The development of pregnancy produces different changes both physically and emotionally, in pregnant women. There are as many pregnancies as there are pregnant women in the world, that is, there are no two identical cases and therefore should not be compared. But in general, the physical discomforts are usually very similar in most cases and this is because they are produced by the same changes internally.
The causes of discomfort in the abdominal area during pregnancy, they can be very varied. For this reason, it is important for the pregnant woman to know how to differentiate the symptoms. Since in most cases they are usually harmless annoyances, but this does not mean that they can be signs of something more serious. Let's see what are the most common abdominal discomforts in pregnancy.
Common causes of abdominal pain in pregnancy
In most cases, the annoyances that we are going to mention are usually harmless and very common in most pregnancies. However, if the pain you feel is more intense or you have any fear, do not hesitate to go to the doctor. It may not be serious at all, but if it helps you stay calmer, it will significantly help improve your condition and the health of your baby.
Round ligament pain
The round ligaments of the uterus are those that support all the weight and the changes produced in the uterus itself and the ligaments themselves, which become hypertrophied as a cause of pregnancy. As a consequence of the growth of the uterus, ligaments stretch and often cause discomfort and abdominal pain. This usually happens around the second trimester of pregnancy and is generally not considered a serious problem.
Beyond the discomfort that it produces for the pregnant woman, this discomfort differs because it appears suddenly and feels like a sharp jab when changing position.
Digestion problems: constipation and gas
the rise of the hormone progesterone is to blame for the annoying gas During pregnancy. On the other hand, the displacement of the internal organs makes digestion difficult and this leads to constipation and stomach discomfort. It is important to avoid constipation to reduce the chances of hemorrhoids. A diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated and physical exercise will help you keep constipation at bay.
Prepartum Contractions: Braxton Hicks
By the third trimester, the body naturally prepares for labor and so-called Braxton Hicks contractions occur. You will notice how your belly becomes noticeably hard and tight, it will cause you discomfort but without causing intense pain. You can differentiate them from labor contractions, because the latter will paralyze you on the spot.
Dehydration can cause contractions of Braxton Hicks increase, so you should drink plenty of water to reduce these discomforts.
Serious causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy
Also exist negative circumstances that may cause discomfort abdominals in pregnancy, which can be a symptom of something more serious and need to be checked in the emergency department.
- Placental abruption. Placenta it separates from the uterus prematurely before the baby is born, a very dangerous situation for the little one. The symptoms are, tightening of the tummy for many minutes followed by expulsion of bloody amniotic fluid, pain in the lower back and abdomen.
- Spontaneous abortion. Sadly, many women suffer loss of baby in the first weeks of pregnancy. The symptoms are, back pain that can be mild or very severe, pain from contractions, bleeding and the expulsion of other tissues.
- Ectopic pregnancy. This happens when the egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Symptoms are severe pain in the abdomen, as well as bleeding. It usually occurs in the first weeks of gestation.
- Urinary tract infection. This type of condition is very common, although in pregnancy it can cause serious complications if it is not treated in time. The symptoms are, Pain in the back side of the back, in the pelvis or on the side. It can also cause fever, chills or nausea, a sign that the infection has passed to the kidneys and needs to be treated as soon as possible.
- Preeclampsia. A pregnancy complication with significant risk to the baby's health and from the mother. It can cause pain in the abdomen and under the ribs on the right side, in addition to nausea or increased blood pressure among others.