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Pain in the lower abdomen of a pregnant woman. What do pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy say: possible causes and methods of treatment. Premature placental abruption

Pulling pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy always causes fear and horror in women in position. Yes, losing a pregnancy, especially a long-awaited one, or getting critical complications that are fraught with impaired development of the baby is a gloomy prospect.

And sometimes it is very difficult even for a specialist to figure out what is the cause of such a symptom and how dangerous it is.

Therefore, pregnant women with such manifestations should definitely talk about this complaint to the gynecologist. And the doctor, in turn, must examine the patient and exclude the pathological course of pregnancy.

The doctor will purposefully interview the future mother about the nature of the pain, their intensity, exact localization. It will definitely clarify what the pregnant woman herself associates with the appearance of pain.

For example, pain in the lower abdomen can occur after physical or emotional overstrain, strong feelings. Pain may occur even when coughing, sneezing or taking a deep breath.

Because drawing pains can also occur in the pathology of organs adjacent to the uterus, then the specialist will clarify whether there is a connection between these symptoms and the work of the intestines or urinary system.

Causes

Above, I have listed an incomplete list of situations in which pregnant women can get sick in the stomach. But these are not causes, but external manifestations, symptoms of these causes. The reasons themselves will be discussed below.

Among the causes of pulling pains in the lower abdomen, two groups can be distinguished - physiological and pathological.

Physiological can be called the reasons that naturally arise in the body of all, without exception, women who are carrying a child. After all, the body of a woman during this period undergoes a lot of changes.

For example, the very enlargement of the uterus can already cause discomfort in the lower abdomen.

This is a completely natural change. As a rule, it does not entail any negative consequences for the body of the expectant mother and baby. Although discomfort, of course, creates. These pains go away on their own and do not require any treatment.

Pathological causes will include those changes in the body of a woman in position that can lead to a deterioration in the health of the mother or fetus. And here it is important not to miss a dangerous situation and seek help from a specialist in time.

Yes, pulling pain in the lower abdomen, especially on early dates, may be related to some physiological processes in the body of a pregnant woman. But it doesn't necessarily have to show up.

Painful sensations at the beginning of pregnancy in a certain physiological situation may or may not be. Every woman begins and ends pregnancy differently. All processes are individual.

Here it is worth mentioning the pain threshold, the level of which is different for each person. That is, each person experiences pain in their own way.

For example, women with a low pain threshold are more susceptible to any pain, discomfort, and stretching of the abdomen. At the same time, women with a high pain threshold do not pay attention to irregular, monotonous, pulling pain in the lower abdomen.

So, let's move on to the physiological changes in the body of a pregnant woman, which can provoke pain in the lower abdomen on early stages pregnancy.

With the onset of pregnancy, the shape of the uterus changes from pear-shaped to ovoid. The blood supply to this genital organ also increases, which can provoke sipping in the lower abdomen.

On the seventh day after conception, the fertilized egg (zygote), having descended through the fallopian tube into the uterine cavity, seems to drill a place for itself in the uterine wall in order to fix itself there. At the same time, sensitive women may experience pains similar to menstrual periods.


In some cases, this may be accompanied by scanty bloody or bloody discharge from the vagina, which women may perceive as the start of menstruation ahead of time.

changes during pregnancy hormonal background, which helps to relax muscles and ligaments, especially the muscles of the small pelvis.

Muscle relaxation is promoted by the hormone progesterone. It is also called a hormone that preserves pregnancy, as it prevents excessive tonic contraction (hypertonicity) of the muscles in the body of a pregnant woman. This also applies to the muscles of the main muscular organ - the uterus.

Under the influence of progesterone and another important substance, relaxin, loosening of the ligaments of the joints, cartilage of the joints of the pelvic bones occurs.

The pelvic bones diverge slightly, adjusting to the increasing load of the weighty uterus. The volume of the pelvis increases, which ensures an easier passage of the baby through the birth canal.

But at the same time, not only the muscles of the uterus relax, but also the muscular layer of the intestine. This leads to violations of intestinal motility in pregnant women. As a result, flatulence or unstable stools (either constipation or diarrhea) are frequent companions of pregnancy.

Such phenomena, as a rule, always make themselves felt by symptoms of fullness, heaviness and sipping of the lower abdominal segment.

Therefore, discomfort in the lower abdomen in pregnant women may not always be associated with changes in the pelvic organs.

Physiological changes that cause pain in the later stages

The fact is that this time is characterized by the most intensive growth and high physical activity of the baby. The uterus also grows intensively and strongly overstretches. Additionally, the muscle fibers of the uterus react by contraction to the motor activity of the fetus.

As a result of the action of all these processes in combination, a rare, non-intense sipping of the lower abdominal segment in the middle of pregnancy and in the later stages takes place.

And it happens quite often in expectant mothers. In late pregnancy, starting from about the 37th week, a short and moderate pulling pain in the lower abdomen is considered quite normal.

So the woman's body is already preparing for childbirth. The uterus begins to contract periodically. There are so-called training fights.

This stage of "training" or, in other words, "warm-up" is very important in the process of preparing for childbirth. After all, childbirth is not a spontaneous process, as it might seem at first glance. The launch of labor activity occurs in stages and not quickly.

If the gestational age is more than 37 weeks, the pregnancy is considered full-term. Therefore, when at such a time the pulling pain grows and turns into cramping, it's time to get ready for the hospital.

How to distinguish the physiological causes of pulling pain in the lower abdomen?

To do this, you need to carefully listen to the nature of the pain, trace its connection with other signs of dysfunction of internal organs (for example, the intestines).

Obviously, no two pregnancies are the same. Each stage is different for everyone. But there are several signs of a pulling pain in the lower abdomen that does not require medical intervention.

