Stomach ache during pregnancy | Symptoms, causes, remedies, tips

Welcome back to Newborn Tips, in today’s article we will explore the possible causes of stomach ache during pregnancy, what are the symptoms that appear, the signs not to underestimate and the useful remedies to deal with this disorder in a calm way.

Table of contents

Does Your Stomach Hurt When You’re Pregnant?

Overall during pregnancy, the body undergoes a series of extraordinary changes that can lead to unexpected symptoms, including stomach ache.

In fact, it is a common sensation that can have different causes, from simple digestive disorders to physiological changes related to the growth of the baby.

So many pregnant women wonder when to worry about stomach ache during pregnancy?

In reality, it is normal to feel pain or discomfort in the belly during pregnancy, especially as the body adapts to the changes necessary to support the growth of the baby.

However, if the stomach ache is accompanied by fever, bleeding, intense pain, or symptoms such as dizziness and fainting, it is essential to contact a doctor immediately.

Symptoms of Stomach Ache Pregnancy

As such, stomach pain during pregnancy can present itself with different intensities and characteristics. Here are the main symptoms that can accompany abdominal pain during pregnancy:

Common and normal symptoms:

Mild and intermittent cramps (similar to menstrual cramps)
Tightness or heaviness in the abdomen due to the expansion of the uterus
Pain that occurs on the sides of the abdomen or in the groin area (i.e. round ligament pain)
Bloating and intestinal gas
Constipation or difficulty in bowel movements
Braxton Hicks contractions, which are mild and irregular contractions in the third trimester

Pregnancy Symptoms Stomach Pain That Require Medical Attention

Sharp or persistent pain
Severe and constant abdominal cramps
Pain that radiates to the back, pelvis or legs
Vaginal bleeding
Leaking fluid from the vagina
Persistent fever, nausea or vomiting
Pain when urinating
Decreased baby movement
Regular contractions before the 37th week

Causes

To be honest, the causes can vary from woman to woman, however it should be noted that stomach ache during pregnancy is common and can be attributed to different factors, depending on the trimester you are in. Here are the main causes:

First trimester (0-12 weeks):

Implantation of the embryo: Pain similar to menstrual cramps may occur as the embryo implants in the uterus
Hormonal changes: Increased progesterone relaxes the muscles of the uterus and digestive tract, causing bloating, constipation, and cramps
Expanding the uterus: As the uterus expands, you may feel mild abdominal tension or pain

Second trimester (13-26 weeks):

Pain in the round ligaments: The growing uterus pulls on the ligaments that support it, causing sharp pain or cramps on the sides of the abdomen.
Digestive problems: Constipation, bloating, and acid reflux are common during this stage

Third trimester (27-40 weeks):

Braxton Hicks contractions: Irregular, painless contractions that prepare the body for childbirth
Uterine pressure: An enlarged uterus can press on the stomach, intestines, and bladder, causing pain and discomfort
Start of labor: If the pain is regular and accompanied by other symptoms such as fluid leakage or blood, it may be a sign of labor

Types of Stomach Pain During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, stomach pain can manifest itself in different ways, depending on the cause and the stage of pregnancy. Here are the main types of stomach pain that pregnant women may experience:

Cramp-like pain

Causes: Often due to the expansion of the uterus and stretching of the ligaments.

Sensation: Similar to menstrual cramps, but milder.

When it occurs: Most common in the first and second trimesters.

Pulling or sharp pain

Causes: As the round ligaments stretch to support the growing uterus, pain occurs in this part of the body.

Sensation: Sudden, stabbing pain on one or both sides of the belly.

When it occurs: Often with sudden movements or in the second trimester.

Stomach ache related to digestion

Causes: Bloating, gas, constipation, or reflux, caused by slowing digestion due to hormones.

Feeling: Bloating, general discomfort, or a feeling of fullness.

When it happens: Can happen in any trimester, but is most common in the second and third.

Braxton Hicks contractions

Causes: Painless preparatory contractions that help the uterus prepare for labor.

