Pulls the stomach in the first weeks of pregnancy. Pulls the stomach in the first weeks of pregnancy What to do to reduce pain in the lower abdomen
Pregnancy, especially the first, is rich in new symptoms and unknown sensations. Some of them may alert the expectant mother - for example, pain in the lower abdomen in the early stages. It is important to know what causes this symptom, and when a doctor's consultation should be immediate.
Lower abdominal pain
Very often, pain in the lower abdomen appears even before the news of pregnancy. We are talking about implantation - the process when a fertilized egg is introduced into the uterine wall. At the same time, the sensations are similar to those during menstruation, more precisely, premenstrual syndrome - it pulls the lower abdomen. However, unlike the latter, menstruation never occurs, and the pain continues.
In the third or fourth week of pregnancy, they can become more intense and make the expectant mother anxious. The pain is different in nature and duration - dull, pulling or sharp, cramping. It can be present almost always, even at rest, or appear only when moving, changing the position of the body, physical activity. The causes of this symptom are manifold.
The reasons
Why pulls the lower abdomen in the third or fourth week of pregnancy? Unpleasant sensations in this zone do not always indicate pathology, they are often associated with physiological changes characteristic of the period of bearing a baby. After all, it is at this time that the load on the female body increases significantly, and many of its organs are being restructured.
The causes of pain in the lower abdomen or lumbar region during pregnancy can be divided into two groups - physiological and pathological.
It is very important to at least approximately represent their main differences, because if the former do not threaten the health of the mother and baby in any way, then the latter can end in failure.
Physiological causes
It would seem that by the fourth week all discomfort should disappear, because implantation has already occurred, and there is no premenstrual syndrome, like menstruation. But in practice, it is during this period that discomfort in the lower abdomen very often worries the expectant mother.
The main physiological reasons for this phenomenon include:
- The growth of the uterus and its pressure on the surrounding organs - the bladder, as well as the intestines.
- Stretching of the uterine ligaments.
- Hypertension of the uterus.
The main difference between physiological pains is that they are transient and short-lived. These unpleasant sensations do not grow in intensity, do not become cramping. And most often the discomfort disappears with rest.
uterus growth
Once implantation has occurred, the uterus begins to grow. And although by the fourth week it slightly increases in size, nevertheless, pressure on the nearby organs - the intestines and bladder - can be felt by the expectant mother, like a dull pulling pain in the lower abdomen. Also, a woman may complain of frequent visits to the toilet without pain and burning in the urethra. Discomfort decreases with rest and change of position.
In addition, the growing uterus gradually shifts the center of gravity of the body, and because of this, pain in lumbar spine.
Stretching of the uterine ligaments
In the abdominal cavity, the uterus is supported by symmetrical round ligaments. As pregnancy progresses, the load on the ligamentous apparatus increases more and more. Fibrous fibers begin to stretch and discomfort occurs.
If the uterus grows quickly, the expectant mother feels her lower abdomen pulling, pain in the groin appears. Over time, the round ligaments adapt to the increasing load, and the discomfort disappears. But in the fourth or fifth week of pregnancy, they may well bother a woman.
Changing the position of the body, reducing physical activity, and frequent rest helps to reduce pain.
Uterine hypertonicity
Since the uterus is a muscular organ, the contraction of its muscles is a natural process. In the later stages, uterine tension is noted by a woman as a petrification of the abdomen. But in the fourth or fifth week, the uterus is too low to be felt. However, the dull pulling pain that accompanies hypertonicity is very common.
It is important that these sensations do not resemble contractions and do not intensify over time. With hypertonicity of the uterus, it is best to lie down and rest a bit. This will help the muscles relax.
Frequent uterine contractions can be triggered by the following factors:
- load.
- Fatigue.
- Psycho-emotional experiences.
- Tight, uncomfortable clothing.
- Colds, SARS, concomitant diseases.
Sometimes uterine hypertonicity is not felt in any way, and this diagnosis is established only according to ultrasound. This condition does not require medical support. But, since sometimes hypertonicity precedes a miscarriage, many doctors prefer to send a pregnant woman to a hospital for round-the-clock monitoring and treatment with antispasmodics.
Pathological causes
There are a lot of diseases that are characterized by abdominal pain. Some of them may accompany pregnancy or be provoked by it.
At the slightest suspicion of the pathological nature of the pain, you should immediately contact a gynecologist. Although the tactics of doctors regarding the preservation of pregnancy for a period of 4-5 weeks is still debatable. According to Western recommendations, during this period, the body rejects embryos with genetic and chromosomal abnormalities, and you should not interfere with this.
However, given how much effort some women put into getting pregnant, many doctors prefer to provide hormonal support to the expectant mother and keep the pregnancy going.
In addition, do not forget that in the early stages, pathological pain is not only a threat of interruption. It can also indicate other pathologies:
- Beginning miscarriage or abortion in progress.
- Ectopic pregnancy.
- Inflammatory diseases of the internal genital organs.
- Fibromyoma of the uterus.
- Diseases of the urinary system.
- Diseases of the stomach, large and small intestines.
- Acute surgical pathology.
Miscarriage
If the threat of termination of pregnancy is manifested only by a dull pain or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen, with a beginning miscarriage or abortion, the nature of the sensations changes in the course. The pain becomes sharp, intense, cramping. In addition, a woman has spotting from the genital tract, her health may deteriorate sharply.
It would be a dangerous mistake to ignore such symptoms. The best option in this situation is to call the ambulance team for emergency hospitalization. Although 4-5 weeks of pregnancy is a short period, no doctor can predict how a miscarriage will end at home. In addition, when the uterus is just beginning to contract, you can have time to provide medical care and save the pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition. If a woman is not helped in time, the pathology can result in profuse bleeding and death.
What are the warning signs of an ectopic pregnancy? The following symptoms are extremely dangerous:
- The appearance of sharp pain. As a rule, it is localized on one side, and at the same time, the lower abdomen does not pull, but hurts a lot.
- Irradiation of pain in the groin, thigh, buttock.
- The appearance of bleeding.
- A sharp increase in pain during rupture of the fallopian tube.
- Sudden weakness, dizziness, palpitations, loss of consciousness.
The last signs indicate the onset of bleeding due to rupture of the tube. In this case, the woman should be hospitalized as soon as possible, until the volume of blood loss has reached critical values.
If an ectopic pregnancy is suspected for a period of 4 weeks, it is necessary to determine the level of chorionic gonadotropin in the blood and perform an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs.
If, according to the analysis, the hormone is detected, but at the same time, the fetal egg cannot be found in the uterine cavity, the diagnosis of an ectopic pregnancy is practically beyond doubt.
Inflammatory diseases
Inflammatory diseases of the internal genital organs - ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes- Not common during pregnancy. But it is impossible to exclude such a pathology. Hypothermia on the eve of conception or shortly after it can lead to the onset of an inflammatory process in the genital area or to an exacerbation of chronic diseases.
This will show up with the following symptoms:
- Pulling pains in the lumbar region, lower abdomen for a period of 3-4 weeks.
- An increase in temperature to subfebrile figures, and in some cases even above 38 °.
- The appearance of unusual discharge from the genital tract.
These complaints should not be ignored or attributed to pregnancy. A launched inflammatory process can disrupt the development of a child or provoke an abortion.
Fibromyoma of the uterus
Uterine fibromyoma is a tumor, but benign. It extremely rarely degenerates into a malignant neoplasm that can metastasize. However, fibroids are prone to growth.
During the period of bearing a baby, under the influence of hormones, the tumor can quickly increase in size, causing a feeling that it is pulling the lower abdomen even in the early stages, the fourth or fifth weeks of pregnancy. This happens if, before conception, a woman already had a fairly large fibromyoma or even several tumors.
It often happens that the expectant mother is unaware of the presence of a volumetric formation in the uterus, especially when she did not plan a pregnancy and did not do an ultrasound before. But if a woman has previously been diagnosed with such a diagnosis, it is necessary to notify the obstetrician-gynecologist.
Diseases of the urinary system
During pregnancy, diseases of the urinary system are often exacerbated. It is connected with anatomical features the female body - the proximity of the location of the uterus to the bladder. Even outside of pregnancy, women are more likely to suffer from inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract - acute and chronic cystitis, pyelitis and pyelonephritis.
During the period of bearing a baby, such patients must be registered and belong to the risk group for the development of an exacerbation of the disease.
Cystitis
In early pregnancy (3 to 4 weeks), your doctor may often hear from future mother a complaint that pulls the lower abdomen, and frequent urination. However, this is normal due to the pressure of the uterus on the bladder.
But in some cases, an inflammatory process really develops at this level. By what signs can a pregnant woman suspect the onset of cystitis? As a rule, this pathology is difficult to confuse with anything. Bladder inflammation is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Sharp or dull pain in the lower abdomen, above the pubis. When pressing with a hand in this place, the pain intensifies.
- Frequent urge to urinate. Some women have to go to the toilet every 5-10 minutes, which causes them considerable inconvenience.
- Cutting, burning and pain when urinating. Discomfort at the end of the process and immediately after it is especially characteristic. The pain syndrome can be very pronounced.