These include:

  • The pain is not constant, not intense, monotonous, not cramping or sharp.
  • The pain disappears after a short rest in a horizontal position.
  • The pain does not increase and does not interfere with the woman's daily activities (does not drastically disrupt her usual way of life).
  • At the same time, there is no bloody or bloody discharge from the vagina.
  • There are no other signs of dysfunction of internal organs. For example, there are no signs of digestive or urinary disorders (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, general malaise, urinary disorders).
  • Taking one tablet of No-shpa or another antispasmodic (if there are no contraindications) steadily relieves pulling pain in the lower abdomen.
  • In addition to pain, there are no other signs of impaired well-being.

That is, there is no reduction blood pressure, palpitations, increased sweating or cold clammy sweat, clouding of consciousness or pre-syncope. These signs are manifestations of dangerous pathologies that require urgent medical intervention (for example, rupture of the fallopian tube during ectopic pregnancy).

Pathological causes of pulling pain in the lower abdomen

In this block of the article, we will consider the causes of the so-called obstetric pain associated with abortion, ectopic pregnancy, etc. We will also talk about the causes of pulling pain associated with any surgical pathology of pregnancy (appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, etc.).

Obstetric pain: how to recognize and how to be examined?

Drawing pain in the lower abdomen may indicate an ectopic pregnancy. In an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo is fixed not in the uterine cavity, as usual, but in the fallopian tube itself.

Much less often, but there are cases when a fertilized egg can be implanted even in abdominal cavity.


With an ectopic pregnancy, a woman in such cases is disturbed by regular severe pain. One-sided localization of pain is characteristic (from the side of the attached embryo in the fallopian tube).

The pain usually increases as the embryo grows. The pain is often aggravated by pressure or exercise. Irradiation of pain in the lower back, anus or legs is also characteristic.

By the fifth to seventh weeks of pregnancy, the embryo occupies a significant part of the fallopian tube. Therefore, at this time there is a real threat of rupture of the pipe and massive bleeding.

Smearing bloody discharge from the vagina appears. At the same time, symptoms of general malaise join: dizziness, headache, weakness, and blood pressure decreases.

With an ectopic pregnancy, the test is positive, but the content of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in the blood is reduced. Ultrasound is helpful in diagnosing this condition.

At early diagnosis it is possible to save the fallopian tube by performing a timely operation. But an ectopic pregnancy in terms of its continuation is always doomed to failure.

Threat of abortion

With the threat of termination of pregnancy, a woman is disturbed by pulling pains in the lower abdomen, which do not subside even in a calm state. Any physical activity causes increased pain.

Characterized by the appearance of bloody discharge of varying intensity. The woman feels general weakness, lethargy. Often there is a darkening or "flies" in the eyes, dizziness. In late pregnancy, such symptoms may be accompanied by cramping pain.

This condition requires emergency care, you need to urgently contact a medical institution.

Hospitalization in case of threatened miscarriage is mandatory. Do not try to avoid it, as both the child and the mother need constant monitoring and complex treatment.

The emergence of a threat of termination of pregnancy is often caused by nervous overstrain, physical exertion, stress, infectious diseases, and changes in hormonal levels.

Often, the threat of abortion is preceded by uterine hypertonicity. Women, in addition to pulling pain, feel a sharp tension in the uterus. They describe this feeling as if they have a "hardening of the stomach."

It is impossible to treat such a symptom without due attention. After all, an increased tone of the uterus can provoke a miscarriage.

With timely detection and competent therapy, this pathology has a favorable prognosis.

Frozen pregnancy

Another cause of pulling pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy is a frozen pregnancy. The reasons why the embryo stops developing may be malfunctions at the gene level, hormonal imbalance, and the wrong lifestyle of the parents. There is also a high risk of “embryo freezing” during artificial insemination.

The so-called critical periods of the course of pregnancy are distinguished, when the embryo is especially vulnerable. There are several of them: first it is 3-4 weeks of pregnancy, then - 8-11 weeks and 16-18 weeks of intrauterine development.

Sometimes women with a missed pregnancy may not have any complaints at all. But more often there is some kind of discomfort or pulling pain in the lower abdomen is periodically felt.

Diagnosis of this condition is to conduct an ultrasound study.

The diagnosis of a missed pregnancy is confirmed if the baby's heartbeat is not detected during an ultrasound scan.

Also, to confirm the diagnosis, the level of hCG in the venous blood of a pregnant woman is determined. With a frozen pregnancy, there is no increase in the concentration of this hormone in the blood.

Premature placental abruption

Premature placental abruption can occur at any stage of pregnancy. Placental abruption can be caused by trauma, sudden changes in blood pressure, an infectious disease, physical exertion, emotional stress, and a short umbilical cord of the fetus.

With premature detachment of the placenta, a woman feels sharp or cramping pains in the lower abdomen. In order to somehow alleviate the condition, a woman often takes a forced position. That is, she tries to find the most comfortable position and stay in that position for a long time.

The uterus is very tense, it becomes painful. Inside the uterus, a vessel ruptures, as a result of which bleeding opens. Bleeding can be of varying degrees of intensity. There is an increase in placental hematoma (bruising).

The main danger of placental abruption is malnutrition of the fetus (oxygen starvation). With a significant degree of detachment, there is a threat of intrauterine death of the fetus.

Thus, placental abruption is a reason for emergency hospitalization and, if the duration of pregnancy allows, operative delivery by caesarean section.

Quite often, a woman has pulling pains in the lower abdomen that are not associated with the development of the fetus. But the conditions that will be discussed further are no less dangerous for the health of the expectant mother and her baby.

Often, due to a decrease in immune defense, a pregnant woman develops various inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system or exacerbates existing chronic diseases.

So, some infections, including those that are sexually transmitted, worsen during pregnancy. They can also cause discomfort and pain in the lower abdomen.

To exclude acute or chronic inflammatory processes, a pregnant woman, when registering in a antenatal clinic, must undergo a full examination.

