When To Get Medical Help In Your First Trimester
You should contact your GP, maternity unit or hospital if:
- you have pain passing urine this could be a sign of a urine infection
- you have blood in your urine or smelly or cloudy urine these could be signs of a urine infection
- you have any this could be a sign of a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy
- the pain is severe, located mainly on one side, or if you feel dizzy or weak these can be signs of an ectopic pregnancy or appendicitis
Urgent Advice: Contact Your Midwife Or Gp Urgently If:
- the tummy pain is severe
- the tummy pain feels like tightening. Tightening of your tummy could be a sign that you are having a contraction and may be going into labour. During a contraction your womb often goes hard to touch, and your abdomen can feel very tight
- the pain is in your upper tummy area, especially if it is on the right hand side, as this could be a sign of pre-eclampsia
- you have symptoms like pain on passing urine , high temperature, needing to pee more than normal and cloudy or smelly wee. These are all signs of a urinary tract infection.
Tummy Twinges Pinching And Pulling
Some women experience feelings inside their stomachs in the early stages of pregnancy that replicate the sensation of their muscles being pulled and stretched. Sometimes referred to as abdominal twinges, these tingles are nothing to worry about.
Layla Rumble, midwife at The Portland Hospital, which is part of HCA Healthcare UK, said, Abdominal twinges and mild pains are very common during pregnancy and usually nothing to worry about. Twinges and abdominal pain is usually caused by constipation, ligament pain, or trapped wind all of which are a normal part of pregnancy.
Twinges, and pains can be alleviated by regular light exercise, eating smaller, frequent meals, having plenty of fibre-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water to help empty your bladder regularly.
If you find that you experience intense and ongoing pains, or pain accompanied by bleeding, it is important to seek medical advice from your midwife or GP to rule out anything serious.
What else could it be?If youve been heavily exercising or straining your muscles, you could be experiencing some tension from that, especially if youve focused on ab workouts. A tight stomach can also be due to other factors such as digestive issues, stress or hormonal changes, and doesnt necessarily mean youre pregnant.
You May Like: How To Get Pregnant After 35
When To See Your Doctor
Continue to visit your doctor for ongoing prenatal appointments. Usually, these occur about once a month. Ask your doctor questions about the process and tell them about any concerns you have. Contact them if you have unusual changes or symptoms, especially if you have vaginal bleeding, leakage of clear fluid, burning with urination, leg swelling, or abdominal pains.
What Are Five Common Signs Of Pregnancy
There are several signs of early pregnancy that you could experience. Not everyone will have all of these symptoms, and some women may not feel any of these things. Pregnancy symptoms throughout the entire pregnancy can vary dramatically between women. Its important not to compare your pregnancy to someone elses.
Common early pregnancy symptoms can include:
Don’t Miss: How Does Birth Control Prevent Pregnancy
What Causes Abdominal Pain In The Second Trimester Of Pregnancy
In the second trimester of pregnancy, the round ligament is often the source of the majority of cases of stomach discomfort. However, the discomfort may begin early for some women, namely when the pregnant belly first makes an appearance. The pain starts in the lower abdomen and may go all the way up to the hip region.
Signs Of Early Miscarriage
More than 80 percent of miscarriages occur in the first trimesterwhich is why many couples dont share their pregnancy news until they pass the 13th week. So what are the first signs of a miscarriage? Depending on the medical situation, the physical process of losing a pregnancy can vary from person to person, says Jennifer Jolley, M.D., Assistant Professor of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at the University of Washington in Seattle. Here, we break down some signs of miscarriage in early pregnancy.
Read Also: How To Fake A Broken Arm
Recommended Reading: How Much Weight Can You Carry When Pregnant
/ Is It Normal To Get Cramps Later On In The First Trimester
Mild cramping at any point during the first three months of pregnancy is usually nothing to worry about, as it can be caused by the significant hormone changes youre experiencing. The body produces higher rates of progesterone during pregnancy, which can have an effect on muscles, ligaments and joints, making them more flexible, explains Dr Beckett. This may be felt as the womb expands to accommodate the growing foetus.
Other causes of cramps include trapped wind and constipation, both of which are common in pregnancy its such a glamorous time.
If the pain is only mild and goes away after you rest, poo or pass wind, then its probably nothing to fret about, according to the NHS. But if you are worried, you should call your midwife or your GP. Feeling anxious is perfectly understandable and theyll be able address any concerns you have.
Read Also: Vagisil Pregnant
Which Side Is The Baby On During Pregnancy
Experts recommend lying on your left side. It improves circulation, giving nutrient-packed blood an easier route from your heart to the placenta to nourish your baby. Lying on the left side also keeps your expanding body weight from pushing down too hard on your liver. While either side is okay, left is best.
Recommended Reading: What Things To Do While Pregnant
Where Is The Placenta
In most pregnancies, the placenta is located in the upper part of the uterus. Sometimes, however, the placenta attaches lower in the uterus or on the front uterine wall .
