Abdominal pain is a common discomfort that can occur at any stage of pregnancy. Abdominal pain, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, is often similar to premenstrual pain. You can find the causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy, which negatively affects the daily life of expectant mothers and reduces the quality of life, in the rest of our article.
Causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy
1 . Uterine Ligaments
One of the most important causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy is the stretching of the ligaments that hold the uterus in place. The uterus, which grows with pregnancy, causes stretching of the surrounding membranes and ligaments over time. These tensions are perceived as pain by the expectant mother. Stabbing pain can occur on one or both sides of the abdomen. These pains have no clinical significance or risk.
2 . Constipation
Constipation is another cause of abdominal pain during pregnancy. The hormone progesterone, which is secreted in the body during pregnancy, causes food in the intestine to stay there longer than usual. This condition, which causes constipation, causes the expectant mother to be unable to go to the toilet and to experience frequent abdominal pain. Abdominal pain due to constipation can be prevented with methods such as fiber nutrition, increasing fluid consumption and exercise.
3 . Braxton Hicks Contractions (Prenatal Contractions)
Uterine contractions, called Braxton hicks contractions, can also cause pain in the expectant mother. These contractions, popularly known as false labor pains, occur later in pregnancy as the uterine muscles work. During these contractions, which indicate that the body is preparing for birth, the abdomen hardens and the expectant mother feels pain and abdominal discomfort. Drinking plenty of water, resting frequently and increasing magnesium supplementation will help reduce pain.
4 . Early separation of the placenta
When the placenta leaves the uterus before the baby does, the mother experiences severe pain, abdominal cramping, bleeding and severe pain in the uterus. Early detachment of the placenta, which is a very serious condition, can be detected early and the health of mother and baby can be secured.
During pregnancy, factors such as heartburn, uterine pressure on the nerves, pressure from the growing baby and uterus, gas pains, miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy can also cause abdominal pain in the expectant mother. Kidney stones, appendicitis and urinary tract infections, which are not related to pregnancy, can also cause abdominal pain. Whatever the problem, the expectant mother should consult her doctor immediately when she complains of abdominal pain during pregnancy and ensure that the source of the pain is identified.