Pain in the lower abdomen during early pregnancy: does it happen after IVF, at night? Aching, periodic, pulling sensations, as during menstruation. Causes and treatment. Why does a woman’s stomach hurt in the early stages of pregnancy? Does the stomach hurt in the early stages?

Seeing 2 coveted lines 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 arrive.

How can you determine that a new life has arisen within you? And, if the usual menstruation does not come on the right day and the lower abdomen hurts, is this a sign of pregnancy? Or could this condition be caused by other processes in the body? Let's figure it out.

Lower abdominal pain 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

1. The process of fusion of female and male eggs occurs during the period of ovulation, which, as a rule, occurs in the middle of the cycle;
2. A few days (usually from 6 to 12) after fertilization, the egg reaches the uterus, passing through the fallopian tubes;
3. In the wall of the female reproductive organ, she finds a “cozy place” and is fixed in it;
4. At the same time, the fertilized cell seems to “push apart” the epithelial cells in order to settle better;
5. The implantation process causes the first signs of pregnancy, in which the lower abdomen hurts and scanty bleeding appears;
6. Most often, “population” of the egg occurs towards the end of the cycle, when there are only a few days left before menstruation.

Therefore, aching or nagging pain in the lower abdomen means either the successful consolidation of the zygote, or the approaching menstruation (if fertilization has not occurred).

Interesting! Nagging pain (moderate) in the suprapubic area often means the fact that the female body has accepted the unborn baby. All organs and systems “launch” the necessary processes and are ready to help the full growth and development of the baby.

Pulling in the lower abdomen: how to recognize pregnancy

Determining whether pregnancy has occurred is quite difficult. Often a woman perceives such sensations as harbingers of menstruation.

If implantation was accompanied by spotting bleeding, most often the verdict is the same - the beginning of menstruation. In such cases, the expectant mother does not even suspect that a joyful event has taken place in her body.

So, what to do if nagging pain appears in the lower abdomen?

The answer is simple: nothing.

We received the long-awaited positive result - wonderful, a joyful event is expected in your home soon.

Attention! Nagging pain in the suprapubic part is characteristic of approximately 4 weeks of pregnancy. If after some time 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 from work to spend a few days on bed rest.

By the way! If your doctor complains of pain in the lower abdomen, he will most likely immediately diagnose you with uterine tone and prescribe a whole bunch of pills and hormones. Don't rush to accept them!

Read the article about uterine tone and make sure that doctors often play it safe: Uterine tone in early pregnancy >>>).

Also look at the online course posted on the website, where, in addition to recommendations on a healthy conception, you will learn how to properly live the first weeks of pregnancy and bear a healthy baby. Follow the link: I want a child!>>>

If you think that you have felt the first signs of pregnancy only 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 you have periods during pregnancy?>>>);
• Heavy vaginal discharge caused by dysbacteriosis;
• The appearance of a metallic taste in the mouth, sensitivity to odors;
• Swelling of the breasts (mammary glands), darkening of the halo;
• Mood swings, short temper, irritability.

Lower abdomen hurts: when is a doctor needed?

Unfortunately, stretching 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 an early sign of pregnancy.

In some cases, pain in the area below the navel can be caused by the following pathologies:

1. Gynecological diseases;

• Apoplexy of the ovaries. This is the term doctors call hemorrhage into ovarian tissue;
• Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy (read the article: How to determine an ectopic pregnancy?>>>).

Important! Continuous aching pain in the lower abdomen is a reason to immediately consult a specialist.

Ectopic pregnancy, cysts and ovarian apoplexy can only be eliminated surgically. Losing precious time in such cases can lead to disastrous consequences.

1. Diseases of the genitourinary system;

It cannot be said unequivocally that pain in the lower abdomen is a sign of inevitable pregnancy. In some cases, it can be triggered by cystitis - an inflammatory process in the bladder. Additional signs of this disease are:

• frequent and painful urination;
• pain in the lumbar region;
• the presence of blood in the urine.

It is known that with the help of pain, our body notifies us that not everything is in order inside. It is quite natural that in this situation a person seeks to find out what causes such sensations. But pain in the early stages of pregnancy is of particular concern, because in the 1st trimester a pregnant woman and her baby are more at risk of developing complications than ever before. If pain is felt in the abdominal area, this can completely cause panic in the expectant mother. But there is absolutely no need for excessive anxiety in such a delicate position, so the first priority in this case is to determine why the stomach hurts in the early stages of pregnancy.

Normal or pathological?

During the period from 1 to 12 weeks of bearing a child, a huge number of serious changes occur in the body of a pregnant woman.

Often, pain in the lower abdomen in the early stages of pregnancy appears precisely due to physiological reasons that do not pose a danger to either the pregnant woman or her baby.

But it should be borne in mind that only a certain nature of pain can indicate that the course of pregnancy is not in danger. They should not be sharp or harsh, but an aching stomach may well be one of the signs of a successful conception, since such pain sometimes occurs when the embryo implants into the wall of the uterus. This is called fertilized egg implantation. Sometimes the pain may be accompanied by a faint pinkish discharge – implantation bleeding.

If the expectant mother has pain in her lower abdomen, this may be due to:

• unstable functioning of the stomach and intestines. In this situation, during early pregnancy, pain spreading to the abdominal area is accompanied by specific symptoms of digestive dysfunction - difficulty or absence of bowel movements, bloating and flatulence.
• hormones produced during pregnancy. During pregnancy, the amount of progesterone increases. This substance softens ligaments and joints, promoting the gradual formation of the birth canal and preparing the woman’s body for the birth of a child. The effect of progesterone does not bypass the uterine ligaments. They become more elastic and begin to stretch, which causes characteristic pain during early pregnancy.
• growth and elevation of the uterus in the abdominal cavity. Towards the end of the 1st trimester - at 10-12 weeks - the uterus is already changing its size and begins to rise from the small pelvis into the abdominal cavity, so during this period, pain in the abdomen may be associated with stretching of the muscle tissue of the organ and its enlargement.

