3809
3.5 Minute

20-08-2024 Team Medicover gynecology

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by

Stomach Pain During Pregnancy

Stomach pain or cramps are common during pregnancy. They're usually not severe, but sometimes, there can be a sign of something more serious that needs immediate action.

It's nothing to worry about if the pain is mild. It reduces when you make the position change, take a rest, pass the wind or do a poo.

Is Stomach Pain During Pregnancy Normal?

Mild Stomach aches during pregnancy are quite common and a normal part of the body's changes. As your uterus grows, ligaments stretch, muscles shift and organs get compressed, which can cause occasional pain or cramping, especially in the first and second trimesters.

However, not all abdominal pain is harmless. If the pain is severe, persistent or accompanied by symptoms like bleeding, fever, vomiting or dizziness, it could indicate a serious issue like ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, preterm labour or placental problems. In such cases, you should consult a fertility doctor immediately for medical help.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

What to Do If You Have Stomach Pain During Pregnancy?

If you experience stomach pain during pregnancy, the first step is to stay calm and assess the nature of the pain. Most cases are due to normal changes like gas, ligament stretching or indigestion but it's important to handle them properly and know when to seek help.

Rest and Change Positions: Gentle stretching or lying on your side may help relieve pressure or cramping.
Drink Water: Dehydration can cause uterine cramping, so stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
Use a Warm Compress: Applying a warm water bottle to your lower abdomen can help soothe discomfort.
Eat Light and Frequent Meals: This prevents bloating and indigestion, which are common causes of stomach pain.
Avoid Constipation Triggers: Include fibre-rich foods and fluids to keep your digestion smooth.

When to Worry About Stomach Pain During Pregnancy?

While occasional mild cramping or pain is normal during pregnancy, some types of abdominal pain should never be ignored. It's essential to recognise warning signs that may indicate a more serious issue requiring medical attention. Call your doctor immediately if you experience:

Severe or persistent pain
Pain with vaginal bleeding or spotting
Pain with fever, chills or vomiting:
Lower back pain with cramping
Pain with unusual vaginal discharge
Sudden and intense upper abdominal pain

Types of Stomach Pain During Pregnancy

Abdominal pain in pregnant women can vary based on location, intensity and cause. Below are the common types of stomachaches experienced during pregnancy.

1. Upper Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Pain in the upper abdomen can occur from common digestive issues like indigestion, gas or acid reflux, which are especially common in the second and third trimesters.

However, severe or persistent pain in this area could be a sign of preeclampsia, particularly if accompanied by headaches, vision changes or high blood pressure. It is important to consult your doctor if the symptoms increase.

2. Lower Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Lower stomachaches are caused by round ligament stretching, especially during the second trimester, as the uterus grows. This pain is typically sharp or pulling on one or both sides and occurs with sudden movements. It can also be due to constipation, gas or mild cramps, all common during pregnancy.

However, intense or persistent lower pain may signal miscarriage or preterm labor, especially if it appears along with bleeding or contractions.

3. Right Side Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Pain on the right side of the stomach can be due to ligament stretching or gas buildup, but in some cases, it may indicate appendicitis or gallbladder issues. If the pain is sharp, persistent and accompanied by nausea or fever, consult your doctor for medical help.

4. Left Side Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Left-sided abdominal pain is often harmless and related to gas, bloating or ligament stretching. However, persistent pain on the left may also be due to kidney stones, constipation or urinary infections. If the pain is sudden or severe, consult your doctor for medical help.

5. Sharp Pain During Pregnancy

Sudden and sharp pains, especially when coughing, sneezing, or changing positions, are usually due to round ligament pain, a normal side effect of uterine growth. These pains are temporary and not harmful. However, if the sharp pain is severe, continuous or accompanied by other symptoms like bleeding, fever or dizziness, consult your doctor for treatment.

6. Stomach Cramps in Early Pregnancy

Mild stomach aches in early pregnancy can be a normal part of implantation or uterine expansion. It feels similar to menstrual cramps and subsides on its own. However, intense or persistent cramps, especially with spotting or back pain, could indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate care.

Causes of Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy

Round ligament pain: As the uterus grows, ligaments stretch, causing sharp, brief pains on one or both sides of the lower belly. It is common in the second trimester.
Gas and bloating: Hormonal changes and slower digestion can cause trapped gas in the abdomen, leading to discomfort or cramping.
Constipation: Common due to hormonal changes and iron supplements, it can cause pressure and pain in the lower abdomen.
Braxton Hicks contractions: These practice contractions can feel like tightening or cramping, usually in the third trimester.
Growth of the uterus: As your uterus expands, surrounding organs get compressed, leading to general abdominal discomfort.

Symptoms of Stomach Pain in Pregnancy

Severe or continuous stomach pain
Bleeding with pain
Pain with fever or chills
Trouble urinating or blood in urine
More than four contractions in two hours
Severe headache or blurry vision
The pain in the lower back
Pain in the ligaments
Vaginal discharge
Bleeding
Cramping
Trapped wind
Cramps of the vagina
Bleeding etc.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Treatment of Stomach Pain During Pregnancy

Treating stomach pain in pregnant women depends on its cause. While many cases are mild and can be managed at home, some may require medical help. Here's how to address it safely and effectively:

What are the Home Remedies for Stomach Pain during Pregnancy?

The abdominal pain in pregnant women can be relieved at home with the following:

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid constipation.
Take a warm bath to help relax muscles and ease pain.
Use a warm water bottle on your belly to reduce cramps (don't apply directly to the skin).
Eat small, frequent meals to avoid stomach pressure.
Try prenatal massage after consulting your doctor for muscle relaxation.
Use pain relief only with a doctor's advice.
To prevent constipation, include fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Empty your bladder often to reduce pressure and discomfort.

Stomach Ache Medicine For Pregnant Women

Antacids or anti-gas medications: Your doctor may prescribe pregnancy-safe medications for indigestion or gas pain.
Antibiotics: Required for infections like UTIs or some gastrointestinal infections, but only when prescribed.
Pain relievers: Paracetamol is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen unless directed by your doctor.
Hospital care: Severe conditions like ectopic pregnancy, preeclampsia or placental abruption need urgent medical care.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Stomach Pain During Pregnancy

To reduce discomfort, avoid foods that cause gas or bloating, such as beans, cabbage, and carbonated drinks.
Sleep on your left side to help blood flow better and ease pressure on your body.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to prevent unnecessary pressure on your belly.
Engage in light activities like walking or gentle stretching to help your digestion and ease stomach pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some tips to relieve mild abdominal pain: rest, warm baths, hydration, dietary changes, prenatal exercises and medications. Always consult your gynaecologist before taking any medication.

While many causes of abdominal pain are benign, some can indicate a problem with the baby or the pregnancy. If you have concerns or experience severe pain, seek medical attention promptly.

Mild lower abdominal pain early in pregnancy is usually due to implantation, hormonal changes or your uterus beginning to stretch. It's often normal unless it's severe or comes with bleeding.

Conception itself doesn't cause pain, but some women feel mild cramping or twinges a few days later during implantation (usually 6–12 days after ovulation).

It can be. Some women experience mild cramping or discomfort low in the abdomen as an early sign, but it's not definitive on its own.

Yes, it can be. Light cramping or a dull ache in the lower abdomen is common in early pregnancy due to hormonal and uterine changes.

By the third month, your uterus is growing rapidly. Ligament stretching and shifts in pelvic organs can cause mild, pulling pains. It's normal unless sharp, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms.