Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Key Takeaways

• Common Causes: Abdominal pain during pregnancy can often be attributed to the baby’s growth and uterine expansion, round ligament pain, Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), gastroenteritis, constipation, trapped wind, and gas due to increased progesterone levels.

• Serious Causes: More serious concerns include placental abruption, preterm labour, preeclampsia, ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), appendicitis, and gallstones.

• Coping Mechanisms: Effective strategies include rest, warm baths/showers, therapeutic exercises like yoga and aerobics, clinical rehabilitation for low back pain, and dietary adjustments such as avoiding heavy and spicy foods.

Pregnancy Stomach Pain: Normal or Cause for Concern?

Pregnancy is a time of incredible change, both emotionally and physically. As your body works to nurture your growing baby, you may experience various aches and pains, the most common being back pain and abdominal discomfort. While some abdominal pain during pregnancy is normal, certain types of pain can signal a more serious issue. It’s important to understand the different causes of abdominal pain and when to seek medical attention. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy, discuss how to cope with the pain, and help you determine when it’s time to see your gynaecologist.

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Abdominal pain is a common complaint during pregnancy and can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy include:

Digestive Issues

As your uterus grows, it can put pressure on your stomach and intestines, leading to digestive issues such as:

• Bloating

• Gas

• Constipation

• Heartburn and acid reflux

These symptoms are usually harmless but can cause discomfort and abdominal pain.

Round Ligament Pain

As your uterus expands, the round ligaments that support it stretch and thicken. This can cause a sharp, stabbing pain on one or both sides of your lower abdomen. Round ligament pain is most common during the second trimester and is usually harmless.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as false labour, are sporadic uterine contractions that can cause abdominal pain and tightening. They are most common in the third trimester and are usually not a cause for concern.

Serious Causes of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

While most cases of abdominal pain during pregnancy are harmless, there are some serious causes that require immediate medical attention:

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Symptoms may include:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Vaginal bleeding

• Shoulder pain

• Lightheadedness or fainting

If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening.

Placental Abruption

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery. Symptoms may include:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Vaginal bleeding

• Uterine tenderness

• Contractions

Placental abruption can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby and requires immediate medical attention.

Preterm Labour

Preterm labour is labour that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms may include:

• Regular contractions

• Abdominal pain or pressure

• Lower back pain

• Vaginal discharge or bleeding

If you suspect preterm labour, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Other serious causes include appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix), gallstones, preeclampsia (characterised by high blood pressure), and urinary tract infections.

Abdominal Pain in the Three Pregnancy Trimesters

The causes of abdominal pain can vary depending on the stage of your pregnancy.

First Trimester

In the first trimester, common causes of abdominal pain include:

• Implantation cramps

• Digestive issues

• Ectopic pregnancy

If you experience severe or one-sided abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, or shoulder pain, seek medical attention immediately.

Second and Third Trimesters

In the second and third trimesters, common causes of abdominal pain include:

1. Round ligament pain

2. Braxton Hicks contractions

3. Preterm labour

4. Placental abruption

If you experience severe or persistent abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, or regular contractions, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Coping With Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

If you’re experiencing mild abdominal pain during pregnancy, there are several ways to find relief:

• Rest and relaxation: Take breaks throughout the day and get plenty of sleep at night.

• Gentle exercise: Walking, prenatal yoga, and stretching can help alleviate abdominal pain and improve overall comfort.

• Heat therapy: Applying a warm compress or taking a warm bath can help soothe sore muscles and ease cramping.

• Proper nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to prevent constipation and other digestive issues.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and prevent constipation.

If your abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or regular contractions, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

When to see a doctor

While mild abdominal pain is common during pregnancy, there are some signs and symptoms that require immediate medical attention:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain

• Vaginal bleeding

• Regular contractions

• Fever

• Chills

• Painful urination

• Lightheadedness or fainting

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away. They can help determine the cause of your abdominal pain and provide appropriate treatment.