As already mentioned, all these manifestations of pregnancy are not considered dangerous, and their duration is usually short, but experts still recommend reporting them at your next appointment with a gynecologist. If the doctor deems it necessary, he will send the expectant mother for additional examination, but, as a rule, this is not required if no other symptoms are observed.

Pathological pain in the abdominal area in pregnant women

When a expectant mother has a stomach ache during early pregnancy, this is not always associated with physiological changes in her body. Sometimes pain during pregnancy can become a manifestation of serious gynecological pathologies that threaten the life and health of the baby and his mother. Therefore, when such sensations appear, you should always pay attention to how and where the pain syndrome manifests itself.

The most common pathological source of abdominal pain in expectant mothers is uterine hypertonicity, which in the early stages threatens miscarriage. With increased uterine tone, the lower abdomen becomes “stony” and severely hurts, and often the back in the lumbar region also ache. Sometimes the sensations are sharply intense. A common symptom of an incipient miscarriage is bleeding from the vagina.

Sometimes the source of pain is a frozen pregnancy - a serious pathology that is accompanied by signs of intoxication of the body. When a pregnancy does not develop, the temperature often rises, the body aches, nausea and vomiting appear. In addition, shortly before the pathology is detected, the woman ceases to notice the characteristic signs of a successful conception: for example, toxicosis abruptly stops and breast sensitivity disappears.

Another cause of pain is ectopic pregnancy. In women with this pathology, the fetus is in the fallopian tube. When the embryo begins to enlarge, the pregnant woman feels aching pain at the site of its attachment. Inattention to this symptom can lead to complications: the fallopian tube ruptures, and then the pain becomes sharply expressed. Pain in the early stages of pregnancy developing outside the uterine space can be closely related to spotting.

If a woman has a stomach ache during early pregnancy, the cause may be an exacerbation of some chronic diseases of the female genital organs, but this is not as dangerous as the phenomena listed above.

However, if you experience intense pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy, you should immediately seek help from a medical facility to find out whether the pain syndrome may be associated with obstetric pathologies.

It is worth paying attention to vaginal discharge and be sure to inform the gynecologist about a change in its consistency, color or smell, since such symptoms always signal the presence of certain problems in women’s health.

Are the internal organs okay?

A woman should be able to recognize abdominal pain during pregnancy; it is not always associated with pregnancy and gynecological problems. The stomach may ache due to disturbances in the functioning of internal organs and acute surgical pathologies. The most common among them are:

1. Gastritis. The stomach in pregnant women can hurt very often, especially if the inflammation of the mucous membrane has already become chronic. With exacerbation of gastritis, pain is localized mainly in the upper abdominal cavity, but can also radiate to the lower part.
2. Cholecystitis. This is an acute disease of the gallbladder, accompanied by attacks of severe pain in the right abdominal region, vomiting, and high fever.
3. Pyelonephritis, better known as inflammation of the kidneys, usually occurs less frequently in the early stages than in the later stages, but the possibility of developing this pathology cannot be ruled out, because the immunity of a pregnant woman is greatly reduced in the 1st trimester. This disease is characterized by dull aching pain in the abdomen, spreading to one or both sides and aching in the lumbar region. Blood and urine tests easily detect the inflammatory process, and swelling appears on the face and limbs of the expectant mother.
4. Cystitis is a disease that affects the mucous membrane of the bladder. Painful sensations affect the area above the pubis and are accompanied by frequent and difficult urination.
5. Appendicitis. With this pathology, a long-term attack of abdominal pain is noted. The intensity of the sensations increases gradually, the pain can radiate to the stomach, lower back, or lower abdominal cavity. Body temperature may rise and repeated vomiting may occur.

It is impossible to independently identify the true cause of intense abdominal pain in the early stages of pregnancy, since most of the pathologies described above are diagnosed only after a series of urgent studies.

What to do?

The first thing a woman should do if she is bothered by pain in the abdomen in the early stages is to go to the doctor. First, you need to visit a gynecologist to make sure that nothing threatens the course of your pregnancy.

Many pregnant women are embarrassed to once again bother their doctor “over trifles” and do not always seek help on time.

But experts strongly advise telling the gynecologist managing the pregnancy about all your sensations, especially the unpleasant ones.

1. Firstly, this will help to timely identify pathology, if any.
2. Secondly, it will allow the expectant mother to calm down and feel safe if the doctor does not find any abnormalities in the development of the child and the process of bearing him.

In addition, a woman who notices bloody vaginal discharge should urgently call an ambulance, as in this situation she is in serious danger.

If examination and examinations do not reveal pathological changes during pregnancy, then most likely the cause of abdominal pain lies in the physiological restructuring of the female body, but only on the condition that the unpleasant sensations do not intensify and appear only from time to time. There is no need to treat such pain: it will go away on its own in a few weeks. To avoid abdominal pain caused by constipation and gas, the expectant mother should take care of her diet.

If an examination by a gynecologist reveals no problems, but abdominal pain continues and begins to be accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms, you should see a therapist as soon as possible to determine the true cause of such sensations. If there are any diseases of the internal organs of a pregnant woman, proper care and safe, effective treatment are required.

If abdominal pain is severe, this may be a sign of dangerous surgical pathologies, for example, appendicitis, so you should not hesitate in such a situation. Appendicitis in pregnant women can be successfully treated surgically if detected in a timely manner.

Any unpleasant sensations during pregnancy should be strictly controlled by the doctor monitoring the pregnancy, so the expectant mother should definitely inform her gynecologist about painful sensations in the abdomen, especially if they bother her in the early stages.

