Why Do You Get Lower Back Pain In Early Pregnancy
Bob explains back pain during early pregnancy is really due to hormonal changes particularly with progesterone and relaxin. Their job is to prepare the pelvic cavity for pregnancy. These hormones help to relax the pelvic muscles and loosen the ligaments and soft tissues, which can lead to the back being overburdened.Dec 9, 2020.
Uterus Pain In Early Pregnancy
During early pregnancy, you may experience mild twinges or cramping in the uterus. You may also feel aching in your vagina, lower abdomen, pelvic region, or back. It may feel similar to menstrual period cramps.
These minor pains may be caused by different factors like implantation, constipation or gas, or the womb expanding and your ligaments stretching to make room for your baby.
If the pain is mild and goes away on its own, its likely nothing to worry about. But any pain along with spotting or heavy bleeding should be reported to your doctor.
Seek emergency care if you experience sharp or chronic pain along with faintness, nausea, high fever or chills, or dizziness.
Read on to learn more about the causes for uterus pain in early pregnancy and when to seek help.
In The First Trimester
In the first trimester, hormonal changes will have an effect on close to all the organs that are in your body. Early pregnancy symptoms occurring at this stage include:
- Weight gain or loss
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
In early pregnancy, abdominal pain should not be a source of concern. But, in case it is accompanied by additional symptoms, you may need to get professional medical help, as it may be a sign of:
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What Are Sharp Stomach Pains During Pregnancy
It can be difficult and stressful for pregnant women to tell the difference between normal pregnancy pains and signs that something is wrong. As your body adjusts to accommodate the fetus, some discomfort or pain is natural.
While some abdominal pain can be normal, it can sometimes be a symptom of pregnancy complications. If youre experiencing unfamiliar, sharp abdominal pain, contact your doctor who can help you tell the difference. During routine check-ups, you also should update your healthcare provider on any pains youre experiencing.
Changes In The Stomach Are Driven By A Few Factors And To Each It Is A New Process
Pregnancy to each individual comes in a different way and thus, the changes are also different. One may see early signs quickly while the other may show signs slowly. It depends on person to person:
- For new mothers, signs of pregnancy on stomach might show much later than the ones who already have delivered a baby.
- The body type of mothers also play a key role in depicting bodily changes
- Health and habits of the mother also have a sufficient contribution to the cycle
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General Abdominal Pain In Pregnancy
If you are having general pain in the abdomen but not specifically in the stomach, it could be due to a benign cause or it could be of concern. Your abdomen is growing and your organs are shifting, so some dull pain and an occasional sharp jab are normal.
The usual causes are:
- Braxton Hicks contractions: Often without pain, Braxton Hicks may cause discomfort or pain during the second and third trimester when experiencing these “practice” contractions.
- Cramping: Cramps may be felt due to the expansion of the uterus. These are usually not severe and subside after a few minutes of rest.
- Gas, bloating, or constipation: These symptoms are common due to the high levels of the hormone progesterone during pregnancy, which slows down digestion.
- Round ligament pain: You may feel this in the second trimester as the ligament that runs from your uterus to your groin is stretched. This can be a sharp stabbing pain when you make a change in position or it can be a dull, achy pain.
Case & Commentarypart 1
A 34-year-old woman who was 14 weeks pregnant presented to the emergency department with 5 days of nonspecific abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. On examination, she appeared well with normal vital signs and had some mild diffuse abdominal tenderness. Her white blood cell count was 19,000 cells/L, and a urinalysis was positive for nitrates and leukocyte esterase . She was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and was discharged on antibiotic therapy. No imaging was performed at this initial visit.
The patient returned the following day with unchanged abdominal pain and more nausea and vomiting. A fetal ultrasound was performed and found normal fetal heart activity. No further testing was done, and she was discharged home with instructions to continue the antibiotics.
Abdominal pain remains the most common reason for emergency department visits, comprising more than 11% of all visits in 2008. In 2011, 54% of patients that presented to the ED were female, more than 25% were of childbearing age, and the pregnancy rate in the United States is approximately 10% at any given time. For these reasons, clinicians that evaluate patients with abdominal pain in the ED should be familiar with common causes of abdominal pain in pregnant women and appreciate when nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is abnormal.
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Pregnancy Heartburn Or Indigestion
Heartburn is a burning feeling that starts in the stomach and seems to rise up to the throat. During pregnancy, changing hormone levels slow down your digestive system, weaken the stomach sphincter, and your uterus can crowd your stomach, pushing stomach acids upward.
Recommendations:
- Try to avoid constipation. Constipation can cause hemorrhoids and will make them more painful.
- Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time change your position frequently.
- Don’t strain during a bowel movement.
- Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the area or take a warm bath a few times a day to provide relief.
- Avoid tight-fitting underwear, pants, or pantyhose.
- If you still need more help, consult your health care provider.