In pregnant women, various infections of the kidneys and genitourinary system are often observed. The most common infection during pregnancy that can cause nagging pain in the lower abdomen is acute cystitis (inflammation Bladder).


With cystitis, in addition to pain, a woman is concerned about frequent and / or painful urination, “false” urges or urination in small portions, a feeling incomplete emptying Bladder. Urine becomes cloudy due to impurities of protein, leukocytes, mucus, salts, and sometimes blood.

In this case, you can not do without specific treatment. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a doctor for examination and treatment of this unpleasant disease.

Drawing pain in the lower abdomen can also provoke digestive problems.

I already wrote about the relaxing effect of progesterone on the intestines above. As a result, almost every woman suffers to some extent from violations of work. gastrointestinal tract during pregnancy (constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, heartburn, nausea).

There are drugs that help normalize intestinal motility and fight increased gas formation. But only a doctor who knows all the nuances of the ongoing pregnancy has the right to prescribe them.

But any therapy to normalize the functioning of the digestive system will give only a partial result, temporarily extinguish the symptoms of the disorder. After all, the above problems with digestion cause completely natural changes in the body of a pregnant woman (hormonal background).

Imagine what will happen if errors in the nutrition of a pregnant woman are added to these regular changes! That's right, there will be more problems with pain, and they will become more acute.

I deliberately focus on this point, because I know from experience that almost none of the pregnant women take seriously the doctor's recommendations for a healthy lifestyle.

Many justify themselves with the traditional stereotype that a pregnant woman should not deny herself anything. Like, the child needs, he demands.

Although, in fact, this is the most proper nutrition» during pregnancy is not so difficult. You just need not to overeat, eat often, but in fractional portions, drink enough pure water, exclude fast food and harmful drinks. At the same time, no one encourages a pregnant woman to starve or limit herself in any products.

A little distracted, back to the topic directly.

Pulling pain in the lower abdomen can be provoked by various surgical pathologies.

It is not uncommon for women to have an inflamed appendix during pregnancy. At the same time, due to the displacement of the internal organs and intestines by the pregnant uterus, it is not always easy to recognize appendicitis by the localization of pain.


Appendicitis is characterized by aching dull pain, usually in the right iliac region or slightly higher. There is also an increase in temperature in the range of 37-38 ° C, nausea, more often single vomiting.

These signs are, of course, a reason for calling an ambulance and hospitalization in a hospital.

I hasten to reassure that the operation in this pathology will not affect the development of the child. But delay with such symptoms can lead to massive inflammation inside the abdominal cavity - peritonitis.

Rarely enough, but there are cases of intestinal obstruction in pregnant women. Pain in intestinal obstruction is sharp, cramping, diffuse, with clearly recurring attacks every 10-15 minutes (as a peristaltic wave goes through the intestines).

In this case, in addition to pain in the abdomen, there will be a delay in feces and gases. The abdomen is swollen asymmetrically, appetite is reduced, there is a feeling of weakness. Over time, more formidable signs of pathology will appear, in particular, repeated indomitable vomiting, which leads to rapid dehydration of the body.

In case of intestinal obstruction, emergency surgical intervention is indicated.

On a note!

Summing up, I will highlight a few critical symptoms that urgently need to seek medical help.

  • Regular pains in the lower abdomen are sharp and growing.
  • Pain does not go away after resting in a horizontal position.
  • Cramping pains in the lower abdomen, regardless of their intensity.
  • Vaginal discharge (bloody, bloody, spotting).
  • Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, vomiting, stool changes).
  • Increasing pain with pressure at the site of pain, regardless of the localization of pain.

Undoubtedly, there are a lot of reasons due to which the lower abdomen is pulled during pregnancy. Probably, I did not manage to describe them all, I missed something. But it's not that important.

It is important that you draw the main conclusion from this article: in any case, you need to be attentive to yourself, listen to new sensations so as not to miss a dangerous situation and seek medical help in time

And even if you once again consult a doctor observing your pregnancy for a frivolous reason, than miss something serious.

Threat of abortion

Aching and pulling pain syndrome, radiating to the lumbar region. Quite often it is accompanied by spotting spotting. After some time and lack of proper medical treatment, bleeding increases, contractions occur, the cervix becomes significantly shortened, and preterm labor/miscarriage occurs.

Pathologies of the development of the unborn child can provoke this condition, severe stress, powerful physical activity, etc.

Ectopic pregnancy

Pain in the lower abdomen can occur when the fetus is implanted outside the main uterine cavity. Most often, the fetal egg is localized in the tube and the miscarriage that occurs makes itself felt with sharp pain and strong contractions on the one hand, while small spotting is observed.

At a later date, an ectopic pregnancy can lead to rupture of the tube - cramping pains are replaced by severe pain with irradiation to the pelvic region, ribs, loss of consciousness, intra-abdominal bleeding.

Premature placental abruption

This negative state can form both in and during childbirth. Increase the risk of detachment of preeclampsia, anomalies of labor, abdominal trauma, short umbilical cord, arterial hypertension.

There is practically no discharge in this situation, but at the same time there are severe pains in the lower abdomen, the doctor detects signs of hypoxia / internal bleeding in the fetus. The uterus is in a constant tone, placental hematoma gradually increases.

Acute surgical pathologies

Pancreatitis, appendicitis, intestinal obstruction and others pathological conditions may cause . At the same time, the diagnosis of the above diseases and problems is often difficult, especially in the later stages of bearing a child. In the vast majority of cases, in addition to pain, there are accompanying symptoms in the form of weakness, malaise, fever and dyspeptic disorders.

Problems with the work of the gastrointestinal tract

Against the background of hormonal changes, malnutrition, low mobility and other negative factors, problems with the gastrointestinal tract may occur. Constipation, bloating, and other problems often provoke pain in the lower abdomen.