- Sometimes the allocation of drops of blood in the process of urination. This symptom is characteristic of hemorrhagic cystitis and requires a mandatory examination by a urologist.
- The temperature may rise, but normal performance thermometer does not rule out cystitis.
- Visible cloudiness of the urine.
Cystitis is an inflammatory disease that is most often caused by bacteria. That is why it is treated with antibiotics. Most drugs of this action during pregnancy are contraindicated.
But without treatment, cystitis progresses and can turn into inflammation of the kidneys - pyelonephritis. Therefore, antibiotic therapy under the supervision of a physician is required. The diagnosis is established on the basis of characteristic complaints and general urinalysis.
Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is a much more serious disease than cystitis. In this case, the inflammatory process directly affects the kidneys. The disease often becomes chronic, and such women are at risk for developing CRF (chronic renal failure).
During pregnancy, the increased stress on the compromised kidneys can cause them to stop doing their job. This is extremely dangerous not only for the health of the woman, but also for her unborn child.
Pyelonephritis during pregnancy is manifested by severe pain in the lumbar region and lower abdomen, high fever, amazing chills. If this is an exacerbation of chronic pyelonephritis, then the symptoms may not be so pronounced, but fever and pain are always present.
The danger of pyelonephritis lies in the intoxication of the body, which develops in the acute period of the disease. In this case, both mother and child suffer. Such an action is especially unfavorable in the early stages of pregnancy, at the beginning of the first trimester, when the laying of organs is just beginning.
In addition, this disease is also treated exclusively with antibacterial drugs. Sometimes, with an aggressive or resistant pathogen, the doctor has to prescribe drugs from several groups in order to achieve the complete destruction of pathogenic bacteria. However, the side effects of the drugs are summed up, which can adversely affect the development of the fetus.
Pyelonephritis during pregnancy can be a complication of cystitis or a primary disease.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
Sometimes the lower abdomen hurts during pregnancy due to problems in the gastrointestinal tract. It is especially easy to miss this symptom in the first trimester, in the fourth or fifth week.
During this period, in most women, such manifestations of toxicosis as nausea and vomiting are strongly pronounced. And if in an ordinary person these symptoms, combined with pain in the abdomen, immediately suggest an acute intestinal disease (ACI), then even a doctor can make a mistake when carrying a baby.
At 4–5 weeks, the expectant mother should be alerted by abdominal pain in combination with a disorder of the stool or a change in its color. It is not uncommon for OCZ to have a fever and a history of eating questionable foods, especially meat, fish, eggs, or pastries.
Abdominal pain in the early stages may appear against the background of constipation and, as a result, developing colitis. Decreased intestinal motility side effect excess progesterone, which is typical for the beginning of the first trimester.
Pathology of the gastrointestinal tract in early pregnancy is fraught not only with unpleasant symptoms, but also with dehydration against the background of vomiting and diarrhea.
Acute surgical pathology
When carrying a baby, one should not forget about such a disease as acute appendicitis. Of course, it does not occur as often as other diseases, but, nevertheless, it occupies a certain place in the structure of the causes of pain in the early stages.
Classic appendicitis is manifested by the following symptoms:
- Pain in the right lower abdomen.
- Nausea, sometimes vomiting, constipation.
- Sometimes subfebrile.
- Leukocytosis in the general blood test.
All symptoms, except the first, can be attributed to the usual manifestations of pregnancy. Unfortunately, appendicitis pain is not as common as it seems.
In about a third of patients, discomfort appears in the epigastrium (stomach area) and is regarded as an exacerbation of gastritis. For some, the area around the navel, lower abdomen, lower back, or even the left side may hurt. Sometimes - with a high location of the appendix - discomfort appears in the hypochondrium.
The lack of alertness in relation to acute surgical pathology in pregnant women leads to the fact that these diseases are not diagnosed at an early stage. And they talk about appendicitis only when the peritoneum is involved in the process, and the pain becomes intense.
The period of bearing a child does not protect against appendicitis and other surgical pathologies, and this possibility must always be remembered.
Pain in the lower abdomen at 3-4-5 weeks of pregnancy can be associated with various processes. Often they go away on their own, but sometimes they turn out to be a manifestation of the disease. In order to prevent the development of a serious disease, you need to seek medical help in a timely manner and not engage in self-diagnosis and self-treatment.