Feelings in the abdomen in early pregnancy can be an important clue for a woman. Based on some signs, one can suspect the birth of a new life even before the delay. To do this, you need to constantly listen to yourself. The best time to observe the “behavior” of the abdomen is morning and evening. During the day, the expectant mother is busy with work, household chores and the daily bustle. At this pace, it will be very difficult to notice minor changes.

The first signs of pregnancy after conception

A planning woman can feel whether she is pregnant or not after trying to conceive. You can suspect a new situation based on unusual signs. After conception, the nature of the discharge may change. Characteristic changes may appear if the girl led him. At the same time, the expectant mother notes what sensations she is experiencing now. All this can be a hint for the most impatient.

However, pregnancy can be reliably determined in the early stages only through a blood test (). Laboratory analysis not only gives an answer to an exciting question, but also helps to approximately calculate when fertilization occurred.

Take a short walk in a couple of minutes and get the answer whether you are pregnant or not.

The sensations in the abdomen in the early stages of pregnancy before the delay practically do not change. A woman may notice minor nagging pain and tingling. However, this symptom may also indicate impending menstruation. The first signs of a new position include minor bleeding. It occurs when a fertilized egg is implanted. This symptom occurs approximately 3-7 days after conception.

Progesterone, which affects the uterus and intestines, is to blame for stomach pain after conception. This may be a sign of imminent menstruation, or perhaps the fertilization of the egg has taken place. Weakness and drowsiness, increased body temperature and signs of ARVI are noted by every third pregnant woman. All these symptoms may be an indirect indication that maternity leave is coming soon.

Feelings in the abdomen during ovulation and conception

Depending on the threshold of sensitivity, sensations before ovulation and during fertilization in women may be different. A nagging pain in the lower abdomen in the middle of the cycle indicates that the egg will soon be released. The discomfort lasts for 1-2 days and is a pressing pain.

A woman has the feeling that there is something large in one side of her abdomen. This is how the growth of the dominant follicle manifests itself. During the day before ovulation, it reaches its maximum size. It happens that two follicles grow in one ovary at once. In such a situation, the bursting sensations are more vivid. The release of the egg may be accompanied by slight pain. However, not every woman can feel ovulation; many experience absolutely nothing unusual in the middle of the cycle.

During fertilization, even the most sensitive women cannot experience any sensations. The sizes of the egg and sperm are so small that it is impossible to feel their fusion.

Feelings in the abdomen in early pregnancy can be very different. Often they turn out to be far-fetched, because the woman is trying to look for symptoms of pregnancy. The fact that conception has occurred (or rather,) may be indicated by a slight stabbing pain in the uterus. Attachment of the egg is accompanied by damage to the mucosa. The embryo “digs” a hole for itself in the endometrial layer. This also causes damage to small blood vessels and the appearance of brown discharge (but this does not always happen).

When conception occurs and a woman has a stomach ache during sexual intercourse, this may indicate an inflammatory process in the pelvis or other diseases. Regularly recurring discomfort should alert you and become a reason to contact a gynecologist. After conception, the lower abdomen may be slightly tight and painful, as the uterus becomes toned. This condition is caused by various factors:

• embryo implantation;
• intestinal problems;
• progesterone deficiency;

Acute pain after conception, localized in the lower abdomen, should not be normal. If such concern arises even before the onset of menstruation, then you need to consult a doctor. Perhaps we are talking about a symptom of a pathological process. All women looking for signs of pregnancy should know that during conception the stomach cannot hurt much. Minor discomfort, pulling or pressing sensations, tingling do not cause much concern and go away on their own within a few days. Any acute, unbearable pain that disrupts the usual rhythm of life is a reason for examination.

How does the stomach change after conception?

Some women recognize their new position by looking at their belly. After conception, a barely noticeable dark stripe appears in the area between the pubis and the navel. Such pigmentation does occur during pregnancy, but usually at a later stage, after a delay. In addition, the formation of a darkened area cannot be a reliable sign of a new position; it is only indirect evidence.

After conception, the uterus becomes larger. If we compare it with the beginning of the menstrual cycle and the size after menstruation, the reproductive organ grows by about one and a half times. Over time, growth will continue. The uterus after conception is comparable in size to a fist. To the touch (during a gynecological examination) she is tense. The neck remains soft and acquires a bluish tint. The change in color of the mucous membrane is associated with increased blood circulation in the pelvic cavity.

The belly does not change in size during early pregnancy. However, some women feel that it is increasing. This is because there may be some slight swelling of the tissue. It occurs due to hormonal changes. For the same reason, during pregnancy, stool may change before the delay.

Active synthesis of progesterone is necessary to maintain adequate uterine tone. This hormone is designed to relax the reproductive organ to prevent rejection of the fertilized egg. It also has a relaxing effect on the intestines. As a result, peristalsis is inhibited. Fecal retention causes fermentation, which increases flatulence. The expectant mother may notice new sensations: gurgling, rumbling, increased flatulence (in simple terms, gas). During this period, women have the feeling that they do not fit into everyday clothes due to the increased growth of the abdomen. In fact, discomfort is not associated with rapid enlargement of the uterus, but is simply a consequence of intestinal rebellion.

Symptoms that can be attributed to indirect signs of pregnancy:

• pulling in the lower abdomen;
• a barely noticeable pigment band is formed in the cross section;
• bloating occurs, accompanied by flatulence;
• the stomach swells and does not fit into the usual clothes;
• the uterus becomes tense and gradually increases in size;
• the cervix maintains its calm (remains soft and relaxed).

Why does your stomach hurt in early pregnancy?

Even before the delay, a woman may notice that strange processes are happening in her stomach. The expectant mother can associate them with the new position and find the full symptoms of the conception that has taken place. After a delay, her suspicions will be confirmed by a home test, blood test or ultrasound scan.