Feeling: Tightness or hardening of the belly, not regular or painful.

When it happens: More common in the third trimester.

Severe or abnormal pain (evaluate immediately)

Possible causes: Complications such as ectopic pregnancy, infection, placental abruption, or preterm labor.

Feeling: Pain that is persistent, very severe, or associated with symptoms such as fever, bleeding, or severe nausea.

When it happens: Can happen at any time and requires immediate medical attention.

What to Do to Relax Your Belly During Pregnancy?

When you are pregnant and have belly pain, it is important to understand whether it is mild and related to common causes or whether it requires a medical evaluation. Here are some helpful tips:

Remedies for mild and common pain

Rest: Lying on your side with your legs slightly bent can relieve tension
Apply heat: A warm (not too hot) hot water bottle on your belly can relax the muscles
Pay attention to your diet: Eat light and frequent meals, avoiding heavy foods or foods that promote gas and bloating
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent cramps and digestive problems
Do gentle exercises: Light walks or pregnancy stretching exercises can improve circulation and reduce discomfort

Consult your doctor if necessary

As mentioned, if the pain is severe, persistent, or associated with symptoms such as bleeding, fever, severe nausea, or regular contractions, contact your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room.

Prevention

Avoid sudden movements that could stress the ligaments
Use pillows for support while sleeping and adopt a correct posture
Do regular relaxation exercises to reduce muscle tension

Remember that every pregnancy is unique: if you have any doubts, do not hesitate to ask your gynecologist for advice.

Stomach Ache Pregnancy Remedies

Stomach ache during pregnancy, if related to common and non-worrying causes, can be alleviated with some simple and safe remedies. In the following lines we highlight some strategies to deal with this disorder:

Natural remedies

Rest: Lie on your side (preferably the left) in a comfortable position to relieve pressure on the abdomen
Apply heat: A warm hot water bottle on the belly can relax the muscles and reduce cramps. Avoid high temperatures
Gentle massages: A light massage on the abdomen can relieve discomfort, especially in cases of gas or bloating
Suitable infusions: Chamomile, ginger or fennel (after consulting a doctor) can help calm digestive pain

Diet changes

Light and frequent meals: Avoid binges and prefer easily digestible foods
Avoid foods that cause bloating: Limit fatty foods, fried foods, carbonated drinks and legumes
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation, which can contribute to stomach pain

Light physical activity

Take short walks or gentle exercises to improve digestion and relieve muscle tension
Relaxation exercises
Practice deep breathing techniques or prenatal yoga to reduce stress and tension, which can contribute to pain

When to See a Doctor?

First of all, it is important to know when belly pain during pregnancy requires a medical visit. Here are some signs that you should see a specialist or go to the emergency room:

Severe, persistent pain: If the pain doesn’t go away with rest or gets worse over time
Vaginal bleeding: Even a small amount of blood can be a sign of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or placental abruption
Regular contractions before the 37th week: This could be a sign of premature labor
High fever (over 100.4°F): This could be a sign of an infection
Leaking fluid from the vagina: This could be premature rupture of the waters
Pain when urinating: This could be a sign of a urinary infection
Dizziness, fainting, or difficulty breathing: This could be a sign of preeclampsia or other complications
Sharp, localized pain on one side of the abdomen: This could be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy or a ligament disorder
Decreased fetal movement: If the baby moves less than usual, this is a warning sign
Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea: This can cause dehydration and affect the pregnancy

Urgent cases:

Threatened miscarriage: Intense cramps and bleeding.
Placental abruption: Sudden and intense pain, with or without bleeding
Preeclampsia: Pain in the upper abdomen, high blood pressure, swelling and headache

What to do if the belly pain during pregnancy is mild?

Rest and maintain adequate hydration
Avoid sudden movements
Eat lightly to reduce digestive problems

It should be emphasized that if the pain persists or you are worried, it is always best to contact your trusted gynecologist. Finally, with the right precautions and the support of your doctor, belly pain during pregnancy can be managed safely during pregnancy.

Newborn Tips, The Editorial Team