Why does the lower abdomen pull in the first weeks of pregnancy
Pulls the stomach in the first weeks of pregnancy in many expectant mothers. This is one of the signs of fertilization of the egg. Why might there be such pain? When the egg and sperm merge, a zygote is formed, which begins to move through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Further, it is introduced into its cavity, grows and develops. As a rule, this way takes 6-7 days. The greatest probability of fertilization occurs during the period of ovulation, which begins on the tenth day of the cycle. It turns out that the egg enters the uterus a few days before the onset of menstruation. And when pain occurs, it may turn out that it is not clear whether this is a symptom of the imminent onset of menstruation or whether it pulls the stomach at the beginning of a woman's pregnancy. During the implantation of the egg, it prepares a place of "landing" for itself: it scrapes the epithelium of the uterus. Due to the violation of the integrity of the epithelium layer and the appearance of a foreign body there (the zygote is perceived by the body in this way), the uterus is irritated, therefore, in the earliest period of pregnancy, the stomach pulls a little.
But such sensations speak not only of an interesting situation, but also of the threat of a miscarriage. During fertilization, the woman's egg becomes a foreign body for her, and the body tries in every possible way to get rid of it. However, the immunity of a woman during this period decreases, which means that the fight against foreign body becomes ineffective, which allows the fertilized egg to penetrate into the uterine cavity and gain a foothold there. But its consolidation and further existence can be prevented by many factors ( infectious diseases, smoking, abuse alcoholic drinks, bad ecology, gynecological diseases, etc.). Due to these factors, the muscle tone of the uterus increases greatly, which can lead to the displacement of the fetus from its cavity. Thus, if the fetus is rejected in the early stages, then the woman will not understand that she was in position: at first the uterus hurt, and then bleeding began. She will decide that all these are signs of the onset of menstruation.
Aching pains may not be related to pregnancy at all and premenstrual syndrome. They can appear due to the use of hormonal drugs, stress, inflammation, various diseases, etc.
But if you know for sure that your lower abdomen is pulling in the first weeks of pregnancy, and the pains are cramping and often radiating to the lower back, this should seriously alert you. Especially if spotting is observed. In this case, in order to save the fetus, you should immediately go to the hospital.
But it is not always worth worrying about in the presence of such pains, because most often this is a normal phenomenon. There is no cause for concern if these pains appear periodically, and do not haunt constantly, are not too strong and pass quickly, and most importantly, there is no vaginal discharge. In this situation, serious treatment is not prescribed, the woman will be advised painkillers, sedatives, as well as good sleep, outdoor recreation and light exercises exercise(heavy physical activity is contraindicated).
But still, in order not to worry about the health of the unborn child, you should consult a doctor. You should be examined by a gynecologist and have an ultrasound. The fact is that such pains can be not only due to the increased tone of the uterus, but also due to the presence of an ectopic pregnancy.
In the article we tell why the lower abdomen aches during pregnancy. You will learn what to do in such cases and how it can be prevented.
Why does the lower abdomen ache during pregnancy
Aching pain in the lower abdomen can have different causes
Expectant mothers throughout the entire period of pregnancy may be disturbed by pain in the lower abdomen. This phenomenon can be associated both with natural physiological processes, and indicate various pathologies, diseases of the mother or fetus.
Let's look at what such pains can mean on different terms pregnancy.
In the initial stages, some discomfort and mild pulling pains may be one of the signs of pregnancy.. The uterus is stretched, and therefore the stomach aches at the 6th week of pregnancy. In this case, the pain has a pulling or cramping character and soon releases.
If the stomach aches like before menstruation during pregnancy, it constantly hurts in the lower abdomen in the early stages, you should immediately consult a doctor. This can signal such diseases and pathologies:
- urinary infection;
- ectopic pregnancy;
- miscarriage;
- inflammatory process in the fallopian tubes;
- uterine hypertonicity.
At week 10, the expectant mother has a scheduled 2 visit to the gynecologist. During this period, a woman may also complain of abdominal pain. Under the influence of hormones and in connection with the growth of the fetus, the ligaments that hold the uterus soften and stretch. This may be accompanied by episodic pulling pains on the sides of the abdomen and in the groin area. If at the 10th week of pregnancy the lower abdomen aches, while the pain is accompanied spotting, this may indicate a threatened miscarriage.
The same symptoms occur if the stomach aches at the 12th week of pregnancy.
In the 2nd trimester, if the pregnancy proceeds normally, most often women do not complain of pain. Right now, the fetus is not large enough to cause inconvenience to the mother. The uterus is constantly growing, it has not yet reached the size when it begins to put pressure on the internal organs.
However, some expectant mothers complain that at the 15th week of pregnancy, the lower abdomen aches. If no other unpleasant symptoms are observed, then this means that the muscles of the uterus are greatly stretched. This, in turn, can cause mild pain that does not threaten pregnancy. Do not panic prematurely, the woman's body is preparing for the upcoming birth, so stretching the muscles of the uterus is quite normal.
