During pregnancy, several ailments can appear, in particular pain in the stomach. What are the causes ? When to worry and how can you relieve pain? The explanations of an expert.
It is common that during pregnancy, we experience several ailments. Whether at the beginning of pregnancy, with many symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen, or ligament pain. Until the last month before the baby’s arrival, certain pains will accompany you. Lisa Klein-Nephtali, maternity hospital midwife, provides some details on these pains ranging from the first to the third trimester.
What stomach pains during pregnancy?
Usually, during pregnancy, a pregnant woman experiences pain in her stomach. However, the pain can be varied until the day of delivery. There are several types of stomach aches:
- Ligament pain
“During pregnancy the various pains can be linked mainly to the modification of the size of the uterus and therefore to the ligament constraints that this can cause”, explains Lisa Klein-Nephtali, a maternity hospital midwife. Ligament pain is described as a feeling of tightness often placed in the lower abdomen. “Pain often occurs when the patient changes position or moves around. Ligament pain is very common, it is called Lacomme syndrome. They generally do not present any risk. We can sometimes relieve them with a magnesium cure and stretching ”, specifies the professional.
Other types of abdominal pain may appear, including contractions. “It is a pain that comes and goes, it is not constant and does not last more than a minute. It is important to talk to your midwife or gynecologist if they are repeated more than 10 times a day, even at rest ”, insists the midwife.
These pains mainly present during pregnancy can be a sign of infection. They cause pain when you urinate and sometimes the onset of bleeding. If the pain does not go away after a few days or even weeks, it is recommended to see a doctor and have an ultrasound.
From the onset of pregnancy, a woman may experience digestive pain. This is mainly due to the fact that the fetus grows little by little. As well as the uterus. Result: the digestive organs are compressed and this leads to ailments, such as: stomach cramps, gastric reflux, heartburn, bloating or constipation.
Carrying a child is not always fun, although it is a wonderful experience. Indeed, some muscles take a hit. The reason ? Simply put on weight. Overnight, the body has to accept a few extra pounds, so some muscles get tired. In addition, muscle pain can also affect the pelvis or the muscles of the uterus. These pains come from contractions and spasms which are explained by the distension of the uterine muscles (thus causing uterine pain). “Lower back pain appears during pregnancy with the weight of the pregnancy and the posture that changes. Pregnant women have a greater curvature which can cause certain lower back pain which can become disabling. Stretching can be a way to relieve pain ”, specifies Lisa Klein-Nephtali, hospital midwife in maternity ward.
The professional also adds that there are also “Possible pain in the legs related to poor blood circulation which is due to pregnancy. Heavy legs often appear at the end of pregnancy. ” To prevent this pain, the midwife advises to wear compression stockings.
What Causes Stomach Pain During Pregnancy?
You will understand, stomach pain can be varied and can be explained for different reasons. The main origin of these pains apart from contractions is “The hormonal change experienced by the body during pregnancy”, as Lisa Klein-Nephtali, a maternity hospital midwife explains. “In addition, the lack of physical activity can make pregnancy more uncomfortable or even very disabling”, she adds.
When Should You Be Worried About Stomach Pain During Pregnancy?
In most cases, this pain is completely normal. However, the pains are worrying “When they no longer allow the patient to be independent on a daily basis”, explains the midwife. She specifies: “There is no gravity for the fetus, but the mother’s discomfort can affect her well-being and therefore her pregnancy in the long term.”
Finally, for contraction pains, it is important to consult your midwife or referring doctor in order to take stock of the situation. They can be due to many elements depending on the context of each pregnancy.
What are the solutions and remedies for stomach pain?
Fortunately, there are some solutions to relieve and avoid this pain during pregnancy. “To limit the onset of pain during pregnancy, it is important to have regular physical activity throughout pregnancy. You can take analgesics, just ask your midwife or referring doctor for a prescription ”, informs the midwife.
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How to better live your pregnancy?
As a reminder, these pains affect a large majority of pregnant women. It doesn’t matter how many pregnancies. Every pregnancy is different. Lisa Klein-Nephtali, maternity hospital midwife reveals some tips to better understand her pregnancy:
“First of all, you have to be accompanied by a caregiver with whom you feel confident. And don’t hesitate to change if the current doesn’t flow. Remember that all opinions can differ and that is the peculiarity of medicine. This is why you should refer to your caregiver who will not hesitate to ask or refer you to a colleague if necessary. ”
The specialist also advises not to go anywhere on the internet, some information can sometimes be anxiety-provoking. She also adds that the ideal is to have a healthy and balanced lifestyle during pregnancy and to drink plenty of water. This allows you to be psychologically more serene and to be in better health. Finally, do not hesitate to consult a professional in case of doubts or questions, which can sometimes seem trivial, but which have their place in the progress of pregnancy.
Journalist passionate about the lifestyle universe, Ava deciphers all the trends. She is keen to tackle all the subjects that mark our daily lives. Fan of travel, she works as a freelance …