Both before and after pregnancy is definitely established, a woman may have a stomach ache. The nature of the unpleasant sensations can be pulling, pressing, bursting, sharp, cutting. Manifestations occur temporarily (depending on the influence of external factors) or are constantly present.

If your stomach feels tight after conception, then for your own peace of mind you need to consult a gynecologist. Having ruled out possible problems and determined that the pregnancy is intrauterine, the patient will receive a list of approved medications to relieve discomfort. Every second expectant mother who seeks medical help due to abdominal pain in the early stages is diagnosed with pathology. The sooner it is eliminated, the greater the chance of a favorable prognosis.

Aching pain, as during menstruation

Nagging pain in the lower abdomen after conception indicates increased uterine tone. Temporary sensations not accompanied by bleeding may occur due to physical activity, fatigue, or nervous tension. Almost all expectant mothers encounter such manifestations.

It’s worse when your stomach hurts constantly after conception. Additionally, the patient complains of lower back pain and bleeding. These symptoms indicate hypertonicity and require mandatory ultrasound monitoring. During the scan, the sonologist discovers a hematoma formed between the fertilized egg and the uterine wall. When it opens, it comes out in the form of brown bloody discharge. The appearance of scarlet blood is an even more dangerous sign.

Pulling in the lower abdomen due to hypertonicity may be due to insufficient synthesis of progesterone. This condition can be determined using a blood test to determine the level of this hormone. If pain occurs, as during menstruation, the patient is prescribed maintenance therapy. Treatment involves eliminating the cause of hypertension and replenishing the deficiency of the corpus luteum hormone. Such abdominal pain should not be taken as a sign of pregnancy. A disturbing symptom is a dangerous condition and can lead to termination of pregnancy.

Sharp pain in the groin area

Cramping abdominal pain can be a symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. This condition is dangerous for a woman’s life, so it cannot be delayed. An ectopic pregnancy is characterized by the attachment of an embryo in an unintended place. Most of these cases are found in the area of ​​the fallopian tubes. Less commonly, the fertilized egg is attached to the ovary or peritoneum.

It is necessary to understand that it will not be possible to maintain such a pregnancy. The growth of the fertilized egg will continue for up to 5-8 weeks, after which it will stop. In this case, a fallopian tube or ovary may rupture, which can lead to complete removal of the reproductive organs and even death. If severe pain appears in one or the other side of the abdomen, you should consult a gynecologist to rule out a pathological condition.

Acute abdominal pain can be a sign of inflammation of the appendix. Statistics show that about 10% of expectant mothers experience this condition. The pathology is accompanied by fever, nausea, and stool disturbances. To rule it out, you need to consult a surgeon and take a blood and urine test.

Feeling of pressure and fullness in the perineum

The stomach may hurt after conception due to sprained ligaments. The rapid growth of the uterus forces the pelvic floor muscles to work. The ligaments holding the reproductive organ are stretched, causing lumbago and a feeling of pressure in the perineum. This often happens during advanced stages of pregnancy, when the uterus extends beyond the pelvis.

Pressure and bloating can be caused by bowel movements. As you know, progesterone affects the functioning of the digestive tract. Consuming a large number of incompatible foods (which is not uncommon in the early stages) causes a bursting feeling in the stomach.

It is not always possible to differentiate your sensations and distinguish physiological from pathological discomfort on your own. To dispel doubts and get rid of worries, you need to consult a gynecologist.

It's no secret that the time when a woman is expecting a child is the most wonderful time in her life. During this period, the body of the fair sex undergoes enormous changes. That is why the sensations in the stomach in the early stages can be completely different. Some ladies have no signs of conception at all and no complaints about a special condition.

Conception and pregnancy

To begin with, it is worth saying how conception occurs. Around the middle of the female cycle, a woman releases a cell from the follicle. After this, the egg, born and ready for fertilization, begins to move along the fallopian tubes towards the reproductive organ. This is where she can meet the sperm. After the fusion of these two components, continuous cell division begins.

When the new organism reaches the uterine muscle, cells invade its inner layer. From this moment, conception can be considered successful.

How is the pregnancy period divided?

There are different stages of pregnancy. There are three of them in total. These time periods are called trimesters and last on average from 8 to 12 weeks.

At each stage of pregnancy, the doctor prescribes appropriate tests for the woman. They may include an ultrasound examination, taking a smear from the vagina, and a blood test for possible fetal pathologies. Also in the third trimester, the gynecologist examines the pregnancy using a CTG machine. During the procedure, the baby's heartbeat is measured.

The third period of gestation ends with childbirth. After this, the fetus becomes human and can already breathe, hear and see on its own, but it still needs its mother.

Feelings in the abdomen in early pregnancy

Many women experience new sensations during this period. To begin with, it is worth saying which stages of pregnancy are early and which are late. Short term pregnancy is diagnosed before 8 weeks, which is approximately the first two months from the date of the last menstruation. It is during this period of time that the expectant mother may notice new sensations in her stomach. A woman’s well-being can change greatly. Let's consider the most common sensations that a woman experiences.

During ovulation

During this period of time, a representative of the fair sex may say that she feels bursting or pressing pain on the left or right. This is explained by the growth of the follicle and, of course, pregnancy has not yet occurred at this time, but if the result is positive, this time period will be included in the gestation period of the child.

Directly during the rupture of the follicle, the lady may notice a sharp cutting pain on one side. After this, some women note the appearance of bloody discharge from the genital tract.

During the fertilization period

Some representatives of the fair sex claim that sensations in the stomach in the early stages of pregnancy began precisely from the moment the egg was fertilized. Most likely, this is simply self-hypnosis, since no one can say for sure, up to a fraction of a second, when exactly the fusion of two cells occurred.

