Pregnancy and abdominal pain: many pregnant women experience this. It can range from mild abdominal cramps and lower abdominal pain during the first weeks to sharp abdominal pain. But what exactly is the cause of abdominal pain? And what can you do about it?
Note: always call your midwife immediately if the abdominal pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as bleeding. Also, if the pain is too severe or if in doubt, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and call.
What causes abdominal pain during pregnancy?
The cause of abdominal pain when you are pregnant can include the growth of the uterus, stretching of the round ligaments - also known as round ligament pain -, a urinary tract infection, false labour, bowel problems, heartburn, an ectopic pregnancy, and more.
Lower abdominal pain during the first weeks of pregnancy
If you are pregnant, you may experience lower abdominal pain during the first weeks. This is often due to the growing uterus. Because the uterus is made of muscle, it may contract slightly as it grows, which can cause abdominal pain. This pain is often described as a dull ache in the lower abdomen, abdominal cramps, or menstrual cramps.
Sharp lower abdominal pain
Sharp lower abdominal pain during pregnancy is usually caused by your round ligaments. These ligaments are attached to the uterus and your pelvis and run left and right through your lower abdomen and lower back. The uterus stays in place in the lower abdomen because it is attached to these ligaments. When a growth spurt occurs, the uterus pulls on these ligaments, which can also cause a dull ache in the lower abdomen. The pain is then often felt in the groin area. Even when the pregnant woman lies on her side, this can cause sharp pain on the side of the abdomen.
Abdominal pain during pregnancy
Women are more likely to develop a urinary tract infection during pregnancy. The symptoms of a urinary tract infection may feel different than they do outside of pregnancy. That is why a urinary tract infection often goes unrecognized, and women may live with it without knowing it. Therefore, if you have cramps or sharp lower abdominal pain, it is always advisable to have your urine checked for a urinary tract infection.
False labour
False labour, also known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are uterine contractions that occur in the later stages of pregnancy. They are generally irregular, mild, and occur as the uterus prepares for childbirth. They are harmless and often subside with relaxation and warmth. Think of a hot water bottle, a warm shower, or a bath.
Severe abdominal cramps
Hormonal changes and the pressure from the growing uterus can lead to slowed digestion and constipation. This can cause severe abdominal cramps and bloating. Women may also experience more flatulence as a result.
Sharp upper abdominal pain
Pregnancy hormones can cause the muscles of the stomach and esophagus to relax more, and combined with the growing uterus, the contents of the stomach may be pushed upward slightly. This often leads to heartburn, especially from the third trimester onward. The growth of the uterus, the delayed emptying of the stomach, and heartburn can also cause pain in the upper abdomen.
Ectopic pregnancy
If abdominal pain occurs at a very early stage of pregnancy, especially before six weeks, it may be caused by an ectopic pregnancy. The pain is then often felt on the left or right side of the lower abdomen. The pain also increases as the pregnancy progresses. Contact your GP or midwife immediately if you suspect an ectopic pregnancy.
When is it false labour and when is it real labour?
The difference between false labour and real labour is the difference in intensity, frequency, and purpose. False labour (also known as Braxton Hicks contractions) and real labour are both forms of uterine contractions, but they differ in the following ways:
- False labour is usually less intense than real labour. It is often described as a feeling of tightness or pressure in the abdomen, similar to contractions, but less painful. Real labour, on the other hand, is usually much stronger and more painful, with a clear pattern of increasing intensity.
- False labour is often irregular and may be short-lived. For example, it may occur occasionally during the day but then disappear. Real labour, on the other hand, has a regular pattern and occurs with increasing frequency and intensity as labour progresses.
- Both serve a different purpose. False labour is more like practice for childbirth. Real labour will cause the cervix to dilate.
- False labour subsides or disappears with relaxation and warmth. Real labour, on the other hand, increases when you seek warmth.
What can I do about abdominal pain during pregnancy?
What helps with abdominal pain is relaxation, rest, and warmth. Also pay attention to your posture while sleeping and sitting. Always make sure your body is in a straight line. You can do this by, for example, placing a pillow between your knees when you lie on your side and by not sitting with your legs crossed. In addition, drink plenty of fluids and ensure a varied diet, full of fiber and with as little sugar and carbonated drinks as possible.
Supplement your diet with good vitamins to support your immune system as best as possible and reduce the risk of a urinary tract infection; think of Vitamin C and D, for example. Click here for the best support.
When should I call my midwife if I have abdominal pain?
Always call your midwife immediately if the abdominal pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as bleeding, if you are in doubt, and when the pain is too severe. Also contact your midwife if the abdominal pain does not subside with the above tips for managing abdominal pain.
