Abdominal pains can occur at almost any stage in pregnancy. While they may be worrisome for the mother, especially if it is her first pregnancy, in many cases there is no cause for concern unless abdominal pains are accompanied by other more serious symptoms. Often, abdominal discomfort is just a normal part of the usual pregnancy aches and pains.
Cramping vs Abdominal Pain in Early Pregnancy
During early pregnancy, cramping is not unusual. Cramping often occurs around the same time the fertilized egg implants itself in the uterine wall. Abdominal pain, however, may be an indicator of an ectopic pregnancy. A pregnancy is called ectopic when the fertilized egg attaches somewhere other than the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. Abdominal pain from an ectopic pregnancy is usually localized in the lower abdomen, though according to Medline Plus, it may also be felt in the pelvis or the lower back. Ectopic pregnancies also cause nausea and bleeding. Abdominal pain accompanied by these symptoms in early pregnancy requires prompt medical attention.
Types: Round Ligament Pain
During the second trimester, it is common for pregnant women to experience pain from the stretching of the ligaments around the pelvis and belly. This is called round ligament pain. According to the American Pregnancy Association, round ligament pain is often sharp, and may occur on one or both sides of the belly. For some women, it may travel to the pelvis or groin. While round ligament pain is not particularly pleasant, it is also not a serious medical condition. Most episodes can be avoided by following a few guidelines for movement. These include standing slowly from a seated position, avoiding sudden movements and flexing the hips when coughing or laughing. This type of abdominal pain in pregnancy usually disappears by the third trimester.
Warning: Preeclampsia Can Cause Abdominal Pain
Preeclampsia, a condition that causes elevated blood pressure and protein in the urine, may cause pain symptoms in some pregnant women. The abdominal pain associated with preeclampsia is specific: the Mayo Clinic states that it is often just below the ribs, and usually on the right side. Other symptoms of preeclampsia include headaches, vomiting and a sudden weight gain. Preeclampsia requires immediate medical attention, and may be managed with medications or bed rest.
Potential: Abdominal Pain May Be Labor
Another potential cause of abdominal pain late in pregnancy is labor. Labor pains can occur in the abdomen, though sometimes they are felt in the back, as well. The March of Dimes distinguishes between real labor and false labor, which may include Braxton-Hicks contractions: false labor is irregular, and causes abdominal pain that subsides when walking. True labor, however, is marked by regular pains that become more intense over time. Labor also requires prompt medical attention--but in a good way.
Considerations For Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy
The Mayo Clinic warns that pregnant women with abdominal pain should consult their doctors. Many of the symptoms that accompany some of the more serious causes of pregnancy pains are similar to those of pregnancy themselves, which means that serious problems have the potential to go untreated. March of Dimes adds that a doctor should also be consulted if normal aches and pains have gotten more intense. This is especially true of you are vomiting, develop a fever or notice vaginal bleeding.