Usually this process is not accompanied by any special feelings. Human cells are so small that their initial division does not produce any symptoms or signs.

Implantation period

After the male cell meets the female cell, the pregnancy begins to develop and progress day by day. Every day, colossal changes and transformations occur with a new organism.

When it reaches the reproductive organ, it penetrates the endometrium and remains in its place for all subsequent periods of its development. At this moment, a woman may feel that something is happening in her body. Also, this process can go completely unnoticed.

Statistics say that especially those women who planned conception and were waiting for it experience special sensations during this period. Such representatives of the fair sex say that they feel slight nagging pain. Other women admit that they felt similar to the period of ovulation, at this moment a woman may notice slight spotting from the vagina. They are explained by the fact that during the implantation of cells into the wall of the uterus, damage occurs to the smallest blood vessels and capillaries.

Lower pain during pregnancy

Many women around the world complain of various pain sensations during pregnancy. Most of them occur in the early stages. As the embryo grows day by day, the uterus stretches. This is precisely one of the reasons for such complaints. However, it is necessary to know all the reasons why the stomach feels tight during pregnancy (early stages). Similar complaints may also occur in the middle of fetal development or before birth.

Threat of interruption of embryo development

It's no secret that most miscarriages and embryo failures occur in the early stages. This is due to the fact that so-called natural selection occurs during this time period. If the fetus has any abnormalities in genetics or receives the wrong set of chromosomes, then it simply stops its development.

This condition may be accompanied by unpleasant painful sensations that jeopardize pregnancy. The back during this period can also remind itself. During contraction of the reproductive organ, a woman feels heaviness in the lower back.

Deficiency or excess of certain hormones

The pregnancy (hormones) table indicates how much of a particular substance should be contained in a woman’s blood during different periods of gestation. With some deviations from the norm, a representative of the fair sex may experience pain in the lower abdomen and back.

In most cases, expectant mothers face a lack of progesterone. This hormone is produced by the corpus luteum, which is formed in the ovary after the rupture of the follicle. The secreted substance maintains the normal tone of the reproductive organ and prevents it from contracting and rejecting the fertilized egg. With a small amount of this hormone, involuntary contraction of the uterine muscle and detachment of the fertilized egg occurs.

If measures are not taken in time and the necessary treatment is not carried out, spontaneous termination of pregnancy may occur. That is why, when such symptoms appear, it is necessary to undergo the necessary tests and find out the content of certain hormones in the blood of the expectant mother.

The pregnancy and hormone content table will tell you how much of the substance should be in a woman’s blood during a certain period of pregnancy.

Growth of the reproductive organ

Sometimes pain in the lower abdominal cavity can be caused by the growth of the uterus. It is worth saying that during fertilization she is quite small. Pregnancy causes this organ to grow and stretch, changing its usual position.

With the enlargement of the uterine muscle, neighboring organs are displaced: the ovaries, fallopian tubes and intestines. At later stages, a shift occurs in some other structures of the human body: kidneys, stomach, liver and spleen.

This process may be accompanied by nagging pain. It is worth noting that this condition is not a pathology and does not require any treatment.

Also, women who have undergone inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs or any surgical interventions may suffer from pain in the lower abdomen. In most cases, such pathologies do not go away without leaving a trace and cause the formation of an adhesive process. As the uterus grows, the thin films stretch and tear. This leads to quite strong and sharp pain. They can be pulling, pressing or cutting. In this case, the woman is not prescribed any treatment other than rest and taking sedatives.

Ectopic pregnancy

In the early stages (about 4 weeks), it is almost impossible to diagnose pregnancy using ultrasound. However, during this period, a woman may complain of nagging pain on one or the other side of the abdomen. In some cases, this may indicate the development of an ectopic pregnancy. If such a pathology is detected, it must be eliminated as soon as possible, since the consequences can be irreparable and lead to death.

How to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy in the early stages? Quite often, a blood test to determine the hormone hCG helps to find out about this pathology. Also, if a woman does not have severe pain, the doctor may choose a wait-and-see approach. If the sensations increase and the woman feels worse, she undergoes an emergency operation, during which the pathological pregnancy is removed, trying to preserve all the reproductive organs. An ectopic pregnancy can develop in the ovary, fallopian tubes, or abdomen.

Pathological processes

In some cases, unpleasant painful sensations in the lower abdomen during pregnancy can be a symptom of various pathologies that have nothing to do with the woman being in an interesting position.

Intestinal problems

While carrying a baby, a woman relaxes all the abdominal muscles. This is necessary in order to avoid spontaneous abortion. Since the intestine is also a muscle, its peristalsis can be significantly reduced. This leads to constipation and gas accumulation. This condition causes a woman not only discomfort, but also nagging pain in the lower abdomen.

This condition can be easily corrected. The woman is prescribed a suitable diet and a mild laxative, the use of which is allowed during pregnancy.

Inflammatory diseases

While carrying a child, the fair sex's immunity decreases. This happens mainly in the very early stages. Nature did this so that the woman’s body does not perceive the fetus as a foreign body and does not reject it.

During this period, the woman may feel nagging pain in the lower abdomen, which is a symptom of the development of inflammation of the bladder, ovaries or uterus. This pathology must be cured, as it can have a negative impact on the growth and development of the embryo.

Pathology requiring surgical intervention

Sometimes during pregnancy a woman may develop diseases that require surgery. They can also give symptoms such as nagging or aching pain in the back and lower abdominal segment.

It may encounter the formation of a large cyst or torsion of its pedicle. A woman can also be affected by appendicitis or peritonitis. All these pathologies are quite rare, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, but they are not excluded.

If a decision is made to undergo surgery, the most gentle method is chosen. In most cases, the Doctor performs the operation as carefully as possible, trying not to affect the reproductive organ and maintaining the pregnancy.