Keep in mind, the placenta is a completely separate organ from your baby formed with the sole purpose of supporting your pregnancy. It is attached to the uterine wall and connects to your baby via the umbilical cord your baby isnt inside the placenta.
Confused? You might be mistaking the placenta with the amniotic sac a membrane that surrounds your baby, contains amniotic fluid and ruptures when its time to deliver your baby .
How To Relieve Pregnancy Cramps
Pregnancy cramp relief depends on the cause behind the pain youre experiencing. These tips can relieve the most common causes of abdominal cramps during pregnancy:
- Drink plenty of water, which may ease any cramping related to dehydration, bloating or constipation
- Soak in a warm bath, which can help ease pregnancy cramps related to increased uterine blood flow
- Wear a belly band, which can help relieve abdominal cramps linked to round ligament pain in the second half of pregnancy
- Change positions if you think youre having Braxton Hicks contractions
Read Also: Does Donating Plasma Affect Fertility
Recommended Reading: How Early Can You Show Pregnancy Symptoms
Can Peeing Prevent Pregnancy
There is a long-standing rumor that peeing after sex can help prevent pregnancy. But does this folk remedy actually work The answer is, unfortunately, no.
So if youre trying to avoid getting pregnant, its important to use contraception every time you have sex. There are a variety of contraception options available, so talk to your doctor to find the best method for you.
Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy
Shortness of breath can happen due to increased upward pressure from the uterus and changes in physiologic lung function.
Recommendations:
- When walking, slow down and rest a few moments.
- Raise your arms over your head .
- Avoid lying flat on your back, and try sleeping with your head elevated.
- If prolonged shortness of breathing continues or you experience sharp pain when inhaling, contact your health care provider. You could have a pulmonary embolism .
Don’t Miss: What Medicine Is Safe To Take While Pregnant
Severe Stomach Pain During Pregnancy
If you are having severe pain anywhere in your abdominal region during early pregnancy, go to the emergency room. You need to make sure that ectopic pregnancy is ruled out, as this can be life-threatening if not treated.
In some cases, abdominal pain during pregnancy can indicate placental abruption and other life-threatening complications for both mother and baby, requiring immediate medical attention. In placental abruption, the placenta separates from the uterus after the 20th week of pregnancy and you may need close monitoring or early delivery of the baby.
Abdominal cramps can also be a sign of preterm labor. In any case, don’t delay in seeking treatment. Early treatment of complications can make a big difference. Preeclampsia, which is a condition that includes high blood pressure and protein in the urine, can also generate upper abdominal pain.
If this condition is not treated it can lead to multiple organ problems, eclampsia , and poor fetal growth.
In addition to these pregnancy-related causes of severe abdominal pain, you could also be experiencing pains related to non-pregnancy conditions that need immediate treatment. Some of these happen more frequently during pregnancy, while others are coincidental.
These include:
Serious Causes Of Abdominal Pain In Pregnancy
Most causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy are nothing to worry about, but some causes of abdominal pain need medical care right away. If you suspect you may be facing one of the following problems, get medical assistance immediately.
Appendicitis. Appendicitis is an infection of your appendix, which can happen even during pregnancy and needs immediate treatment. Appendicitis causes:
- Pain on your right side
- Stomach pain near your belly button
Gallstones. Your gallbladder helps you digest fatty foods. When youâre pregnant, hormones and your digestive system can affect your gallbladder, causing you to develop gallstones. These stones will cause:
- Sharp, stabbing pain in your upper right side
- Loss of appetite
Gallstones may go away on their own, or they may require medical treatment. Talk to your doctor if you get any of these symptoms.
Preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a dangerous condition thatâs only found in pregnant people. Your body reacts to being pregnant by developing high blood pressure. Your blood pressure can get so high that it may damage your liver and kidneys. The best treatment for preeclampsia is delivering your baby.
Signs of preeclampsia include:
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor right away.
If youâre spotting, having red bleeding, or passing clots, then a miscarriage is possible. Talk to your doctor immediately.
Also Check: How Can I Know If I Am Pregnant
Are Cramps During Pregnancy Normal
Some abdominal cramping and stomach pain in pregnancy is common. Early pregnancy cramps can be linked to many run-of-the-mill pregnancy symptoms, including constipation or increased blood flow to the uterus.
Later on in pregnancy, pregnancy pains could be linked to normal symptoms like Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain.
Sometimes, however, abdominal pain during pregnancy can be a sign of a condition that requires medical attention, like a urinary tract infection, miscarriage, preterm labor or preeclampsia. Its always safest to about any symptom that concerns you.
The following are common causes of abdominal pain and cramps during pregnancy that can occur during any trimester:
What Causes Upper Stomach Pain During Pregnancy
Nausea, cramping, and muscle pain. Aches and pains are a part of the pregnancy journey. When its your body, though, you may be wondering whether these discomforts are normal or concerning.
How can you tell if that pain youre feeling in your upper stomach is a sign that your baby is growing or that your body needs help?
