In this article:
What Causes Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
Take a look at the common reasons for ovarian pain in pregnancy:
Everyday Changes from Pregnancy
As your pregnancy progresses, your uterus begins to stretch and grow to accommodate your developing baby. This growth means it starts pressing on nearby areas, including your ovaries and the ligaments that hold your uterus in place. These ligaments are connected to your pelvis and uterus, and as they stretch, you may feel a dull or achy sensation.
You may also notice this sensation in your lower abdomen around the time of implantation.
Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are small, fluid-filled sacs that can form on your ovaries. They’re really common, especially if you’re in your childbearing years. Usually, they happen when an egg doesn’t fully release from its sac, and it turns into a cyst. Most of the time, they’re harmless and go away on their own.
But sometimes a cyst can rupture, which might cause mild, one-sided pain, bloating, or that uncomfortable “full” feeling even after eating a small meal. You might also notice discomfort during intercourse or when going to the bathroom.
If you’re pregnant, cysts can stick around for a while, but they often shrink or disappear as your pregnancy progresses.
Endometriosis
If you’ve ever had really heavy or painful periods, painful intercourse, or trouble getting pregnant, endometriosis could be a reason. This happens when the tissue that normally lines your uterus starts growing outside it, often causing scar tissue, swelling, or chocolate cysts around your ovaries.
Even during pregnancy, these areas can still ache as your bump grows and puts extra pressure on your body.
Fibroids
Fibroids are non-cancerous lumps that grow in or around your uterus. They’re basically clusters of cells that aren’t dangerous but can still cause problems.
They can press on your bladder, cause frequent trips to the bathroom, or create a dull ache in your lower back and ovaries, adding to discomfort during pregnancy.
Infections in the Area
Sometimes, infections can irritate your ovaries and fallopian tubes, causing mild or irregular stomach pain. It’s not very common, but if you’ve had sexually transmitted infections in the past, they could flare up during pregnancy. So it’s a good idea to let your doctor know.
Other things, like your growing womb stretching or general tummy changes, can feel similar and cause some discomfort too. These are usually less serious, but it’s always worth paying attention to how your body feels.
When Is Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy a Warning Sign?
Not all stomach pain is harmless; some can signal issues that might affect you or your baby:
- Ectopic pregnancy: This happens when a fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. Since the tube can’t support growth, you may feel sharp, one-sided stabbing pain that gets worse, along with unusual bleeding, dizziness, nausea, weakness, or even shoulder pain.
- Miscarriage (early pregnancy loss): This usually happens in the first trimester, before 20 weeks. Cramping can get intense, with bleeding or passing tissue, which can put pressure on your ovaries.
- Ovarian torsion or rupture: Rare but serious, this is when your ovary twists or a cyst bursts, cutting off blood flow. Symptoms include sudden, severe one-sided pain, fever, rapid breathing, or dizziness. A surgery like laparoscopy is usually needed to untwist or repair the ovary safely during pregnancy.
- Placental abruption: More likely later in pregnancy, this occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus wall, cutting off oxygen and nutrients to the baby. It causes sharp pain, spotting or bleeding, and a pulling or tugging feeling in your bump.
How to Ease Abdomen Pain During Pregnancy
If your doctor says everything looks okay and the pain is mild, there are some gentle ways to ease discomfort:
- Take rest: Try sitting or lying in a half-upright position.
- Warm baths or showers: Keep the water warm, not too hot, to relax muscles safely.
- Heating pads: Low heat over the sore area can help, but check with your doctor first.
- Stay hydrated and move carefully: Sip water and get up slowly from sitting or lying down.
- Light exercise: Prenatal yoga, gentle stretches, or meditation can help release tension.
- Support your bump: A pelvic support band can take weight off your belly.
When to Seek Medical Help
You know your body better than anyone, so don’t ignore anything that feels off. Head to the hospital immediately if the pain is sharp or stabbing, especially with:
- Bleeding or spotting down below
- Nausea, vomiting, or bloating that feels unusually full
- Dizziness, fainting, weakness, or rapid breathing
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Cramping that spreads or gets worse
- Pain after intercourse, bowel movements, or even light eating
Abdominal pain during pregnancy is common, but it can have many causes. The important thing is to listen to your body and share any pain or unusual symptoms with your doctor. Keeping an eye on your symptoms and speaking up early is the best way to stay safe while looking after your baby.
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FAQs on Abdomen Pain During Pregnancy: What’s Normal and When to Worry
- Can certain foods make stomach pain worse during pregnancy?
Yes, some people notice bloating or discomfort after eating very fatty, spicy, or gas-producing foods. - Can exercise cause stomach pain in pregnancy?
Yes, overdoing high-impact workouts, heavy lifting, or twisting movements can sometimes cause temporary discomfort.