Pain in late pregnancy

If you are quite close to your due date, then nagging pain in the lower abdomen may indicate that you will soon become a mother. If the fetus is already full term, then there is no reason to worry, but it is worth calling your doctor and letting him know how you are feeling.

If the baby is not yet full-term, then you must urgently call an ambulance and go to the hospital. Especially if the pain intensifies and becomes cramping in nature. You may need to be hospitalized for some time until you feel better. All this is necessary in order to maintain pregnancy and carry the baby to term.

Conclusion

If you are in an interesting position and experience pain in the lower abdomen, then you need to visit a specialist managing your pregnancy as soon as possible. It may be that your pregnancy and your health are at risk. It may also become clear that your pain is physiological and does not pose any threat to you and your unborn baby.

Take special care of your health during pregnancy. Visit a specialist regularly and discuss with him all the issues that concern you. Feel free to ask the doctor about anything that interests you. Be healthy and have an easy birth!

Pregnancy is an exciting period for every woman. With the acquisition of a new status, representatives of the fairer sex begin to have a different attitude towards their well-being. Expectant mothers listen to every sensation and pay attention to any ailment. It often happens that the intestines hurt during pregnancy. This sensation is a symptom, a sign, and not an independent pathology. Therefore, to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe therapy, you need to see a doctor and undergo an examination. Let's look at the main pathologies that cause stomach (intestinal) pain during pregnancy and find out what to do in this or that case.

Digestive disorders in the first trimester

Often in the early stages women have stomach and intestinal pain. During pregnancy, this phenomenon is considered normal. After all, it is at this moment that a woman’s nutrition radically changes. Due to toxicosis, expectant mothers strive to eat something unusual. More salty foods and spices appear in the diet. Women have a sweet tooth: they can spend hours eating cakes and chocolate.

This diet certainly affects digestion. The lack of fiber and indigestible fibers inhibits intestinal motility. In addition, progesterone is actively produced at this time. It relaxes muscles, including the intestines. Expectant mothers begin to experience constipation, fermentation increases and the amount of gas increases. Often, bloating is noticeable to the naked eye.

This problem can only be treated by correcting the diet. Women should give preference to vegetables and fruits and eat more greens. Distribute your daily protein and fat intake correctly. Avoid empty carbohydrates. If you have a tendency to constipation, then it is permissible to use mild laxatives, for example Duphalac.

Infectious pathology

If your intestines hurt during pregnancy and the discomfort is accompanied by diarrhea and fever, then it is probably a viral or bacterial infection. This condition is very dangerous for expectant mothers. Especially if the disease occurs in the first trimester. Therefore, if the described symptoms appear, you should go to the hospital as soon as possible.

What to do if your intestines hurt? During pregnancy, the features of treatment of infectious diarrhea and abdominal pain are as follows. The woman must be prescribed plenty of fluids. If vomiting is also present, which often happens with an intestinal infection, then it is necessary to carry out rehydration therapy (for example, with the drug "Regidron" or saline solution). For treatment, sorbents are prescribed: “Polysorb”, “Enterosgel”, activated carbon. Bacterial infection requires the use of antimicrobial compounds: Enterofuril, Stopdiar. In addition, you need to follow a diet.

Neoplasms and tumors

Throughout the entire period of gestation, hormonal changes occur. Often this process provokes the growth of existing tumors. If a woman has tumors or polyps in her intestines, they may increase in size. At the same time, the expectant mother notes that her intestines hurt.

During pregnancy, doctors try not to treat such diseases. Since any intervention in the area of ​​the anus and intestines can provoke uterine tone and the threat of miscarriage. To get advice in this situation, you should definitely consult a doctor.

Hemorrhoids and related pathologies

Why does a woman have pain in her intestines (lower abdomen) during pregnancy? The cause of this ailment is often hemorrhoids. More often it appears during advanced pregnancy. The uterus compresses the vessels and veins, resulting in blood stagnation. Hemorrhoids may be accompanied by anal fissures, bleeding during bowel movements, and constipation.

The problem is quite delicate, so many women try to get rid of it on their own and do not consult a doctor. This only makes the situation worse. Pathology can be corrected in the early stages using conservative methods. Expectant mothers are prescribed suppositories and creams (Relief, Hepatrombin), and tablets are prescribed (Detralex, Antistax). These drugs can be taken in the second half of pregnancy, but only as prescribed by a doctor.

Inflammatory process

If the intestines hurt during pregnancy, but there are no other additional symptoms, then this may be an inflammatory process. This pathology ranks second among all diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. It is defined by the term colitis or enterocolitis. A problem can arise for many reasons: decreased immunity, disruption of intestinal microflora, dietary errors, and so on.

Inflammation of the intestines should be treated with medications approved during pregnancy. First you need to determine the cause of the malaise. If the problem is dysbacteriosis, then take complex probiotics (Linex, Acipol, Bifiform). When it comes to reduced immunity, medications based on interferon (Anaferon, Ergoferon) are prescribed. If the duration of pregnancy allows, the woman may be prescribed an antibiotic. However, these drugs must be taken strictly in a certain dose and as prescribed by a doctor.

The inflammatory process can be especially dangerous in the appendix area. This condition occurs quite rarely in pregnant women. Statistics show that only one expectant mother in a hundred with abdominal pain needs to have her appendix removed.

Summarize

Despite the fact that women often experience intestinal pain during pregnancy, you should not turn a blind eye to this symptom. If you feel unwell for more than two days, you should see a doctor. You should also consult a doctor if additional symptoms appear: vomiting, diarrhea, high fever. Remember that during pregnancy it is unacceptable to take any medications on your own. All appointments must be made by a specialist. Feel good to you!