The threat of miscarriage in this period is significantly reduced, but pain can occur for the following reasons:
- physical stress;
- stress, nervous exhaustion;
- the movement of the baby inside the uterus;
- problems in the work of the gastrointestinal tract, constipation.
In the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the woman's body begins to intensively prepare for the upcoming birth.. Already at this stage, the expectant mother periodically has training contractions, which can lead to abdominal pain. Also, if the lower abdomen aches at the 34th week of pregnancy, this may indicate a number of problems:
- urinary infection;
- premature birth;
- placental abruption.
Placental abruption is accompanied by bleeding. Sometimes it can be internal, and the blood does not go out through the genital tract, it collects in the abdominal cavity. In this case, the woman has sharp pains in the abdomen. In this case, urgent hospitalization is necessary.
Aching lower abdomen at 35 weeks pregnant? What does this mean:
- training bouts;
- early birth.
If the pain disappears within 15-20 seconds, then your body is preparing for the upcoming birth with the help of contractions. If the time between contractions begins to shorten, pack your things and go to the hospital.
If the lower abdomen aches at the 36th week of pregnancy and at the same time pulls the lower back, but the pain is not severe, then this is a sign of the norm. You should rest, change the position of the body. If the pain does not let go even after a long rest, you need to see a doctor. These symptoms may indicate the development of oligohydramnios. If the pulling pain in the abdomen is accompanied by vaginal discharge, this indicates a premature birth, which is undesirable at this time.
A week later, the stomach begins to fall. The child is almost fully formed, breathes independently and is able to digest food. The fetus has already taken a permanent position. Almost all children by this time are already turned head down. It is quite normal when the stomach aches at 37 weeks of gestation. Pulling, slightly painful sensations in the lower abdomen - a harbinger of an approaching birth.
The 38th week of pregnancy is the period when a child can be born without fear for his life. Now the false contractions are getting much more intense, and some women are panicking about it. As in the previous week, you should not be afraid if the lower abdomen aches at the 38th week of pregnancy - very soon you will become a mother, and the baby will let you know about it.
If in the last 14 days your stomach has not dropped, it will happen exactly in the last week before delivery. If the stomach aches at the 39th week of pregnancy, and the pain radiates to the lower back, this indicates that the birth is very soon.
What to do if your stomach hurts
Pain in the abdomen can accompany a woman throughout the entire period of bearing a child. In some cases, this is the norm. But if the pain in the abdomen does not go away for a long time and is accompanied by bloody discharge and a general deterioration in the condition of the woman, you should consult a doctor to find out the cause.
If the pain has become sharp and very noticeable, call immediately ambulance. This, depending on the duration of pregnancy, may mean a threatened miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, a frozen fetus, detachment of the amniotic egg, premature birth, or an exacerbation of chronic diseases in the mother.
Abdominal pain may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- dizziness;
- weakness;
- fainting;
- bloody discharge from the vagina;
- bleeding.
The doctor will conduct a thorough examination and find out if there is a threat to the fetus. In some cases, drastic measures may be necessary: surgery, inpatient treatment, etc. If you seek medical attention on time, the doctors will be able to give you the care you need and keep the pregnancy going.
Some future mothers come with complaints that the right side of the lower abdomen aches during pregnancy. On the right side of the abdomen are the liver, gallbladder, part of the intestines and the right side of the diaphragm. Such pain may indicate diseases of these internal organs or inflammation of the appendix.
When the left side aches during pregnancy, this may indicate problems with the stomach, pancreas, spleen, intestinal loops and the left side of the diaphragm.
Prevention of aching pain
Do not forget to rest, observe the daily routine
If you went to the doctor with a complaint that the lower abdomen aches during pregnancy, and at the same time he did not reveal any serious abnormalities, then you should reconsider some of your habits and diet.
- Review your diet. Eliminate spicy, fried and smoked foods from your menu. Choose light, protein-rich foods (white meat, lean fish, nuts). Remember to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Be sure to keep the water regime. Do not get carried away with carbonated drinks and coffee.
- Limit physical activity. This does not mean that you have to lie in bed all the time. If the doctor has not found any threats to your health and the life of the baby, you need to walk more in the fresh air, engage in gentle sports. Well suited for women carrying a child, gymnastics for pregnant women, yoga, swimming.
- Never take hot baths. Even foot baths can provoke the loss of a child in the early stages.
- Don't forget healthy sleep. The duration of sleep during pregnancy should be at least 9 hours. It is also advisable to take a short break for daytime sleep.
- Pay attention to your mental state. You don't have to worry about trifles. Avoid stress and mental stress. If you have nervous work try to take maternity leave before. This is allowed by law, you need to contact a gynecologist, he can help in opening sick leave pregnancy before 7 months.