Stretching of the ligaments/muscles of the abdominal and pelvic bones

In the first trimester, aching pains in the lower abdomen without contractions can occur due to rapid physiological changes in the body, in particular due to softening of the tissue structures of the uterus and related organs. Their localization is not entirely clear, but, as a rule, they are diagnosed on both sides of the midline.

With the growth of the fetus, the uterus also changes in size, increasing the additional load on the ligaments of the small pelvis. Together with the displacement of individual organs, strong pressure is experienced abdominal Press. Most often, such a painful aching syndrome with tingling occurs by the end of the second trimester of pregnancy and can continue until childbirth. This symptom is especially pronounced in multiple pregnancy or a very large child. Often, it may be accompanied by an umbilical hernia.

In late pregnancy, in the process of preparing the future baby for childbirth, the pelvic bones begin to diverge slightly, which in turn provokes the appearance pain syndrome medium intensity.

The above types of problems are related to physiological reasons and do not require special medical treatment.

Any measures related to the treatment and elimination of the symptom of pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy can only be carried out after a comprehensive comprehensive diagnosis and correct diagnosis, as well as determining the true cause of the pain syndrome.

  1. With the threat of termination of pregnancy. Sedatives, antispasmodics are prescribed, which relieve the tone of the uterus, as well as general strengthening vitamin therapy. In addition, with a hormonal factor, the doctor recommends undergoing therapy with a synthetic analogue of progesterone, in some cases a special ring is placed on the cervix to prevent its premature opening.
  2. With an ectopic pregnancy. The only way is to get rid of an ectopic pregnancy - abortion in the early stages, removal of the fetal egg, in some cases, partial or complete removal of the tube. Wherein modern methods and equipment allow you to restore reproductive function organism.
  3. With placental abruption. Depending on the extent and degree of complexity of the detachment, bed rest, antispasmodics (Drotaverine, Magnesia), hemostatic agents (Vikasol, ascorbic acid), iron preparations, as well as tocolytic therapy (Ginipral and other drugs that relax uterine tone) are prescribed. In some cases, with the rapid progression of the problem, a caesarean section is prescribed, or the amniotic bladder is pierced and the woman gives birth on her own.
  4. In acute surgical pathologies. Appendicitis, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction and other diseases / pathological conditions require during pregnancy special attention and guardianship, because any surgical intervention can adversely affect the health of the mother and unborn child. Decisions on the appointment of drug therapy, surgery and other actions are taken by a special council of qualified doctors.
  5. Physiological problems. Recommended special diets, light but regular physical activity, tonic.

Useful video

Pain in the lower abdomen in women

Why does my stomach hurt in the early stages of pregnancy?

Most women complain that they have pain in the lower abdomen in the early stages of pregnancy. This happens during normal childbearing, but sometimes it can serve as a signal of illness.

Pregnancy is not a disease, but carries an increased emotional and physical activity for the woman's body.

Periods from 2 to 3, from 3 to 9, from 9 to 12 weeks of pregnancy are considered dangerous. It is necessary to be attentive to health, to observe changes, especially at these times.

You should not take independent steps, you need to contact the doctor.

Variety of reasons

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes great changes. There is a huge restructuring of all functions according to the needs of the fetus, which is why in some cases pain is felt.

The causes of pain in the early stages are divided into:

  • obstetric (they will be associated with pregnancy);
  • non-obstetric (associated with pathologies of organs that are not related to the reproductive system).

There are also so-called physiological pains that are observed at the very beginning of pregnancy. They do not cause discomfort, sometimes they are completely invisible.

The first painful sensations begin about a week after fertilization, when the fetal egg is introduced into the endometrium. It is possible that a few drops of blood will be released.

A woman may not pay attention to the pulling feeling from the lower abdomen, taking it for premenstrual syndrome.

The cause of pain in the early stages will be a change in the hormonal background, that is, an increase in progesterone in the blood. At this time, the ligaments will stretch, the center of gravity will change.

Physiological pains do not increase, they are localized in the lower abdomen, often radiate to the lower back. If a woman is worried about this, you can consult a gynecologist.

Reasons based on pregnancy

On the early stages gestation, the stomach hurts with the diagnosis of "ectopic pregnancy". This happens when a fertilized egg joins before reaching the uterus, on the ovaries or fallopian tubes.

The fetus is not capable of developing in such places, which is why the woman begins to feel pain in this place. When the fetal egg grows, does not fit in the place of attachment, it bursts at a short time of development.

This is accompanied by acute pain, severe bleeding, dizziness, fainting.

Doctors try at the initial stages to detect the incorrect attachment of the fetal egg and not lead to a rupture.

Then at his small sizes There is an option to delete.

Another reason is the threat of miscarriage. At the beginning of gestation, for some reason, detachment of the fetal egg may occur. Signs will be pain in the lower abdomen, uterine bleeding.

When such symptoms appear, call ambulance.

You can not take independent measures, it is categorically not recommended to apply cold or a heating pad to the stomach when it hurts. Timely treatment will give a positive result.

A corpus luteum cyst is the next possible cause of abdominal pain in a pregnant woman in the early stages. The corpus luteum is a temporary formation that is formed to produce the hormone progesterone in the first months of pregnancy.

Sometimes the corpus luteum accumulates a lot of fluid, becomes larger in size, then a diagnosis is made - a cyst. For a pregnant woman and fetus, this does not pose a threat.

In women with this disease, the stomach hurts in one certain place, but not much, without fever and additional symptoms. For such patients there are special recommendations.

When a corpus luteum cyst ruptures, internal bleeding can open, which is why such a rupture should not be provoked.

Women with a corpus luteum cyst should avoid:

  • long walks;
  • lifting weights at all times;
  • sports activities.

In the early stages of gestation, the development of the fetus may stop, a missed pregnancy may occur. The female body rejects the dead fetus, uterine contraction begins, which is why pain occurs.

It will be acute with increased blood flow. During the examination, the doctor makes sure that there are no parts of the fetus left, examines the condition of the uterine mucosa. With the help of medicines, restores the health of a woman.