During pregnancy, women undergo a process of hormonal changes. In this regard, mood swings and pain of various origins may be observed. Each type of illness is caused by different reasons. Pain during pregnancy is often a warning sign, and if it occurs, you should consult a doctor. Your doctor will be able to suggest treatment methods to eliminate the causes of these unpleasant sensations without harm to your unborn baby.

Most often, women may experience headaches, toothaches and pain in the lower abdomen. Each of them must be subject to separate diagnostics, since the causes are all different.

The causes of headaches during pregnancy can be, first of all, stress and lack of sleep. To treat them, you do not need to use any medications; you just need to stick to a clear daily routine and walk more in the fresh air. Another, also quite common reason, is migraines. Their appearance is provoked by pressure changes inside the skull. Most often they are accompanied by nausea and occur in the first trimester of pregnancy, when taking any medications is contraindicated. If you experience this type of headache, you should avoid eating foods such as nuts, grapes and sharp cheeses. If possible, it is recommended to go to bed or at least just relax. Changes in blood pressure can also cause headaches during pregnancy. In this case, drugs may be prescribed to stabilize it. Moreover, the harm to the unborn baby from taking these medications should be much less than the expected benefit to the mother. A disease such as osteochondrosis can also cause headaches. To eliminate this type of ailment, it is recommended to massage the collar area.

In any case, you should consult a doctor if any type of pain occurs. This will speed up the diagnosis and, if necessary, help provide timely treatment.

Toothaches during pregnancy are also quite common. In most cases, the causes of pain occur due to a lack of calcium in the body of the expectant mother. If this microelement is present in insufficient quantities, then during the formation of the baby’s skeleton, the fetus takes reserves from the mother’s bones. As a result, diseases such as pulpitis, periodontitis and caries appear. Also, due to changes in hormonal levels, there is a deterioration in blood circulation in the skin and mucous membranes. This is the cause of periodontitis, inflammation of the gums. A weakened immune system reduces the protective properties of saliva.

What pains during pregnancy can also bother the expectant mother? These are unpleasant sensations in the abdominal area. Almost everyone experiences similar pains during pregnancy. But this is not always a cause for concern. A reaction is possible simply to muscle stretching, as the stomach is growing rapidly. But in any case, you should not postpone a visit to your doctor, because this can also be a symptom of serious illnesses. Pain in the lower abdomen can signal diseases of the digestive system and be a symptom of various infectious diseases of the urinary system. In this case, the expectant mother will be prescribed treatment that is compatible with her situation, which will help to avoid risk to the fetus or reduce it to a minimum.

But this is not the entire list of pain that can disturb a pregnant woman. In any case, you should seek help from professionals and not self-medicate. After all, inside you is the most precious, small miracle that requires your care.

Unfortunately, 10-15% of women face such an unpleasant diagnosis as ectopic pregnancy. The name speaks for itself. In the description we will consider many questions: what it is, symptoms, causes, how ectopic pregnancy hurts and much more.

Ectopic pregnancy is the attachment of the fertilized egg not to the walls of the uterus. The fertilized egg may remain in the ovary, attach to the cervix, or enter the abdominal cavity. The most common cases include attachment of the fertilized egg to the wall of the fallopian tube. Pregnancy is characterized by atypical localization, which threatens the woman’s health and requires emergency surgical intervention.

Description

In a normal pregnancy, the egg implants in the fundus or body of the uterus. The difference between an atypical pregnancy is that the egg is not in the uterus. It has a different localization: in the fallopian tubes, ovary, abdominal cavity. Such a pregnancy cannot develop; it is life-threatening and is a medical indication for its termination. It has been noted that pain during ectopic pregnancy in the early stages is very severe.

The woman herself cannot suspect the pathology. After all, it is clinically no different from a normal pregnancy. Many people ask: “Do the breasts hurt during an ectopic pregnancy? Is there toxicosis? Is there sleepiness?

Yes, sure! Everything is the same here: menstruation is delayed, the mammary glands become enlarged, the milky passages are outlined, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and drooling are possible. An alarming complication of such a pregnancy may be bleeding and loss of consciousness, and the woman should immediately consult a doctor.

Causes

The cause of this pathology is an obstruction in the path of a fertilized egg from the ovary to the uterus. This obstacle is associated with a decrease in the patency of the fallopian tubes (inflammation after abortion, endometriosis, miscarriage, use of an intrauterine device as a means of contraception), anomalies of their development, as well as the ovaries or uterus, oncological changes in the internal genital organs, hormonal disorders or difficult childbirth, after which adhesions form in the tissues.

In addition, women of the older age category (after 35 years) can also be considered at risk, since by this age a woman has a fairly “rich” set of both general somatic and gynecological diseases and disorders, changes in hormonal status and often the presence of abortions in stories.

How to recognize?

If you have an ectopic pregnancy, your breasts hurt, the test strips will show a positive result. Pathology is difficult to suspect. However, the hCG level will constantly fluctuate and deviate from the normal level corresponding to a certain period.

This interesting condition is usually accompanied by unilateral, unpleasant pain in the lower abdomen. The unpleasant condition may intensify with changes in the position of the body. Pain during an ectopic pregnancy can be similar to menstrual pain or cramping.

But the only reliable method for determining the place of attachment of the future fetus is ultrasound diagnostics through transvaginal access.

With timely diagnosis and treatment methods, ectopic pregnancy does not cause a significant impact on the body. And with qualified follow-up therapy, a woman can resume trying to become a mother in just 3-6 months after the termination of such a pregnancy.

The arrest of the fertilized egg in the fallopian tube is dangerous because its tissues are not elastic enough and cannot stretch simultaneously with the embryo increasing in size. The tube ruptures, blood along with tissues and the fertilized egg enters the abdominal cavity, which can lead to peritonitis. In addition, rupture of any organ will be accompanied by acute pain during an ectopic pregnancy and heavy bleeding. This puts the woman’s life at risk and requires immediate hospitalization in the intensive care unit under constant medical supervision.

