Stomach pain during pregnancy

Pain in the upper stomach during pregnancy can be a normal part of the process as your body changes to accommodate the growing baby. Although there are many harmless causes of this abdominal pain, some of them can be more serious. It is important for a mother-to-be to learn about all possible causes so that you can recognize the symptoms that may be bothering you.

Common causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy

Some abdominal pain during pregnancy is quite common and usually does not pose a threat to you and your baby.

Pain in the round ligament: may be characterized by a sharp throbbing pain when changing position or aching, dull, constant pain. Round ligament pain is caused by two large ligaments that run from the uterus to the groin. As the uterus grows, these ligaments stretch and cause discomfort. This pain is usually reported in the second trimester and is considered harmless.
Gas and constipation: Gas during pregnancy is caused by increased levels of progesterone. As more of this hormone is released, the work of the gastrointestinal tract slows down, slowing down the transport of food. Drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, exercising, and using stool softeners are all great ways to combat excessive gas and constipation.
Braxton Hicks contractions: Sometimes referred to as "training contractions," Braxton Hicks contractions are more of a mild annoyance than a risk to you or your baby. Many women report that Braxton Hicks feels like a tightening of the abdominal muscles, which is why the abdomen feels hard or firm. It is important to distinguish between Braxton Hicks contractions and real contractions. The actual contractions will be closer together, last longer, and be painful. Real contractions will leave you breathless, so a general rule of thumb is that if you're able to continue with your normal activities, it's most likely Braxton Hicks. In addition, doctors report that Braxton Hick can be caused by dehydration, so drinking plenty of water can help correct this problem.
Common discomfort: In addition to those listed above, there are several other common abdominal discomforts that can occur during pregnancy and are usually not a threat. Your growing uterus, stomach viruses, kidney stones, fibroids, and food intolerances are all acceptable forms of harmless stomach pain.

When the stomach hurts during pregnancy

Although many women with abdominal pain have healthy pregnancies, there are times when abdominal pain can pose a serious risk. If you experience severe symptoms such as those described below, contact your doctor immediately.

Ectopic pregnancy: Occurs in 1 in 50 pregnancies, an ectopic pregnancy occurs when an egg is implanted in a place other than the uterus. Most often, the egg is implanted in the fallopian tube. Unfortunately, an ectopic pregnancy cannot continue to term and requires treatment. In the unlikely event that you have an ectopic pregnancy, you may experience severe pain and bleeding between the 6th and 10th weeks of pregnancy. Women at increased risk of ectopic pregnancy include those who have had an ectopic pregnancy in the past or who had endometriosis, tubal ligation, or an intrauterine device at the time of conception.
Placental abruption: Placental abruption is a life-threatening condition in which the placenta separates from the uterus before the baby is born. The symptom of placental abruption is constant pain that causes the stomach to remain hard for a long period without relief. Another sign is bloody fluid or premature rupture of the waters. Other symptoms include abdominal tenderness, back pain, or bleeding fluid.
Miscarriage: The sad truth is that 15-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, making it the most common form of miscarriage. Sometimes referred to as "spontaneous abortion," miscarriage most often occurs during the first 13 weeks of pregnancy. Signs of a miscarriage include mild to severe back pain, true contractions (occurring every 5 to 20 minutes), brown or bright red bleeding with or without spasms, discharge of tissue or clots from the vagina, and a sudden decrease in other signs. pregnancy.
Urinary tract infections: although they are easy to treat during pregnancy, if ignored, urinary tract infections can lead to complications. Urinary tract infections, most often recognized by pain, discomfort, and/or burning when urinating, can also cause pain in the lower abdomen. If you notice pain in your lower back, on the sides of your body below your chest, or above your pelvic bone, as well as fever, nausea, sweating, or chills, the infection may have spread to your kidneys from your urinary tract. If this is the case, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia is a pregnancy condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Pain in the upper abdomen, usually under the ribs on the right side, may accompany other symptoms used to diagnose preeclampsia. Nausea, vomiting, and increased pressure on the abdomen are additional symptoms that will affect your abdomen.