Abdominal pain during pregnancy is not uncommon, and many women experience it during different stages of pregnancy. Feeling discomfort and abdominal pain is quite normal as your body goes through significant changes to accommodate the growing baby. Women experience mild and dull pain in their pregnancy as the uterus expands, and the organs feel the pressure as the baby grows in size. The pain can occur in the upper or lower abdomen and is seldom a sign of something serious. Learn about what causes abdominal pain during pregnancy and when to consult a doctor.
Common Causes of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
Almost all women experience abdominal pain at some point in their pregnancy, and it generally does not cause any harm to the baby or the mother.
- Growing Uterus: As the uterus expands, it shifts your bowel, resulting in abdominal bloating and a sensation of fullness. It is also accompanied by either sharp pains or a mild pulling sensation.
- Round Ligament Pain: When the uterus stretches to make space for the growing baby, the two large round ligaments that pass through the groin from the uterus also expand, which can cause sharp or dull pain in the abdomen, as well as in the hip and groin. Women experience round ligament pain usually in the last half of pregnancy when they cough, sneeze, or change their position suddenly. Round ligament pain usually goes away on its own.
- Constipation and Gas: Constipation and gas are quite common in pregnant women. When progesterone increases, it slows down the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. A diet lacking fiber, lack of exercise, inadequate water intake, and anxiety can lead to constipation. It can cause cramping or stabbing pain in the abdomen. Eating fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water can help deal with constipation. Pregnant women should avoid foods that create gas in the stomach, such as fried food, carbonated beverages, spicy food, and dairy products.
Braxton Hicks Contractions: Also known as practice contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions can be mild but annoying. Some women may feel they are going into premature labor because of these contractions, but unlike real labor contractions, these go away when you change positions and do not come at regular intervals. Braxton Hicks contractions usually occur in the third trimester and don’t get progressively more painful as labor contractions do. Sometimes dehydration can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, so pregnant women must drink plenty of water.
Also Read: Autoimmune Disorders That Can Complicate Pregnancy
Treatments for Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
Since abdominal pain is rarely a symptom of serious conditions in pregnant women, taking care of a few things can help ease the pain.
If you are sitting or lying down, remember to get up slowly to reduce round ligament pain. When you feel like coughing or sneezing, bending your hips will also reduce pain. Stretching your body every day will also help reduce round ligament pain. Include more fiber in your diet and drink plenty of fluids. Remember to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day and avoid foods that can cause gas.