If the stomach aches during early pregnancy, and at the same time, examinations do not confirm any danger, do not worry. Your body adjusts to a new, unusual state for it. Here it is necessary to recall once more proper nutrition and lifestyle.
In the later stages, with aching pains in the abdomen, you need to take more frequent rest breaks. Change position: if you were standing - sit down, if you were lying on your right side - roll over to your left. Take deep breaths. It is better to take courses for expectant mothers, which teach the basics of breathing exercises.
For more information about abdominal pain during pregnancy, see the video:
What to remember
- Now you know why the lower abdomen aches during pregnancy. In most cases, this is the norm. However, if the pain does not go away for a long time, there is a discharge or other painful sensations, consult a doctor.
- We told in which cases the lower abdomen and lower back ache at the 38th week of pregnancy. Such pains are harbingers of an approaching birth. At this time, you can no longer worry that labor activity began prematurely. There is no threat to the life of the baby at all, his organs are fully formed. The child can already breathe and digest food on his own.
Seeing 2 cherished stripes on a pregnancy test is the cherished dream of many women. But sometimes time moves inexorably forward, and the stork is in no hurry to fly.
How do you know that a new life has arisen within you? And, if the usual menstruation did not come on the right day and the lower abdomen hurts, is this a sign of pregnancy? Or can such a condition be caused by other processes in the body? Let's figure it out.
Pain in the lower abdomen and possible pregnancy
So, the new menstrual cycle is nearing completion and you are looking forward to the "news" about the desired conception.
Of course, pregnancy, its inception and course is a purely individual process and can take place in different ways. But there are still basic similar signs, and one of them is a “pulling” pain in the lower abdomen.
Causes of pain in the lower abdomen at the beginning of pregnancy
- The process of fusion of female and male eggs occurs during the period of ovulation, which, as a rule, falls in the middle of the cycle;
- A few days (usually from 6 to 12) after fertilization, the egg reaches the uterus, passing through the fallopian tubes;
- In the wall of the female reproductive organ, she finds a "cozy place" and is fixed in it;
- At the same time, the fertilized cell seems to “push apart” the epithelial cells in order to settle better;
- The process of implantation causes the first signs of pregnancy, in which the lower abdomen hurts and scanty spotting appears;
- Most often, the “settlement” of the egg occurs towards the end of the cycle, when only a few days remain before menstruation.
Therefore, aching or pulling pain in the lower abdomen means either the successful fixation of the zygote, or the approaching menstruation (if fertilization has not occurred).
Interesting! Drawing pain (moderate) in the region of the suprapubic zone often means the fact that the female body has accepted the future baby. All organs and systems "start" the necessary processes and are ready to help the full growth and development of the crumbs.
Pulling in the lower abdomen: how to recognize pregnancy
It is quite difficult to determine the onset of pregnancy. Often a woman perceives such sensations as harbingers of menstruation.
If implantation was accompanied by spotting bleeding, most often there is only one verdict - the onset of menstruation. In such cases, the expectant mother does not even suspect a joyful event that has taken place in her body.
So, what to do if there are pulling pains in the lower abdomen?
The answer is simple: nothing.
We got a long-awaited positive result - wonderful, soon a joyful event is expected in your house.
Attention! Drawing pains in the suprapubic part are typical for about 4 weeks of pregnancy. If after a while the pain does not go away, but only intensifies, go to the doctor.
It is also important to ensure peace and rest for yourself, it is worth taking sick leave at work in order to spend a few days in bed.
By the way! The doctor, with complaints of pain in the lower abdomen, will most likely immediately diagnose you with uterine tone and prescribe a whole bunch of pills and hormones. Do not rush to take them!
Read the article about uterine tone and make sure that doctors often play it safe: Uterine tone in early pregnancy >>>).
Also take a look at the online course posted on the site, where, in addition to recommendations for a healthy conception, you will learn how to live the first weeks of pregnancy and bear a healthy baby. Follow the link: I want a baby!>>>
If you think that you felt the first signs of pregnancy just because your stomach hurts, you should carefully listen to the sensations of your body. Usually, the birth of a miracle is accompanied by some additional signs:
- Delayed menstruation (by the way, read the current article: Can menstruation occur during pregnancy?>>>);
- Abundant vaginal discharge caused by dysbacteriosis;
- The appearance of a metallic taste in the mouth, sensitivity to odors;
- swelling of the breast (mammary glands), darkening of the halo;
- Mood swings, irascibility, irritability.
Lower abdomen hurts: when is the help of a doctor needed?
Unfortunately, sipping in the lower abdomen does not always mean pregnancy.
