnancy safe stretches
Breathing exercises/controlled breathing
Experiment with sleeping and sitting positions
Go on a walk

Again, if the pain gets too intense or interferes with your daily activities, see your doctor right away. See your doctor for other pregnancy-safe pain relief ideas.