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Stomach Pain During Pregnancy Trimesters

Stomach pain during pregnancy is a very common complaint among many women. At times, the abdominal pain could be mild and tolerable, but in some cases women may find it impossible to bear. While some women experience tummy ache only in the first or last trimester, there are others who have this problem during the entire course of pregnancy. Even though stomach pain during pregnancy is a common occurrence, there is a possibility that it could be a serious problem in some instances. All instances of severe or recurring stomach pain during pregnancy should be investigated by a doctor. Given below are some of the common causes of abdominal pain, experienced during the course of pregnancy:

• Implantation: This occurs when the fertilized egg gets implanted into the wall of the uterus and therefore, it is the most common cause of stomach pain during pregnancy first trimester. Most women compare implantation pain to period-like pain and cramps.
• Stretching of ligaments: As the baby grows in size, the muscles and ligaments that support the uterus begin to stretch. Therefore, women experience a dull ache in the belly, especially when getting up from the bed, coughing or engaging in any other form of physical activity. Stretched uterine ligaments are the most common cause of stomach pain during pregnancy second trimester.
• Braxton Hicks contractions: Pregnant women can experience Braxton Hicks contractions, more commonly referred to as false labor, as the due date approaches. While these contractions may feel like actual labor, they usually improve with a change in position.

Stomach pain during pregnancy third trimester could be an indication of labor even if it is not too severe initially. In fact most women experience cramps (like menstrual cramps) at the beginning of labor. Some of the other causes of a tummy ache in pregnant women could include indigestion, overeating, gas, heartburn and constipation.

However, it is strongly recommended that women waste no time in visiting a doctor in case they experience severe stomach pain during pregnancy, accompanied by symptoms like bleeding, spotting or vaginal discharge. These symptoms could be an indication of major complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, preterm labor, placental abruption, preeclampsia and urinary tract infections, to name a few.

In case a health care provider confirms that the cause of the stomach pain during pregnancy is nothing serious, then the problem can be treated with simple home remedies. Over the counter medication should be strictly avoided, unless prescribed by a doctor who is aware of the pregnant women’s medical history.

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