Sometimes this phenomenon is a sign of gynecological diseases - they are often accompanied by a similar symptom. Often the pain intensifies before menstruation, which can be perceived as early sign pregnancy.
In some cases, pain in the area below the navel can be triggered by the following pathologies:
- Gynecological diseases;
- Apoplexy of the ovaries. Doctors call this term a hemorrhage in the ovarian tissue;
- Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy (read the article: How to identify an ectopic pregnancy?>>>).
Important! Incessant aching pain in the lower abdomen is a reason for an immediate appeal to a specialist.
Ectopic pregnancy, cysts and ovarian apoplexy are eliminated only by surgery. The loss of precious time in such cases can lead to disastrous consequences.
- Diseases of the genitourinary system;
It cannot be unequivocally stated that pain in the lower abdomen is a sign of indispensable pregnancy. In some cases, it can be provoked by cystitis - inflammatory process in bladder. Additional signs of such a disease are:
- frequent and painful urination;
- pain in the lumbar region;
- the presence of blood in the urine.
The health of a woman, her mental state lays the foundation for the health and psyche of the unborn child.
That is why it is so important to pay attention to any sensations, appearances of pain or heaviness. The feeling of discomfort when it hurts or pulls the lower abdomen during pregnancy occurs in many women quite often. Sometimes soreness can be a signal of the pathology of the development of pregnancy. Abdominal pain during pregnancy can indicate uterine hypertonicity and the threat of miscarriage. How dangerous for the health of the unborn child are pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy? And what to do when the stomach aches, muscles hurt or colic appears?
Physiological changes during pregnancy
Pain is a sign of stress. The beginning of pregnancy in the body stimulates hormonal changes, as a result of which the uterus and mammary glands begin to enlarge. The volume of rotating blood increases, it changes chemical composition, the pulse quickens. The network of blood vessels in the lower abdomen and in the chest expands. The ligaments and muscles of the abdomen prepare for stress, they soften in the first weeks of pregnancy and further, as the abdomen grows, they stretch and thicken. The pelvic organs are shifted and squeezed. Because of this, the expectant mother has to take food in small portions. Intestinal peristalsis becomes difficult, constipation and colic appear.
The most active restructuring occurs in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. Ailments may occur: drowsiness, sweating, nausea or heartburn, pain in the lower abdomen, colic and constipation. Almost every woman during pregnancy pulls the lower abdomen. Periodically, there are short, mild pains in the abdomen during pregnancy. Physiological changes in a woman's body during pregnancy are associated with the growth of the baby, they are normal and natural.
Why does my stomach hurt during pregnancy?
The causes of pain during pregnancy are conventionally divided into obstetric and non-obstetric. Obstetric pains in the lower abdomen include pathologies that cause miscarriage or placental abruption. Non-obstetric pains are all the rest: colic in the lower abdomen, pain from constipation and flatulence, pain from sprains, aching sensations from the abdominal muscles, moderate pain in the perineum and in the lower abdomen from the divergence of the pelvic bones. Knowing the causes of discomfort will make it possible to understand whether the stomach hurts during pregnancy due to changes in physiology or from overload.
The list of causes that can cause lower pain during pregnancy is as follows:
- Stretching of the muscles of the ligaments. In the first weeks, the stomach can be pulled during pregnancy from the tension of the round ligaments located on the sides of the uterus. Pain in the first weeks of pregnancy occurs in women with a physiologically displaced uterus. The uterus moves to take a position in the middle of the pelvis. It has been noticed that pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy occurs more often in those women who have previously experienced painful periods.
- An increase in the mobility of the pelvic bone joints causes pain in the lower abdomen in the later stages, a “duck gait” may appear.
- Periodic contractions of the uterus, felt as a contraction, tension or heaviness in the lower abdomen. The feeling when the stomach pulls in the first weeks of pregnancy speaks of the muscle tension that has appeared, which doctors call a state of increased uterine tone. It is observed in the last trimester of pregnancy and becomes more frequent with the approach of childbirth in the last month.
- Physical overload: excessive weight lifting, running. In the last trimester of pregnancy, unacceptable physical activity will cause a feeling when it pulls the lower abdomen, increase the tone of the uterus and provoke premature birth.
- Neuropsychiatric disorders and experiences. Often the answer to the question “Why does my stomach hurt?” is the situation of a person's own inadequate destructive reaction to an irritating situation. During pregnancy, strong negative experiences cause muscle tension, tone and pain in the lower abdomen. The best ways cope with the situation - self-control and psychological self-correction. If necessary, you can seek the help of a qualified psychologist.
- Digestive disorders. Compression of the intestines (especially in the later stages) and a weakening of the digestive activity create flatulence, colic, constipation, causing intestinal pain in the lower abdomen.