How Does Your Stomach Feel
Feeling pain in your lower abdomen or feeling like your abdomen is difficult or swollen isnt related to an early signs of maternity.
To the bit, somebodys stomach and abdomen wont show any noticeable signs of maternity till later, betting on your specific build. Those that are in their initial maternity typically do not begin showing till twenty weeks or later.
Its Completely understood, to stress regarding stomach pain in gestation and be concerned regarding this being a proof of miscarriage. However, stomach pains or cramps are common in gestation and frequently nothing to stress about.
Mild stomach pain in early gestation is sometimes caused by your womb increasing, the ligaments stretching as your bump grows, hormones constipation, or at the bay wind.
It sometimes feels like a stitch or a gentle amount of pain. Its is perhaps nothing to stress regarding if the pain is gentle and goes away once you change position, have a rest, do a poo or pass wind.
You may additionally feel light-weight period-like discomfort or cramps at the tip of your pregnancy. This can be nothing to stress about, however, you can see doctor if youve got any doubt.
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Are Cramps During Pregnancy Normal
Some abdominal cramping and stomach pain in pregnancy is common. Early pregnancy cramps can be linked to many run-of-the-mill pregnancy symptoms, including constipation or increased blood flow to the uterus.
Later on in pregnancy, pregnancy pains could be linked to normal symptoms like Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain.
Sometimes, however, abdominal pain during pregnancy can be a sign of a condition that requires medical attention, like a urinary tract infection, miscarriage, preterm labor or preeclampsia. Its always safest to about any symptom that concerns you.
The following are common causes of abdominal pain and cramps during pregnancy that can occur during any trimester:
How Reliable Are Home Pregnancy Tests
According to the NHS, home pregnancy tests are reliable as long as you follow the instructions correctly. It may not be reliable if you didnt follow instructions or youve taken the test too early.
Most pregnancy tests can be taken after the first missed period, with any tests taken before this time running the risk of being inaccurate. Professionals also recommend avoiding drinking too much fluid ahead of doing a test, as it can dilute the level of HGC.
Negative tests may not be reliable if youve taken it too early, as the level of HGC might not be enough at the time of taking it. Tests can also vary in their sensitivity and so its recommended you read instructions thoroughly before using one, as theres no guarantee each one will be the same.
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What Are Five Common Signs Of Pregnancy
There are several signs of early pregnancy that you could experience. Not everyone will have all of these symptoms, and some women may not feel any of these things. Pregnancy symptoms throughout the entire pregnancy can vary dramatically between women. Its important not to compare your pregnancy to someone elses.
Common early pregnancy symptoms can include:
When Should I Worry About Cramping During My Pregnancy
When youre pregnant, your body undergoes many changes as it makes room for your little one . While some of these changes may be no big whoop, others, particularly things like cramping, can have you quickly searching Google for their causes.
While some mild pregnancy cramps are a normal symptom of your ever-expanding body, other cramps could indicate a serious problem. Pregnancy cramps can give many women anxiety, so its important to know the common reasons for their occurrence and what you should do about them.
We asked Srijaya Soujanya Nalla, MD, an OBGYN at Banner Health Clinic in Loveland, CO, to help explain the normal causes for cramping, abnormal causes and treatment recommendations for both.
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Drinking Lots Of Water
During week 1, its smart to set up healthy lifestyle habits to maintain through your entire pregnancy.
For many moms-to-be, it can be tough to give up alcohol. But doing so is important for the health of your future baby.
Its also a good idea during week 1 to give up sugary drinks, which can also be bad for the health of your baby not to mention you!
We know that this is tough. But instead of grabbing that can of cola or bottle er, glass of wine, hydrate with the recommended 8 to 11 glasses of water every day. Besides, its good practice for when youre pregnant and need to drink even more.
Why Do I Have Stomach Pain In The Morning
A change in diet, loss of weight, and elevating your head during sleep can reduce GERDs morning symptoms. 2. Food Poisoning. Dumbfound? If the food you ate in the evening or at midnight is contaminated with viruses, bacteria, or parasites, it can cause stomach pain in the morning when you wake up, nausea, vomiting, or even fever.
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Harmless Causes Of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
From constipation to round ligament pain, here are some common culprits that cause harmless abdominal discomfort during pregnancy. Keep in mind that if the pain you’re experiencing continuesor if you have worrisome symptoms such as bleeding or strong crampingyou should check in with your OB-GYN right away.
Tummy Twinges Pinching And Pulling
Some women experience feelings inside their stomachs in the early stages of pregnancy that replicate the sensation of their muscles being pulled and stretched. Sometimes referred to as abdominal twinges, these tingles are nothing to worry about.
Layla Rumble, midwife at The Portland Hospital, which is part of HCA Healthcare UK, said, Abdominal twinges and mild pains are very common during pregnancy and usually nothing to worry about. Twinges and abdominal pain is usually caused by constipation, ligament pain, or trapped wind all of which are a normal part of pregnancy.