Diseases of the internal organs

During the period of bearing a child, chronic diseases begin to worsen, new inflammatory processes appear. With a weak immune system, infection can occur.

So the lower abdomen can hurt from cystitis - inflammation of the bladder. If the disease was chronic form, then it can worsen in the early stages of gestation.

The growing uterus, which puts pressure on the bladder, provokes a decrease in immunity.

During cystitis at all times there is frequent urination with a small amount cloudy urine, sharp pain below the abdomen. Treatment is prescribed by a urologist.

In addition to drug therapy, baths with medicinal herbs. You need to dress according to the season to prevent hypothermia during pregnancy.

Pyelonephritis can give pain in the lower abdomen, in lumbar spine. This inflammatory kidney disease is often accompanied by infection, which is undesirable during pregnancy.

The woman may need hospitalization, possibly antibiotics. It is important to quickly identify the onset of the disease in the early stages, so that the treatment is easier.

Another cause of pain in the initial stages is inflammation of the gallbladder, that is, cholecystitis. It is often accompanied by bouts of nausea, even vomiting.

Abdominal pain may increase with a change in body position. It may be whining. With such symptoms, a woman is hospitalized in a hospital.

During pregnancy, the appendix can become inflamed, which will also cause abdominal pain. Soreness begins on the right side, gradually moving down.

Nausea, vomiting, fever join. characteristic feature Appendicitis is an increasing pain in the lower abdomen when walking.

Other reasons

During pregnancy, pain in the abdomen may occur for other reasons that are not related to gynecology. A woman before pregnancy could have pathologies that are manifested by cramps in the lower abdomen.

With these diseases, fever, vomiting, and a general deterioration in well-being are possible, which is undesirable in the early stages of gestation.

At any time, soreness will be felt from the accumulation of intestinal gases. When eating certain foods that increase gas formation, the intestines swell.

At the beginning of bearing a child, the uterus will also join this process, which gradually increases in size.

It is necessary to reduce the consumption of a large number of sour, salty and spicy foods. Bloating is given by incompatible foods that pregnant women love so much.

Carbonated drinks, mushrooms in any form, canned products, products with vinegar are best excluded throughout the entire period of bearing a child.

You need to be careful about bowel movements. Cases of constipation or diarrhea should be isolated. With prolonged indigestion of food, you should consult a doctor to solve the problem.

At the very beginning of bearing a child and a little later, stagnant feces will poison the body, which will adversely affect health.

We must remember that the baby grows in the uterus. The uterus increases in size, presses on neighboring internal organs, this causes a stomach ache. The ligaments that support the uterus are stretched.

At the very beginning of gestation, it is still difficult for them to stretch, this causes pain. It decreases if you change the position of the body.

If earlier a woman had operations on the pelvic organs with the appearance of adhesions, then they can interfere with the growing uterus.

In the early stages, this will be imperceptible, but then the adhesions will tear, painfully stretch under the pressure of the uterus in the later stages.

When to See a Doctor Urgently

There are situations when a pregnant woman is obliged to consult a doctor at any stage of pregnancy.

Pain, other symptoms signal pathological processes in the body that require immediate medical intervention.

You need to see a doctor at any time if:

  • the pain intensifies, has the character of contractions;
  • the temperature rises;
  • there are discharges;
  • stomach hurts for more than 2 days;
  • pain increases when walking;
  • nausea, vomiting join;
  • pain in the lower abdomen is sharp, cutting, aggravated by urination.

Self-medication is unacceptable. It can harm the child, you should immediately contact an ambulance. This is especially important in the early stages of gestation, when a woman may not be aware of an existing pregnancy.

Carrying out diagnostics

When it hurts in the lower abdomen, you need to see a doctor, even if the woman does not suspect pregnancy.

Many important internal organs are located in this part of the body, and it is sometimes very dangerous to miss their inflammation.

At the beginning of the first trimester, the gynecologist will send the pregnant woman with complaints to the examination.

An ultrasound examination of the abdomen is mandatory.

It reveals pathological disorders in the structure of the reproductive organons, the formation of a neoplasm of a malignant or benign nature, the presence of an ectopic pregnancy.

A more accurate research method is tomography (MRI or CT). In the early stages of gestation, changes in the internal organs of the mother's body can be determined.

If a neoplasm is detected, identify the malignant or benign nature of the tumor.

Laboratory tests of urine and blood are required. They are often handed over, for the timely detection of inflammation in the reproductive system, the mother's body.

Medical assistance

Everything medicines the doctor prescribes. He determines the dosage, regimen of taking drugs, the duration of the course.

Only a specialist can take into account chronic diseases, the condition of a pregnant woman and a child in the early stages of development.

A woman at home is able to adjust her lifestyle in order to reduce pain.

It is useful to actively move, it does not allow bile to stagnate, it helps blood to move from the lower extremities, it is a good prevention of swelling of the legs.

For the work of the intestines throughout pregnancy, you need to eat right. Exclude spices, sauces, spicy seasonings from the diet. Meals should be regular, it is good for bowel function.

The organs of the digestive system are used to producing enzymes at a certain time. Snacking should be avoided, because they affect pregnancy weight, have a bad effect on digestion.

In the last stages, women suffer from constipation, you need to prepare the intestines in advance for this unpleasant situation.

Even at the beginning of gestation, eat more dried apricots, prunes, drink sour-milk drinks for dinner, for example, kefir, fermented baked milk. Such products will help get rid of constipation during pregnancy.

A full bladder should not be tolerated. Its emptying should take place without delay. Soreness in the lower part of the abdominal cavity can cause precisely the pressure of a full bladder on the uterus.

With prolonged sitting, it is useful to change your position more often, this will also help relieve stress and discomfort during pregnancy.

Conclusion

When the stomach hurts, pregnant women often worry. According to them, the child is not well at this time. This is not so, the baby does not feel discomfort.

