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Belly Pain During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

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

April 3, 2025

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also come with some discomfort, like belly pain. If you’re feeling pain in your tummy while pregnant, don’t panic! It’s common for many women. Let’s talk about why it happens, when it’s normal, and when you should call a doctor.

Why Does Belly Pain Happen During Pregnancy?

Your body changes a lot when you’re growing a baby. These changes can cause belly pain. Here are some reasons:

Growing Uterus: The uterus is where the baby lives. As the baby gets bigger, the uterus stretches. This can feel like a pulling or aching pain in your belly.
Round Ligament Pain: There are little bands called ligaments that hold the uterus in place. When they stretch, you might feel sharp or quick pains on one or both sides of your lower belly. This happens a lot in the second trimester (months 4 to 6).
Gas or Bloating: Pregnancy slows down your digestion. This can trap gas in your tummy, making it feel full or sore.
Constipation: Hormones can make it harder to poop. When poop builds up, your belly might hurt.
Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are like practice contractions. They feel like your belly gets tight for a few seconds, then relaxes. They’re normal, especially later in pregnancy.

Most of these pains are safe and just part of being pregnant. But sometimes, belly pain can mean something more serious.

When Is Belly Pain Normal?

Mild belly pain that comes and goes is usually okay. Here’s when it’s normal:

The pain is light, like a dull ache or a quick twinge.
It happens when you move fast, stand up, or stretch.
It goes away after resting or changing positions.

For example, if you feel a little ache after walking a lot, that’s probably your body adjusting to the baby’s growth.

When Should You Worry?

Some belly pain needs a doctor’s attention. Call your doctor if you notice these signs:

Strong Pain: If it hurts a lot and doesn’t stop, that’s not normal.
Bleeding: Any blood from your vagina with pain is a red flag.
Fever or Chills: Feeling hot or shivery with belly pain could mean an infection.
Less Baby Movement: If your baby stops kicking or moving as much, tell your doctor.
Tight Belly That Won’t Relax: If your belly stays hard for a long time, it might be real contractions, not practice ones.

These could be signs of problems like a miscarriage, preterm labor, or an infection. It’s better to be safe and check with a doctor.

How to Feel Better

If your belly pain is normal, you can try these simple tricks:

Rest: Sit or lie down for a bit. Put your feet up if you can.
Warm Bath: A warm (not hot) bath can relax your muscles.
Drink Water: Sometimes, pain comes from not drinking enough. Water helps with gas and constipation too.
Move Slowly: Stand up or change positions gently to avoid ligament pain.
Eat Small Meals: Little bites of food can stop gas from building up.

What Will the Doctor Do?

If you see a doctor, they might:

Check your belly by pressing it gently.
Do an ultrasound to look at the baby.
Ask about your pain—where it is, how bad, and how long it lasts.

This helps them figure out if everything is okay with you and the baby.

Final Thoughts

Belly pain during pregnancy is usually just your body making room for the baby. Things like a growing uterus, stretching ligaments, or gas are common culprits. But if the pain feels wrong or comes with other signs like bleeding, don’t wait—call your doctor. Most of the time, a little rest and care can make you feel better. Enjoy your pregnancy, and take it one day at a time! OR If you need any information related to IVF, contact our Babybloom IVF Centre or call us at 9266046700 to clear your doubt🌸