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Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & When to Worry

Dr. Pujil Gulati, IVF Specialist with over 13 years of experience in Assisted Reproductive Techniques BabyBloom IVF Gurgaon

April 7, 2025

Introduction

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it comes with many changes in the body. One common change is abdominal pain. Some tummy pain is normal, but sometimes it may be a sign of something serious.

Let’s understand the common causes, signs, and when to worry about abdominal pain during pregnancy.

🔍 What is Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy?

Abdominal pain means pain or discomfort in the belly area. During pregnancy, it can happen due to body changes, baby’s growth, or other health reasons.

It may feel like:

Pulling or stretching
Cramps (like periods)
Sharp or dull pain
Tight belly

🌸 Common Causes of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Here are the harmless and common reasons for stomach pain in pregnancy:

1. Stretching Uterus

As your baby grows, your uterus gets bigger. This stretches muscles and causes mild cramps or pressure in the lower belly.

2. Gas and Bloating

Pregnancy slows down digestion, which leads to gas and bloating. This may cause sharp, temporary pain.

3. Constipation

Not going to the toilet regularly can cause pain in the lower belly.

4. Round Ligament Pain

This is sharp pain on one or both sides of the lower belly. It happens due to stretching of the ligament that supports the uterus.

5. Braxton Hicks Contractions

These are “practice” contractions and are not real labor. They feel like tightness in the belly and come and go.

🚨 Serious Causes of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy (When to Worry)

Some belly pains are not normal and need medical attention. Look out for these issues:

1. Ectopic Pregnancy (Early Pregnancy)

Baby grows outside the womb (usually in fallopian tube)
Pain on one side, bleeding, dizziness
Needs urgent care Read More: (Ectopic Pregnancy in Hindi: लक्षण, कारण और बचाव के उपाय)

2. Miscarriage

Strong cramps with bleeding
Back pain
Tissue coming out of vagina

3. Placental Abruption (Later Pregnancy)

Placenta detaches from uterus early
Constant strong pain, bleeding, baby not moving much
A medical emergency

4. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Pain or burning while peeing
Lower belly pain
Fever, foul-smelling urine

5. Preterm Labor

Regular contractions before 37 weeks
Back pain, cramps, watery discharge
Go to hospital quickly

🧠 Symptoms That Need a Doctor’s Help

When to Call Your Doctor | Pregnancy Stomach Pain Warning Signs

Call your doctor fast if you see these “urgent pregnancy symptoms”:

❗ Strong or sharp belly pain that won’t stop.
❗ Bleeding or spotting.
❗ Fever and chills.
❗ Pain when peeing.
❗ Dizziness or fainting.
❗ Baby not moving (after 5 months).
❗ Heavy pressure in pelvis.

Tip:

Don’t wait with “pregnancy stomach pain warning signs.” Quick help keeps you and baby safe!

👩‍⚕️ How to Relieve Mild Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy

If the pain is light and not serious, try these home tips:

✅ Rest on your left side
✅ Use a hot water bottle (warm, not hot)
✅ Drink lots of water
✅ Do gentle stretching
✅ Take short walks after meals to help gas

💡 Prevent Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy

👉 Eat healthy food with fiber
👉 Avoid junk and spicy food
👉 Don’t hold pee too long
👉 Sleep on your side
👉 Do pregnancy-safe exercises

🤰 When Does Abdominal Pain Happen Most?

Abdominal pain may happen during all three trimesters:

First Trimester: Uterus is growing
Second Trimester: Round ligament pain
Third Trimester: Braxton Hicks or baby’s position

But if the pain is sudden or severe, always check with your doctor. Read More:- (Well Health Tips in Hindi wellhealthorganic)

🙋‍♀️ FAQs – Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy

Q1. Is mild belly pain normal during pregnancy?
👉 Yes, light cramps or pain due to stretching is normal.

Q2. Can gas cause stomach pain in pregnancy?
👉 Yes! Gas and bloating are common causes of belly pain.

Q3. How do I know if it’s serious pain?
👉 If you have bleeding, sharp pain, or fever — call your doctor.

Q4. Can I take medicine for the pain?
👉 Always ask your doctor before taking any medicine.

Q5. When should I go to the hospital?
👉 Go right away if the pain is strong, constant, or comes with bleeding or contractions.

📝 Conclusion

Some belly pain is a normal part of pregnancy, but you should always listen to your body. If the pain feels wrong, don’t wait — talk to your doctor.

Stay relaxed, eat healthy, and take care of your baby bump! ❤️ OR If you need any information related to IVF, contact our Babybloom IVF Centre or call us at 9266046700 to clear your doubt🌸