- Gynecological diseases (such as an ovarian cyst) can also cause pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy. In such cases, medical advice is required.
- Diseases of organs that are not associated with the gynecological system of a woman (appendicitis, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction) cause pain in the lower abdomen and require immediate examination and consultation with a surgeon.
Most often, during pregnancy, it pulls, sips, aches at the beginning (first and second months) and at the end (eighth and ninth, prenatal). An enlarged belly during pregnancy becomes noticeably heavy only after the seventh month. In the middle of gestation (from the third to the seventh month), the woman's sensations stabilize, become comfortable and acceptable. If you doubt the cause of the pain, you cannot decide why the discomfort bothers you, consult a doctor.
What to do to reduce pain in the lower abdomen
- Diet should provide work digestive system. Mandatory for the work of intestinal motility vegetables and fruits, nuts. Fermented milk products will provide the necessary microflora and enzymes for the digestion of food, and prevent colic. Sufficient fluid intake (not excessive and not scanty) maintains the necessary water balance. You need to know that the lack and restriction of drinking water initiates the processes of fluid storage in the body and subsequent swelling. It is necessary to limit fats, carcinogens, coffee, muffins and sweets. The simpler and more natural the diet of the expectant mother is, the better for her own well-being and the health of the growing baby.
- Available exercise stress, gymnastics and special exercises for stretching the muscles of the perineum and ligaments. Why is it important to do gymnastics and prepare the body for childbirth special exercises? Because pregnancy is not a disease, it is a normal physiological state for a woman's body. Therefore, the average physical activity is not only desirable, it is necessary. Exercises that help prepare the body for childbirth include various stretches, tilts, butterfly and fish poses:
- Get on your knees, spread your knees shoulder-width apart and sit with your buttocks between them. This position stretches the ligaments of the perineum. If the condition of the body allows, you can carefully lie on your back - this position is called "fish".
- "Butterfly". Sitting on the floor (on the rug), bend at the knees and pull your legs towards you with your heels. Rest your heels against each other and try to lower your knees to the floor. The pose is similar to "Turkish sitting".
- Relaxing and squeezing the perineal muscles will help when the muscles are sore. This exercise will help you learn how to control the perineum. It is performed as if you want to go to the toilet (“in a small way”) and keep yourself from it, endure. In this case, the muscles of the perineum tense. Hold the tension for 10 seconds and relax the perineum. It is especially important to do this exercise during the preparation for childbirth.
- Walking and affordable walking loads stimulate blood flow, improve the supply of oxygen to all organs of the mother's body and the placenta. This speeds up the process of removing toxins. It has been established that the most painful sprains occur in sedentary women who lead an inactive lifestyle. In order to prevent the condition when the muscles of the legs hurt, foot loads should be daily.
- Avoid negative experiences. Try to reduce or remove psychological complexes. Why is it so important to monitor your experiences and emotions? The human body is an integral structure consisting of physical matter and information. Any emotions and thoughts are reflected in bodily sensations. Fear, anger, indignation, irritation, anger and envy cause spasm, contraction of the muscles of any organs, arms, legs, face and, of course, during pregnancy, the muscles of the pelvis and abdomen. Compression and overstrain of the muscles in the lower abdomen compresses the vessels of the circulatory system that supply the child with food and oxygen. As a result of mother's emotions, the child receives a physiological blow in the form of prolonged oxygen starvation.
Remedies for pain relief in the lower abdomen during pregnancy
If you understand that the pains in the lower abdomen are non-increasing and non-periodic, caused by physiological changes in your body, you can use some means to calm them down:
- A warm bath will help you relax and relieve muscle tension.
- Rest, relaxation, lying position.
- Bandage - reduces stretching of the abdominal muscles and reduces pain.
When does pain during pregnancy in the lower abdomen become dangerous?
It is necessary to know that great importance has the intensity of pain below and the frequency of their sensation. The feeling of heaviness when pulling the lower abdomen, intensifying and developing into a clear pain in the lower abdomen, should alert. There may be pain in the lumbar region, girdle pain and pulling sensations in the pelvic area. Especially worrisome factor there will be a periodicity in the pains below. Such signs often signal a possible or already begun miscarriage or premature birth. Pain and colic in the lower abdomen may be accompanied by bloody discharge of mucus. Urgent medical attention is needed to save the baby.
Instead of an afterword
Discomfort, pain, colic, a feeling of heaviness are not an unequivocal pathology of pregnancy. It doesn’t matter if the stomach hurt during pregnancy, whether it was drawn to it, these sensations are transferred and quickly forgotten with the birth of the baby and the emergence of new joyful worries.