Pregnancy is a beautiful and exciting time in life. However, it's also normal to feel a little scared at times with the new changes you're feeling in your body and the little discomforts. Especially when something like a stomach ache comes along, you wonder, 'Is this normal or something to be worried about?' So today, let's talk about stomach aches during pregnancy, their common causes, and the serious cases we should definitely be concerned about.
Normal stomach aches are nothing to worry about.
Your body is going through a lot of changes during this time. As your baby grows, your stomach will start to feel heavier and your other organs will start to feel tighter. Some stomach aches are normal. They are easily manageable and often go away on their own.
Digestive system problems
Especially in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, the weight of the baby puts a lot of pressure on your stomach and intestines. This can lead to stomach pain due to digestive problems like gas, bloating, and constipation . If you feel like this pain comes after eating, drink plenty of water and add more fiber-rich foods (legumes, vegetables, fruits) to your diet.
Muscle twitching
During pregnancy, a woman typically gains between 25 and 35 pounds. This extra weight, along with the loosening of muscles and ligaments due to hormones, can make it easier for your back, hips, and abdominal muscles to become strained. This type of pain usually feels like a cramping, pulling pain . The pain is limited to the area of the muscle in question.
Uterine cramps
Even if you don't have your period during this time, you may still experience cramps. This is because your uterus is growing incredibly large. Especially in the first and second trimesters, when your uterus contracts, you may experience a stabbing or pulling pain similar to menstrual cramps. This pain will subside after a while or after applying a hot water bottle.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Sometimes, your body will have contractions as a rehearsal for real labor. We call these "Braxton Hicks contractions." These are also called "false labor." They are often less intense than real labor, are irregular, and feel stronger at first, but then gradually weaken. They can be uncomfortable or painful, but they usually stop if you change positions or walk around a bit.
Stomach aches caused by serious causes that should be taken into consideration
While most stomach aches during pregnancy are normal, some pains may be due to serious causes that require immediate medical attention . If you suspect you have any of the following conditions, it is important to seek medical advice immediately .
| Medical condition | Main symptoms |
|---|---|
| Appendicitis An infection of the appendix. It can occur even during pregnancy and requires immediate treatment. |
|
| Gallstones Gallstones are formed due to hormonal influences in the gallbladder, which helps digest fatty foods. | |
| Preeclampsia A very dangerous condition related to high blood pressure that only occurs in pregnant mothers. | |
| Miscarriage If you experience severe pain in the lower right side of your abdomen along with spotting, it could be a sign of miscarriage. |
Remember, if you have any doubts or fears, don't just assume, 'This might just be something.' The wisest thing to do is to talk to your doctor.
When should you seek immediate medical advice?
Most common pains will subside after a while, especially after being scalded with hot water. But some pains can be a sign of an emergency. If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately. If necessary, go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ETU).
| Symptoms to watch out for |
|---|
| - Persistent or severe pain in your stomach or back |
| - Pain accompanied by redness or swelling at the site |
| - Pain during urination |
| - Repeated contractions within 10 minutes before 37 weeks of gestation |
| - Significant decrease in baby's movements after 28 weeks |
| - Vaginal discharge of blood or other fluid |
| - Vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea |
| - Severe or persistent headache |
| - Fever |
| - Blurred vision or blue eyes |
If you're feeling a little overwhelmed by any of the symptoms you're experiencing, don't hesitate to ask for help. Your doctor is there to help you.
Take-Home Message
- Stomach aches are common during pregnancy. Most pains are caused by normal changes in the body as the baby grows.
- Common, non-threatening causes include gas, constipation, muscle cramps, and Braxton Hicks contractions.
- However, if severe pain, especially on the right side, is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and blurred vision, it may be a sign of a serious condition.
- If you experience any vaginal bleeding or other fluid, or if your baby's movements decrease after 28 weeks, call your doctor immediately.
- If you have any doubts or fears, never ignore them. It is always safer to consult your doctor rather than self-diagnose.
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