Lower Abdominal Pain during Pregnancy

There are several causes for lower abdominal pain during pregnancy. Read on to find out when the lower abdominal pain during pregnancy can be the cause of concern.Lower abdominal pain during pregnancy is a common phenomenon especially as you progress in your pregnancy and accommodate your growing baby. There are various harmless causes of lower abdominal pain during pregnancy but some may be serious and pose a threat for your baby’s health.As an expecting mother, it is important to be aware of all the potential causes of lower abdominal pain so that you can assure your health as well as your baby’s. But in any case if pain is experienced is a must to consult an obstetrician to be on a safer side. In this articleCommon Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain during PregnancyRound Ligament PainConstipation and GasBraxton Hicks ContractionsOther Common DiscomfortsWhen to Contact Your Doctor?How to Prevent Lower Abdomen Pain during Pregnancy?Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain during PregnancyPossible causes of abdominal pains and aches during pregnancy, which are generally common and harmless in nature, are as follows.Round Ligament PainRound ligament pain is caused by the swelling of two large ligaments running from uterus to your groin, which is characterized by a sharp stabbing pain in your lower abdomen when you move or change positions. As your uterus grows to accommodate your growing baby, these ligaments stretch and elongate causing a dull lingering pain in the lower part of your belly. This pain has generally been reported to be experienced during second trimester and considered harmless by obstetricians.Constipation and GasDuring pregnancy, your body produces increased levels of Progesterone leading to excessive gas. Additionally, your metabolism is not as fast as it used to be which makes food travel down your gastrointestinal tract more slowly, leading to problems like gas and constipation. To avoid the discomfort caused in your lower abdomen, you can stay hydrated and consume fibre rich food.Braxton Hicks ContractionsMany women report false labour contractions, known as Braxton Hicks Contractions, in their last trimester of pregnancy. These are characterized by tightening of stomach muscles, causing extreme pain and discomfort in lower abdomen. Unlike true labour contractions, these do not follow a certain rhythm and gradually vanish with time. Many women, especially first time mothers, cannot differentiate between true and false labour contractions but it is important to educate yourself of the differences to safeguard your baby’s health. Braxton Hicks Contractions are most often caused due to dehydration and over exertion during pregnancy. Hence, staying hydrated throughout the day and getting enough rest can eliminate this issue and provide relief from lower abdominal pain.Other Common DiscomfortsIn addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other common lower abdominal pain causes that can be experienced during pregnancy and generally do not pose any serious health risk on your child’s or your health. Minor viruses in gastrointestinal tract, food sensitivities and growing uterus are all examples of causes that could lead to lower abdominal pain during pregnancy.When to Contact Your Doctor?If you exhibit any severe symptoms like these listed below, you should call your medical care professional immediately to get adequate medical attention:Persistent lower abdomen painAbnormal vaginal dischargeSpotting or bleedingFeverChills or night sweatsShortness of breathFatigue or excessive weaknessNausea or vomitingPain or experience of burning sensation while urinatingVisual disturbancesHow to Prevent Lower Abdomen Pain during Pregnancy?Here are a few tips you can follow to prevent lower abdomen pain during pregnancy that may arise due to the minor issues:Staying hydrated throughout the dayExercise regularly in moderation after consulting your obstetricianConsuming fibre rich foods (example: fruits, green leafy vegetables and bran)Urinate as soon as you feel the need to empty your bladderEat small and frequent mealsGet enough restIf you experience warning symptoms at any phase of your pregnancy, do not hesitate to contact your obstetrician. It is important to watch out for red flags at all times and get treated for any possible medical complication at time to ensure that your baby is born healthy.What are the causes of lower abdominal pain during pregnancy? Can lower abdominal pain during pregnancy cause harm to the foetus? When is it necessary to consult an obstetrician? Discuss here.