Twinges, and pains can be alleviated by regular light exercise, eating smaller, frequent meals, having plenty of fibre-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables, and drinking plenty of water to help empty your bladder regularly.
If you find that you experience intense and ongoing pains, or pain accompanied by bleeding, it is important to seek medical advice from your midwife or GP to rule out anything serious.
What else could it be?If youve been heavily exercising or straining your muscles, you could be experiencing some tension from that, especially if youve focused on ab workouts. A tight stomach can also be due to other factors such as digestive issues, stress or hormonal changes, and doesnt necessarily mean youre pregnant.
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Causes Of Stomach Pain During Pregnancy
In addition to round ligament pain and cramps, other conditions may cause stomach pain during your pregnancy. Many women who are pregnant can experience:
Any of these conditions can cause sharp stomach pain. In addition, women may experience completely unrelated issues. For example, kidney stones occur as frequently in pregnant women as in women who are not.
While plenty of stomach pains are normal during pregnancy, if the pain is sharp and sudden, call a doctor. Sharp stomach pain is also one of the primary symptoms for the following serious pregnancy complications:
Ectopic pregnancy
In an ectopic pregnancy, the egg implants outside of the uterus, most often in the fallopian tubes. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable. If they are not caught in time, the eggs may cause the fallopian tubes to rupture, which can cause severe abdominal pain. A ruptured fallopian tube is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate medical treatment.
Early pregnancy loss
Also known as a miscarriage or spontaneous abortion, early pregnancy loss can occur during the first trimester. The fetus may be damaged, have an abnormal number of chromosomes, or fail to develop correctly. Early pregnancy loss affects about one in ten pregnancies.
Preeclampsia
Placental abruption
Preterm labor
- A change in vaginal discharge
- Severe pain that makes it difficult to walk, speak, or breathe
When To Call The Doctor
Don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you feel like something’s not quite right. “If you have anything that you’re concerned about, you should contact your OB-GYN or be seen,” says Rebecca Shiffman, M.D., director of Maternal Fetal Medicine at Lincoln Hospital in Bronx, New York. “That’s what we’re here forto provide answers to pregnant women and to provide whatever care they need.” Always call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms:
- Abdominal pain with or without bleeding before 12 weeks
- Bleeding or strong cramping
- More than four contractions in an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal pain
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Abdominal Pain And Miscarriage
Call your doctor if painful cramps in your lower pelvic region or lower back are accompanied by vomiting, nausea, or vaginal bleeding, these symptoms could indicate a miscarriage.
However, cramping can also occur during normal pregnancies. If you have no bleeding and you’re not experiencing any other symptoms associated with miscarriage but you still have cramps, it never hurts to mention it to your doctor at the next visit.
The specific symptoms of miscarriage vary depending on the individual. Here are some common symptoms of miscarriage:
- Abdominal pain
- Bleeding that becomes progressively heavier
- Cramping
- Fever
- Weakness and fatigue
Note that many pregnant women occasionally experience some of these symptoms and don’t go on to have a miscarriage. Nevertheless, if you experience any of these symptoms, or are otherwise concerned, contact your OB-GYN immediately.
Stretching Of The Uterus
During the first weeks of pregnancy, you likely wont notice your uterus growing or expanding. But by the 12th week, your uterus stretches and grows to about the size of a grapefruit. If youre pregnant with twins or multiples, you may feel your uterus stretching sooner.
Symptoms of your uterus stretching may include twinges, aches, or mild discomfort in your uterine or lower abdominal region. This is a normal part of pregnancy and a sign that everything is progressing normally.
Watch for spotting or painful cramping. Report these symptoms to your doctor.
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How Can You Tell Your Pregnant By Your Discharge
A number of signs and symptoms indicate early pregnancy, including: Spotting and cramping. A few days after conception, the fertilized egg attaches to the wall of your uterus, a process that can cause spotting and cramping. White, milky vaginal discharge. Breast changes. Fatigue. Nausea. Missed period.
Serious Causes Of Abdominal Pain In Pregnancy
Most causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy are nothing to worry about, but some causes of abdominal pain need medical care right away. If you suspect you may be facing one of the following problems, get medical assistance immediately.
Appendicitis. Appendicitis is an infection of your appendix, which can happen even during pregnancy and needs immediate treatment. Appendicitis causes:
- Pain on your right side
- Stomach pain near your belly button
- Nausea
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You Have An Ectopic Pregnancy
Severe stomach pain situated on the right or left side of your belly could be an ectopic pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when implantation takes place in the fallopian tubes or less commonly in the abdomen and cervix.
Its important you inform your doctor if you are pregnant with severe right or left side tummy pain. Other symptoms are dizziness, fainting and shoulder pain.
Risk factor, symptoms and treatment of ectopic pregnancy has already been explained here.