Often, the lower abdomen contracts a spasm due to the emotional experiences of the expectant mother.

In the early stages of bearing a child, abdominal pain is not dangerous if it is not severe. Women need to calm down, listen to pleasant music, do what they love.

At any time, one must be able to balance one's mental state, although this is not easy, especially when expecting the first child.

You need to consult a doctor, perhaps he will prescribe medicinal sedatives. It's better than experiencing stomach cramps from unbalanced emotions.

Useful video

Why does it hurt, ache, prick the stomach, lower abdomen during pregnancy. Why do pregnant women have a stomach ache like during menstruation.

Pregnancy is, in any case, stressful for female body. His reaction is hard to predict. Some people tolerate their new condition perfectly, while others may experience various problems, including pain in the abdomen.
The reasons for the appearance of such pains in expectant mothers are different, and if they arise, you must, of course, consult a specialist who will help establish their true cause.

The first month of pregnancy and in the early stages, the stomach hurts like during menstruation: causes

From the moment of fertilization of the egg and up to the birth itself, processes occur in the body of the expectant mother that can give painful sensations. And although these feelings are not very pleasant for the expectant mother, neither she nor the baby is in danger.

  1. The fertilized egg moves towards the uterus and settles in it. A fertilized egg, penetrating into the endometrium, irritates or slightly damages the mucous membrane of the uterus or even a small blood vessel. This causes slight pain, similar to those that occur before the onset of her menstruation.
  2. Later, in the first month of pregnancy, the hormonal background of a woman changes dramatically. In particular, progesterone is actively synthesized, which is responsible, among other things, for preparing the endometrial layer so that the fertilized egg is fixed in it, and the pregnancy is carried out normally. It may also cause some pain in the uterine area.
  3. In the same period, the woman's ligaments gradually stretch in anticipation, the state of the spine changes, as changes in the center of gravity of the body occur. After all, the uterus, together with the embryo in it, not only becomes larger, but also changes its position in the nutria of the body. Its bottom rises higher relative to the organs, respectively, the ligaments holding the uterus are stretched
Pain over the pubic bone shortly after conception may accompany the attachment of the embryo to the wall of the uterus.

Ectopic pregnancy

If a woman in the early stages constantly hurts under the navel, pains that increase in intensity, radiating to the leg, hypochondrium, rectum, the gynecologist, first of all, will send her for an ultrasound scan to make sure that the fetal egg is where it should be, in uterine cavity.

Necessary exclude ectopic pregnancy, which happens if the fertilized egg has not completed its passage to the uterus, but has attached itself outside its cavity - in one of the fallopian tubes, the cervix, etc. The fetal egg grows and develops, bursting the fallopian tube. Pain develops. In the end, if this process is not stopped at the start, an overgrown fetal egg, exceeding the diameter of the fallopian tube, can break it.



An ectopic pregnancy is a serious obstetric and gynecological problem and threatens a woman's health with organ rupture and internal bleeding.

The threat of miscarriage

IMPORTANT: A future mother can also get sick in the lower abdomen due to the threat of a miscarriage

  1. The tone of the uterus increases, which provokes detachment of the fetal egg and its expulsion
  2. At the same time, the pregnant woman aches and pulls over the pubic bone, gives to the lower back. She develops bloody discharge - from slight, pinkish, to bright red-scarlet
  3. If there is a suspicion of a threat of spontaneous abortion, the only solution here is an ambulance and hospitalization. While waiting for the arrival of an ambulance, the woman should be at rest


Cyst of the corpus luteum

Pain in the internal genital organs in a pregnant woman may appear due to a cyst of the corpus luteum.



The corpus luteum is a temporary organ that produces progesterone, its function is to maintain pregnancy, the formation of the placenta.
Sometimes it happens that the corpus luteum grows, its dimensions do not correspond to the norm.

This condition is called a corpus luteum cyst. The cyst of the corpus luteum does not pose a particular threat to the pregnant woman, however, it can give not strong and not sharp, but pain localized in one place. With a corpus luteum cyst, a pregnant woman is recommended to rest and some changes in the behavioral regime, which the gynecologist will tell her about.

Relapses of chronic diseases

There is a tendency that during the period of bearing a child, expectant mothers exacerbate those diseases that they chronically suffered from before pregnancy, and from which the lower abdomen hurts.



chronic diseases organs of the abdominal cavity during pregnancy often give a relapse.

For example, if before she became pregnant, a woman had diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or the genitourinary system, then they can become aggravated during pregnancy or due to violations of the regimen.

Appendicitis

IMPORTANT: Appendicitis is another possible cause of abdominal pain in a woman who is expecting a baby.

Improper nutrition

Discomfort is not necessarily associated with " interesting position". Everyone knows the whims of future mothers in food when you want a cake, and after it - with half a jar of pickles, then - sweets, and after them - shrimp. Such sharp jumps in nutrition provoke a violation of intestinal motility, flatulence, and the onset of pain. In order for the discomfort to go away, a woman needs to more or less balance her diet.

VIDEO: Why does my stomach hurt in the early stages of pregnancy?

Why does my stomach hurt at night during pregnancy, like during menstruation?

If the expectant mother does not have chronic diseases and does not have any pathologies associated with bearing a child, in principle, she should not have pain, especially such aching and cramping as during menstruation.



Pain can occur due to the reasons described above, or when:

  • overwork
  • prolonged stay of a woman in one position
  • However, there is a real reason to call an ambulance or at least call your doctor if:

    • a woman painfully feels like a shrinking, pulling and aching lump in the lower abdomen
    • if the discomfort increases both at rest (at night) and after physical overload

    The cause of such sensations may be a cramping contraction of the uterus during an impending or initiated spontaneous abortion.

    IMPORTANT: If the uterus is in hypertonicity, it is tense and hurts, regardless of the time of day. Women often experience similar sensations in the first days of menstruation. Starting from the second half of pregnancy, such a pathological preliminary condition must also be monitored by a doctor.

