Pregnancy is an exciting yet sometimes nerve-racking experience. Your body is changing in extraordinary ways, and with those changes comes discomfort and, occasionally, abdominal pain.

If you’re pregnant and wondering whether that sharp twinge or dull ache in your belly is normal, you’re not alone.

Many women experience abdominal pain during pregnancy, but understanding what’s normal and what’s not can provide reassurance.

This blog will guide you through the potential causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy, what you can do to ease it, and importantly, when to call your doctor. Let’s dig in, one reassuring step at a time.

Abdominal pain during pregnancy happens for a variety of reasons, ranging from minor issues like gas to more serious complications. Your body is, quite literally, making room for a baby, so occasional discomfort is expected.

However, understanding the nature of your pain — whether it’s mild or severe, sudden or gradual — is key to determining how to handle it.

The Most Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

Here are some of the more typical causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy:

1. Round Ligament Pain 

This is one of the most common culprits, especially in your second trimester. The round ligaments are two bands of tissue that support your uterus, and as it grows, these ligaments stretch. This can cause sudden, sharp pain or a dull ache, often felt on one or both sides of your lower abdomen.

What it feels like: 

A quick, sharp stabbing pain when you sneeze, laugh, or stand up too quickly. It may also feel like a persistent, mild ache.

Actionable Tip: 

Avoid abrupt movements. If you feel the stretching pain coming on, try doing gentle stretches or prenatal yoga to ease tension.

2. Gas and Bloating 

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can slow down digestion, leading to gas and bloating — and boy, can it feel uncomfortable!

What it feels like: 

A crampy, unsettling fullness in your belly, combined with burping or passing wind.

Actionable Tip: 

Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Drinking plenty of water and walking after meals can also work wonders.

3. Braxton Hicks Contractions 

Braxton Hicks are often called “practice contractions” because they help your body prepare for labour. These contractions are typically irregular and don’t increase in intensity.

What it feels like: 

A tightening or hardening of your belly that comes and goes, usually painless but occasionally uncomfortable.

Actionable Tip: 

Stay hydrated, as dehydration is a common trigger of Braxton Hicks. If you’re not sure whether it’s Braxton Hicks or true labour contractions, rest for a while and see if the discomfort eases up.

4. Constipation 

Constipation plagues many mums-to-be, thanks to those same hormones that slow digestion to help your baby absorb nutrients better.

What it feels like: 

A dull ache or cramping in the lower abdomen, paired with fewer bowel movements or difficulty passing stools.

Actionable Tip: 

Increase your fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drinking warm liquids in the morning can jump-start your digestive system.

5. Growing Pains 

Your growing uterus can lead to muscle strain, particularly in the lower abdomen or pelvis. This is especially noticeable in the later stages of pregnancy.

What it feels like: 

A heavy or strained sensation, similar to muscle soreness after a workout.

Actionable Tip: 

Invest in a supportive maternity belt to take some of the pressure off your abdomen and back.

Although most abdominal pain during pregnancy is harmless, some symptoms could indicate complications that require immediate medical attention.

Trust your instincts — if something doesn’t feel right, reach out to your healthcare provider. Here are some red flags to watch for:

Symptoms That Could Be Serious:

• Severe or persistent abdominal pain 

Especially if it’s concentrated in one area and doesn’t ease up.

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting 

Paired with pain, this could signal miscarriage or other issues.

• Fever or chills 

These may point to an infection.

• Painful urination 

Could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI).

• Regular, painful contractions 

Before 37 weeks, this might signal preterm labour.

• Shoulder pain 

This can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy or internal bleeding.

• Sudden swelling or headaches 

If coupled with upper abdominal discomfort or blurry vision, this could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition requiring immediate attention.

What Should You Do When in Doubt? 

Call your midwife or doctor. Even if your symptoms turn out to be harmless, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

Now that we’ve covered the causes, here are simple ways to find relief:

1.Rest as Needed 

Listen to your body. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, lie down on your side with a pillow under your belly for support.

2.Try Gentle Exercises 

Prenatal yoga, light stretching, or walking can reduce tension and improve circulation.

3.Apply Heat (Cautiously!) 

A warm compress (not hot!) on your lower belly can ease discomfort, but avoid prolonged use.

4.Stay Hydrated 

Dehydration can exacerbate cramping, so make water your best friend.

5.Wear Comfy Clothing 

Tight clothes can add pressure to your abdomen, so opt for loose, breathable maternity wear.

6.Assess Your Diet 

Track what you eat to see if certain foods trigger bloating or discomfort.

Abdominal pain during pregnancy is often just a sign of your body changing to accommodate your baby, but it’s completely normal to have concerns. Always listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if anything feels off.

CTA: If you’re experiencing abdominal pain during pregnancy and aren’t sure what’s causing it, speak to your doctor. Peace of mind is just a call away, and they can offer personalised guidance tailored to your unique situation.

You deserve to feel confident, informed, and cared for throughout your pregnancy. Keep these tips handy, and remember — you’re not alone on this incredible journey!

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• About Author

  Dr. Supriya Puranik

  Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist
  
  MMC -072514 (1993)

Dr. Supriya Puranik, a renowned gynaecologist and infertility expert, leads the IVF & Gynaecology department at Sahyadri Hospitals Momstory in Shivaji Nagar, Pune. She is committed to helping couples overcome infertility challenges.