While we cant promise to know exactly what is going on with your body, the following information explains some of the common causes of upper stomach pain during pregnancy and some general guidelines for when its a good idea to reach out to your doctor. Interested? Here we go
Wondering why youre experiencing that upper stomach pain? Some possible causes, from the more common issues to the rare, include:
Don’t Miss: Can You Get Pregnant Through Ivf After Tubal Ligation
When To Call A Doctor
Abdominal pain during pregnancy warrants a call to the doctor if the following signs appear.
- Any pain or bleeding during the first and third trimester
- Accumulation of water or swelling of hands, face, or feet
- Severe pain with or without vaginal bleeding
- Vision problems sensitivity to light, blurred vision
- Fever, chills, headache, nausea, or vomiting
- Pain while urinating or foul-smelling urine
- Recurring and equally timed contractions that seem progressive.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does my pregnant belly hurt at night?
Lying on the bed can cause the uterus to exert more pressure on the stomach. It results in the stomach acids moving up the gastrointestinal tract, leading to heartburn and pain .
2. Where are pregnancy cramps usually located?
Cramps during pregnancy are usually felt either on one or both sides of the abdomen . Soaking in warm water and practicing relaxation techniques may help relieve cramps during pregnancy.
All pains during pregnancy may not be a cause for concern. However, it is better to know the multiple factors that may affect the safety of you and your baby. If you are concerned about the pain, it does not harm giving a doctor a call. The chances are that these pregnancy cramps are normal, and you will feel better quickly.
Managing Pcos And Pregnancy Symptoms
PCOS and pregnancy symptoms are related, hence it is very important for women with PCOS to monitor and manage the PCOS symptoms, and take extra care during pregnancy, because this disorder affects the entire reproductive system right from conception until delivery of the baby. It can increase the risks of pregnancy complications such as premature birth, gestational diabetes, miscarriage, and high blood pressure. In addition to these, women with PCOS are at a higher risk of needing a cesarean delivery because they give birth to their children larger than expected for their gestational age. Also, the maternal mortality rate is high for PCOS patients, hence, their newborn babies are also at higher risk of dying at the time of delivery or of being admitted to neonatal ICU.
You May Like: When Is It The Best Time To Get Pregnant
How To Ease Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
You may try the following tips for relief from abdominal pain caused by common causes.
- Consume small and frequent meals.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid taking alcohol, caffeinated drinks, carbonated, and high-sugar beverages .
- Consume a diet rich in fiber.
- Rest well and avoid doing tedious tasks
- Exercise regularly as it may help release gas. Perform only pregnancy-safe exercises.
When To Seek Medical Care
You may still be wondering whether should you be concerned and seeking immediate attention for your specific pain. While its not always cut and dry, there are some general guidelines that can assist you in deciding whether or not to call your doctor.
You should reach out to your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:
You May Like: Can Birth Control Pills Help You Get Pregnant
Other Early Signs And When They Happen
According to the National Institutes of Health , other early signs and symptoms of pregnancy may include:
Some women also report feeling dizzy or wobbly early on in pregnancy, often when they get up after lying down. This symptom may be due to changes in the blood vessels carrying oxygen to the brain.
Some women cannot explain any specific symptoms or changes in their body, but they intuitively feel that something is different.
They might describe it as not feeling like themselves or feeling as though they are suddenly always a step behind. This may be a sign of fatigue and an indication of hormonal changes.
Recommended Reading: Is Metamucil Safe During Pregnancy
Pregnancy Bleeding And Swollen Gums
You may not have expected pregnancy to affect your mouth. But your blood circulation and hormone levels can make your gums tender and swollen, and you may notice they bleed more easily. You may also develop nose bleeds.
Recommendations:
- Get a dental checkup early in your pregnancy to make sure your teeth and mouth are healthy. See your dentist if you notice a particular problem.
- Brush your teeth, floss regularly and rinse daily with an antiseptic mouthwash.
Read Also: How To Relieve Anxiety While Pregnant
When To See A Doctor
Although most stomach pains during pregnancy shouldnt be concerning, others may have serious or even fatal consequences. If you experience unusual pain or bleeding, dont hesitate to get help. Obstetricians often have after-hours nursing hotlines, staffed with trained professionals to assess your needs. Remember, its always better to be safe than sorry.
Left Lower Quadrant Pain In Pregnancy
In this series
Many conditions can cause pain in the left lower quadrant whether you are pregnant or not, so you should always get checked out.
Even if you are pregnant, you can still have tummy pain caused by all the same conditions seen in non-pregnant women. You can find out more about these in our leaflet called Left Lower Quadrant Pain. The rest of this leaflet looks only at causes specific to pregnancy.
Recommended Reading: Can Stomach Vacuum Lose Belly Fat
Recommended Reading: What To Take To End Pregnancy
V Heartburn And Indigestion
Heartburn, a sense of burning within the throat and chest, and stomach, a turgid and gassy feeling that happens once an abdomen is slow to digest, might happen throughout pregnancy.
There are several sober ways to relieve symptoms and to prevent stomach upset. Before taking antacids you must speak along with your doctor.
Dont Miss: Can I Get Lasik While Pregnant