    Why does the lower abdomen hurt during pregnancy?

    Discomfort in the lower abdomen in a woman who is expecting a baby often occurs when:

    • the uterus grows with the embryo in it
    • tense abdominal muscles
    • the growing uterus changes its position relative to other internal organs - the muscles and ligaments that support it can stretch
      violation and changes in the diet of a pregnant woman
    • disruption of the digestive tract, constipation occurs
    • there is a threat of spontaneous abortion or premature birth
    • the embryo implants outside the uterus
    • extragenital inflammation occurs

    Why does the stomach hurt on the left during pregnancy?



    If a pregnant woman has pain on the left side of her abdomen, an urgent consultation with a doctor is needed.

    In the abdominal cavity and pelvic area of ​​a woman is located a large number of internal organs held by a corset of muscles and ligaments. This explains the fact that if pain occurs, it can not only spread over the stomach, but also be localized in one place or another.

    If it hurts on the left, then it is most likely given by one of the overstretched ligaments that support the grown uterus. Often enough to rest or change the position of the body to feel good.

    There is a possibility of pain syndrome due to inflammation of the organs in the pelvis and abdominal cavity:

    • left ovary
    • left appendage
    • Bladder
    • left kidney

    If the embryo inside the uterus is attached to the left, this sometimes leads to some pain discomfort in the woman due to spasms.

    IMPORTANT: In any case, it is best to ask your doctor about your specific individual reason for such pain.

    Why does the stomach hurt on the right during pregnancy?

    Pain on the right side of the abdomen during pregnancy should be taken more seriously.
    The reasons for it may be:

    1. The fertilized egg is attached to the uterus on the right side, which causes painful spasms in the pregnant woman
    2. Overstretching or pinching of the muscle and ligaments that support the pregnant uterus
    3. The child moves in the uterus on the right side, his tremors for the mother can sometimes be painful for her
    4. The fertilized egg implanted in the right fallopian tube (some symptoms of this: pain in the right abdomen, bleeding, weakness of the woman)
    5. Appendicitis
    6. Infringement of muscles and ligaments, adhesions
    7. Right cyst rupture
    8. Inflammatory processes in the internal organs


    Why does the stomach hurt like during menstruation during pregnancy at 15-16 weeks?

    At 15 - 16 weeks from conception, toxicosis, if it was, disappears. The fruit is actively developing. In a pregnant woman, in the absence of pathologies, it can hurt in the lumbar spine due to the increased load on it. The natural cause of pain, similar to menstrual, may be the growth of the uterus and the restructuring of the musculoskeletal apparatus associated with it.

    Why does the stomach hurt during pregnancy in the 2nd trimester at 20-21 weeks?

    In the middle of pregnancy, the belly of the expectant mother may hurt, again, due to natural causes. But it can also signal varying degrees of serious problems with bearing a baby.

    Physiology can be explained if the lower abdomen of a woman is slightly ill and hurts:

    • occasionally
    • when changing the position of the body
    • overexertion of the abdomen, back or legs

    Perhaps there is a threat of placental abruption or spontaneous abortion if:

    • pain syndrome increases
    • the pain doesn't go away for a long time
    • it radiates to the lower back
    • discharge appeared


    In the second trimester, the expectant mother can be tormented by painful uterine hypertonicity.

    Why does the stomach hurt during pregnancy at 30-31 weeks?

    At 30 - 31 weeks of pregnancy, the weight of the baby in the womb, and, accordingly, of the woman, increases. The load on her spine, organs and joints also increases.
    During this period, the stomach should not hurt, except perhaps if a woman ate something wrong and irritated the intestines, causing flatulence.

    Why does the stomach hurt like during menstruation during pregnancy at 33 weeks?



    Overwork, physical overload and training contractions are the causes of abdominal pain in expectant mothers in the last two months before giving birth.

    Perhaps the uterus began to shrink and there is a risk of premature birth.
    Also, training contractions can give some soreness. To make sure that everything is fine, it is better to contact the gynecologist leading the pregnancy, or call an ambulance.

    Why does the stomach hurt during pregnancy at 35-36 weeks?

    If during this period the stomach not only hurts, but also there is a feeling of its petrification, then the tone of the uterus increases, which can lead to premature birth.

    Why does the stomach hurt during pregnancy at 37-38 weeks?

    At 37 - 38 weeks, the expectant mother's stomach may hurt for quite understandable reasons. Her body is preparing for childbirth, the cervix begins to gradually open. This process is accompanied by cramping aching pains. At this point, you need to relax, take a comfortable position or take a shower.

    Drawing pains in the lower abdomen at 38 weeks means that the uterus is preparing for childbirth, coming into tone and relaxing.

    Why does my stomach hurt during pregnancy at 40-41 weeks?



    The pregnancy period has come to an end, and if a woman has a stomach ache, she may have contractions. Contractions may be minor at first, with significant intervals of time between them. Then they become more frequent, and the period of time between them is reduced. Giving birth soon!

    VIDEO: Signs of the beginning of childbirth. When is it time to go to the hospital?

    During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes a lot of changes aimed at adapting it to bearing a fetus that grows rapidly, exerting pressure on non-surrounding internal organs. Quite often during this period, doctors have to hear that the stomach hurts during pregnancy, and this naturally frightens a woman. Such a problem can be both a natural reaction of the body to changes in it, and a symptom of serious problems when urgent help is required.

    Pregnancy can bring some inconvenience for a woman in terms of well-being and discomfort. In fear for the baby future mom begins to worry sharply, which only exacerbates the situation. It is necessary to understand all the risks in advance and be prepared for the presence of problems, then nervous fears will not interfere with labor, and the doctor will help solve the problem.

