Stomach pain is a common symptom in pregnant mothers. The causes may come from many causes, often depending on the period of pregnancy. There are also other factors that may be the cause of stomach pain. Today we will find the answer together: What is a stomach pain in the middle of a pregnant mother? Should I go to the doctor?
Abdominal pain in the middle of the abdomen, abdominal pain during pregnancy
Because when a mother is pregnant, the body and hormones will undergo many changes, which may make the mother feel uncomfortable, and abdominal pain is a common symptom for pregnant mothers. But sometimes, if there is a lot of pain, many mothers will certainly feel afraid and worried in their minds, which comes from many causes, with the main causes that are often found being:
Enlarged uterus
During pregnancy, the uterus expands to accommodate the growing baby. This may cause a feeling of tightness or dull pain in the lower abdomen or middle of the abdomen. This is a normal symptom that is often not serious and can occur from the second trimester of pregnancy.
Hormonal changes
The increased progesterone hormone during pregnancy slows down the muscles in the digestive tract, making it difficult to digest food, resulting in bloating, colic, stomach tightness, and stomach pain.
Abdominal pain from acid reflux
When the enlarged uterus presses on the stomach and may cause digestive juices to flow back up, causing the pregnant mother to have a burning sensation in the chest, which may cause pain in the middle of the abdomen.
constipation
Pregnancy has hormonal changes and, coupled with reduced movement, can cause constipation, which can lead to abdominal pain.
Gas in the stomach
Hormonal changes, eating habits, and every movement of a pregnant woman’s body all contribute to the accumulation of gas, which can lead to abdominal pain.
Uterine contractions (Braxton Hicks contractions)
During pregnancy, the uterus contracts periodically to prepare for birth. These contractions are usually mild and feel like a dull ache.
Muscle tension
As the uterus enlarges, the abdominal muscles stretch and the pelvis expand, it may cause pain in the lower abdomen or middle of the abdomen.
Baby moves
As the fetus grows, the baby’s movements can press on internal organs, causing pain or colic in the middle of the abdomen.
What kind of stomach pain should prompt you to see a doctor?
- Severe abdominal pain: This could be a sign of pregnancy complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or premature birth.
- Abdominal pain with vaginal bleeding: This could be a sign of miscarriage.
- Abdominal pain accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fever: This may be a sign of infection.
- Sudden abdominal pain: This may be a sign of a serious complication, such as placental complications.
How can I relieve stomach pain?
- Change your eating habits: Eat small, frequent meals to prevent heartburn and indigestion, and avoid spicy, greasy, and fried foods. Eat foods high in fiber and drink enough water.
- Drink plenty of water: This helps to keep your body hydrated and prevents constipation.
- Eat high-fiber foods: Helps prevent constipation
- Exercise regularly: It helps improve digestion and reduces constipation.
- Adjust your posture: Sit up, walk, stretch frequently, and lie on your side.
- Use a back pillow : If you have lower abdominal pain, you can use a soft pillow to support your back. This will help relieve lower abdominal pain and make you feel more comfortable and relaxed. You can also use a pillow if you sleep on your side.
- Avoid wearing high heels : Wearing high heels during pregnancy can cause muscle pain in the mother, and this muscle pain can also affect the lower abdomen. Therefore, try to avoid wearing high heels and wear other types of shoes instead for the safety of the mother and the baby in the womb.
- Sleeping on your left side: Helps relieve pressure on your abdomen.
- Hot or cold compresses: These can help relieve pain.
- Get enough rest: Get enough sleep, 7-9 hours per night.
- Taking painkillers: Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication.
- See a doctor: In case of severe abdominal pain, prolonged pain, pain that does not go away, or other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, vaginal discharge, or vaginal bleeding.
Caution:
- You should not buy medicine to take on your own without consulting a doctor.
- Avoid drinking tea, coffee or caffeinated beverages.
- Avoid smoking
Pregnancy monitoring
- You should see your doctor regularly as scheduled.
- Inform your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Republished with permission from theAsianParent Thailand
