Why is Stomach Pain in Pregnancy Both Side? - Is it Normal

In certain instances, abdominal pain in pregnancy may indicate potentially serious complications. In such cases, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately without any delay, as they may be life-threatening. Some of the serious causes of stomach pain in pregnancy may include the following,

Ectopic pregnancy

1. In certain rare cases, abdominal pain in pregnancy, especially in the lower abdominal region, may occur due to ectopic pregnancy. When a fertilised egg attaches and grows outside the uterus lining, it's called an ectopic pregnancy.
2. This can be very dangerous and requires emergency treatment. Usually, ectopic pregnancy happens in the fallopian tube, which connects the ovary to the uterus, but it can also occur in other areas like the ovary, abdominal cavity, or cervix. It's a serious condition that needs immediate attention.
3. Tummy pain during pregnancy, bleeding, and trouble in passing bowel movements or urinating are some signs of ectopic pregnancy. 

Preeclampsia

1. Experiencing right-side stomach pain in pregnancy may be a sign of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious problem during pregnancy, causing high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
2. It usually happens after the 20th week and can affect other organs in the body, putting both the mother and baby in danger. It is essential to get medical help if the pregnant mother has preeclampsia.

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

1. Abdominal pain in pregnancy may occur due to a urinary tract infection (UTI). During pregnancy, women are more likely to get a urinary tract infection (UTI) due to changes in their urinary tract.
2. The growing uterus can press on the bladder and block the urine flow, which can lead to a bacterial infection. UTIs are also known as bladder infections. 
3. Abdominal pain in pregnancy, accompanied by other symptoms such as a frequent urge to urinate, difficulty in passing urine, burning during urination, blood in urine, etc., may be a sign of a  urinary tract infection (UTI). 

Placental abruption

1. Sudden stomach pain in pregnancy may occur due to placental abruption. The placenta is an organ that gives the baby nutrients during pregnancy. Placental abruption happens when it detaches from the uterus too soon.
2. This can cause bleeding and problems with the baby's oxygen and nutrient supply. 
3. The main symptom is vaginal bleeding, but the patient may also have pain or tenderness. These symptoms can worsen, so it is important to call the doctor immediately, especially if stomach pain is accompanied by vaginal bleeding in the third trimester.

Preterm labour

1. Regular abdominal pain or contractions in pregnancy may indicate preterm labour.
2. Preterm labour happens when the cervix opens early due to regular contractions, occurring between week 20 and week 37 of pregnancy.
3. This can lead to premature birth, which can be risky for the baby's health.

Miscarriage

1. Severe abdominal pain in pregnancy or experiencing abdominal cramps may be a sign of miscarriage.
2. A miscarriage is a spontaneous abortion when a fetus is lost before 20 weeks of pregnancy, usually during the first three months.

Other conditions 

Apart from the causes mentioned above, several other conditions may cause stomach or abdominal pain in pregnancy. These conditions include the following, 

1. Appendicitis 
2. Kidney stones 
3. Pancreatitis 
4. Ulcer 
5. Food sensitivities 
6. Gallstones 

Treatment of stomach pain in pregnancy depends upon what is causing the pain. Treating the cause of pain will help in alleviating it. Depending upon the causes, some of the treatments that can help in relieving abdominal pain in pregnancy include the following, 

1. Eating small, frequent meals and drinking lots of water can help relieve gas and constipation, alleviating stomach pain during pregnancy. 
2. Avoiding foods that trigger stomach pain in pregnancy by causing gas and constipation can help prevent and treat it. 
3. Exercising may help improve digestion and prevent constipation or gas, thereby treating belly pain. 
4. To reduce or get rid of round ligament pain during pregnancy, take your time when getting up from a seated or lying position. If you feel like sneezing or coughing, bend and flex your hips to relieve pressure on the ligaments. Doing daily stretches can also help alleviate this type of pain.
5. Taking medications prescribed by the doctor to alleviate stomach pain during pregnancy. 

Experiencing stomach pain during pregnancy is normal in most cases. Many a time, people dismiss this tummy pain in pregnancy, thinking it is caused due to gas or constipation. But, it is important to remember that stomach pain in pregnancy due to constipation and gas will subside in some time. However, it is essential to see a doctor immediately upon experiencing any of the following symptoms, 

1. Vaginal bleeding 
2. Spotting 
3. Fever 
4. Recurring contractions 
5. Chills 
6. Painful urination 
7. Burning sensation while urinating 
8. Nausea and vomiting 
9. Feeling lightheaded

Pregnancy stomach pain is common, and in most cases, its occurrence is normal. Several factors, such as gas, constipation, bloating, Braxton hicks, etc., may cause abdominal pain in pregnancy. However, there are some serious causes of stomach pain in pregnancy, such as preterm labour, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, Preeclampsia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), etc. Hence, it is best not to ignore abdominal pain in pregnancy and get it checked by your doctor to avoid any unwanted complications. 

HexaHealth offers top-notch medical services to its patients. One of our areas of expertise is treating stomach pain in pregnant women. Our team of experienced doctors and medical professionals is well-equipped to handle any complications that may arise during pregnancy. At HexaHealth, we prioritise the health and well-being of our patients above everything else, and we offer affordable services to our patients without compromising on the quality of care.