    Abdominal pain in women during pregnancy

    Abdominal pain during pregnancy is quite common, it can also be due to natural causes, and be negative, but before panicking and worrying for no clear reason, you should listen to your feelings and make an appointment with a doctor. It will not be superfluous, since nerves must be protected, but it is worth understanding some points yourself.

    Types of abdominal pain during pregnancy

    Painful sensations can be observed in each of the trimesters of pregnancy and be localized in different parts. The following types appear most often:

    • Sharp pains in the groin and pubic area in the early stages (in the first trimester, the presence of pain in the pubic area can be negative. You should immediately consult a doctor);
    • Pain in the pubic area in the later stages (during this period, such pains are considered normal if they are pulling and move from the pubis to the femoral part. This happens because the body is preparing for childbirth. In case of pain when lifting the leg up from a lying position, consult a gynecologist );
    • Feeling of tension in the abdomen (it is considered normal if the pregnancy is going well, in the case of the effect of a “hard stomach”, there may be pathologies);
    • Soreness when pushing a child (the activity of a child in the abdomen can be unpleasant for the mother, but if you can calm the baby, there is nothing to worry about. And if the pushes are too strong, you should consult a doctor to check for hypoxia (oxygen starvation).

    Causes of abdominal pain

    Pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy can be both natural and require emergency care. The first category includes the following points:

    • Minor pulling sensations at 2-3 weeks, when a fertilized egg is implanted in the wall of the uterus;
    • Sharp short-term pain. Aggravated by sudden movement or heavy lifting, in the first trimester due to muscle stretch and tissue softening;
    • Unpleasant sensations in the third trimester due to the movement of the child;
    • Drawing pains from muscle tension and uterine growth in last trimester. As well as a slight discrepancy between the pelvic bones and training contractions.

    To improve the condition when the stomach hurts for natural reasons during pregnancy and the intervention of a doctor is not required, follow the following rules:

    • Walk down the street more often;
    • Avoid overwork and high physical exertion;
    • Do special exercises for pregnant women;
    • Use a bandage in the later stages;
    • Try to get enough sleep (a pillow for pregnant women helps a lot with this).

    A good way to relieve discomfort is to be in the elbow position for 10-15 minutes (you can do this several times a day). This is worth doing if the stomach hurts during pregnancy and the help of a doctor is not required,

    When is medical attention needed?

    Pulling or sharp pains in the lower abdomen during pregnancy may indicate serious problems (if in doubt, it is better to play it safe and consult a doctor for advice). To prevent problems, it is important to know the following main symptoms when an urgent call to a doctor for help is required:

    • Aching pains in the lower abdomen and in the lumbar region, which are accompanied by spotting. In this case, you need to call an ambulance. Since in the absence of adequate treatment, pain can take on a cramping character and there is a risk of spontaneous miscarriage.
    • Sharp pains in the abdomen with simultaneous dizziness may indicate the presence of an ectopic pregnancy. It is determined during an ultrasound examination (most often this problem occurs for a period of 5-7 weeks).
    • If the stomach hurts very sharply and severely in the lower part during pregnancy, then this may indicate premature detachment of the placenta in the uterus. The cause of the latter can be any injury, preeclampsia or a number of other pathologies. In this case, you need to call an ambulance. It may be necessary to induce labor and stop possible internal bleeding.
    • Sharp cramping pains in the lower abdomen during pregnancy, in which it, together with the uterus, becomes hard for a while. We are talking about increased uterine tone, which is dangerous at any stage of pregnancy. This is due to the deterioration of the blood supply to the raft, which leads to a lack of supply of nutrients and oxygen. Here it is important to consult a doctor who will prescribe therapy to reduce tone, and, if necessary, refer you to hospital for inpatient treatment (treatment includes taking antispasmodics, hormonal and other drugs).

    Also, complaints that the stomach hurts during pregnancy may be due to the presence of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. As well as internal organs. Usually a woman knows about them in advance. To prevent problems, it is advisable to undergo a general examination before conception. If necessary, treatment of existing diseases.

    What are practice bouts?

    If during the 38th week pregnancy is accompanied by pulling pains, not of a strong nature, this means that contractions are approaching. Doctors often call such sensations the harbingers of the imminent birth of a baby. They are accompanied by:

    • The abdomen drops a little;
    • the fetus may be slightly slowed down;
    • breaks the lower back;
    • weight gain stops;
    • discharge may be streaked with blood;
    • the mucous plug is separated;
    • increased state of fatigue;
    • emotions can be unstable.

    These sensations are like training for childbirth, and they can be a little painful. You should not worry about them, as this is a moral and physical preparation for the birth of a child. At 38 and 39 weeks, childbirth may begin, after such training, but if this does not happen, you should not panic, the child may be born at 40 weeks or later.

    Checklist for abdominal pain during pregnancy

    In the event that the pain continues to accompany you, this checklist will help. What you need to do to ease the discomfort:

    1. Choose a comfortable position.
    2. Try to relax and get some rest. Set aside 30 minutes to find the most comfortable position.
    3. Could something be causing the pain? Whenever you go to the toilet, do you tense up? What did they eat? Were you not overworked?
    4. Look carefully: do you have any unnatural discharge (yellow, brown, gray or other shades, what is their consistency?)

    Time to see a doctor

    If abdominal pain is accompanied by one of these factors, you should go to the doctor for an appointment:

    1. The discharge changed color and began to smell unpleasant.
    2. If there is pain when going to the toilet.
    3. The pain in the lower back is too severe and does not go away after rest.

    We call an ambulance

    1. If bleeding occurs or discharge is accompanied by a considerable amount of blood.
    2. With regular contractions and severe pain.
    3. The pain in the abdomen becomes stronger and does not go away within half an hour after rest.

    Sometimes abdominal pain during pregnancy can take you by surprise. Don't worry, it will only hurt more. Feel free to follow the checklist. If there are deviations from the norm, dial a doctor or call an ambulance. Modern medicine can eliminate problems and help you give birth to a healthy baby.

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