Removal of an ectopic pregnancy is usually performed by laparotomy. Through a small incision in the abdomen, the surgeon gains access to the fertilized egg. Moreover, all instruments have sensors, and any manipulation by a specialist is displayed on the monitor. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, the doctor can remove only the fertilized egg, the egg with part of the damaged tissue, or the entire uterine tube. Therefore, the sooner a woman consults a doctor, the less harm will be caused to her health. Pain after an ectopic pregnancy will remain in a woman’s memory for a long time.

However, the treatment does not end there. It is necessary to undergo a course of restorative therapy, as well as eliminate possible causes of recurrent ectopic pregnancy. It is necessary to treat infections, inflammatory processes, and restore hormonal imbalance.

With timely diagnosis and termination, as well as competent subsequent treatment and rehabilitation, a woman will be able to forget the pain of an ectopic pregnancy in the early stages. She will be able to recover and give birth to a healthy baby.

Risk factors

There are cases in which the fertilized egg attaches outside the uterus due to some malfunction of the tubal canal. This is a complication and is called an ectopic pregnancy. Unfortunately, such a fetus has no chance of survival. This phenomenon is very dangerous for a woman’s health, as it is fraught with bleeding and, if ignored, can cost her life.

Under normal conditions, the fertilized egg descends into the uterus and attaches to its wall. But with an ectopic pregnancy, everything happens the other way around, it moves away from it and attaches either to the tube, or to the ovary, or even to the abdominal cavity. The lack of a favorable environment for the development of the unborn baby provokes the growth of the fetus into the organ to which it is attached. As a result, internal bleeding occurs.

Such a pregnancy is divided into ovarian, tubal or abdominal. It all depends on the place of attachment of the embryo. Of course, such situations are extremely rare and occur in 1-2 cases out of 100.

There are some risk factors:

• if there was an operation in the abdominal area;
• hormonal imbalance;
• due to diseases of the female reproductive organs;
• benign or malignant tumor of the reproductive organs.

It begins in the same way as usual, and the first weeks proceed in a similar way. Suspicious symptoms begin to appear from 3 to 9 weeks. What are the pains during an ectopic pregnancy? These include the following symptoms.

• Pain syndrome with aching, stabbing pain during ectopic pregnancy. It occurs in the lower abdomen, in the area where the embryo is attached. Pain may be present during bowel movements.
• There is bleeding of the vessels of the organ where the fertilized egg is located, and there may also be uterine bleeding. Basically reminiscent of menstruation, but not as heavy.

Degrees

Doctors divide it into several degrees. The first is when the embryo, during its growth, digs into the walls of the tube and tears it. The second degree is divided into two types.

The first is when an ectopic pregnancy, where the pain is usually severe, aborts on its own, and the egg is released into the abdominal area. Accompanied by bleeding and pain. The uterus is enlarged, but does not coincide with the due date. Such a pregnancy is usually accompanied by unilateral pain in the lower abdomen. Discomfort may increase with changes in body position. Pain during an ectopic pregnancy resembles contractions or menstrual cramps. Bloody or spotting discharge appears.

The second is a rupture of the fallopian tube. It happens at 7-10 weeks. In this case, it is important to seek help immediately! This is life threatening.

A woman is required to undergo a rehabilitation course, which is aimed at restoring reproductive function after such an unsuccessful pregnancy. On average, the rehabilitation course lasts six months, after which a woman can start planning a child.

What causes this pregnancy?

The fertilized egg does not reach the uterus, resulting in its incorrect location and pathological development. Maturation of the egg can occur in the fallopian tube, ovary or abdominal cavity. The reason is:

• Abortion.
• Underdevelopment or abnormal development of the reproductive system.
• Lack or excess of hormones.
• Blockage of the fallopian tubes or disruption of their innervation.
• Diseases of the endocrine system.
• Contraception.

Symptoms

At the very beginning, an ectopic pregnancy is difficult to distinguish from a normal one. A woman has identical symptoms: increased appetite - she can eat day or night, toxicosis - nausea can occur immediately or a little later, weakness, drowsiness, swelling of the mammary glands, lack of menstruation. Only after 3-6 weeks do symptoms begin to appear, indicating that the woman has a pregnancy pathology.

• Pain during ectopic pregnancy. A terrible state when everything aches and there is no strength to endure it all. What are the pains during an ectopic pregnancy? Cramping pain in the abdominal area. They are usually aching and cramping in nature. Urination becomes painful, sometimes mixed with blood.
• Bleeding. Bleeding during an ectopic pregnancy occurs in the abdominal cavity. Uterine bleeding is also possible. The reason for this is a sharp decrease in progesterone levels. It is the hormone progesterone in women that stimulates the growth of the uterus. It blocks uterine contractions and, during pregnancy, stops the menstrual cycle.
• State of shock. A pregnant woman's blood pressure drops. A drop in blood pressure is also associated with a decrease in levels of the hormone progesterone. The skin is of an unhealthy color, heavy bleeding begins, and as a result, loss of consciousness. Pain in the lower abdomen also occurs during an ectopic pregnancy.

How to diagnose?

A positive pregnancy test and the occurrence of at least one of the familiar symptoms should prompt a woman to go to the doctor. Research procedures will be prescribed to make a diagnosis.

An ultrasound performed transvaginally will be more effective. The doctor will determine the concentration of human chronic gonadotropin. If the hCG level is 1500, but during diagnostic examinations the fertilized egg is not detected, then a diagnosis is made - pregnancy outside the uterus.

Treatment

The only way to solve the problem is surgery. Laparoscopy is common. During the operation, the fertilized egg attached outside the uterus is removed. In case of difficulties, plastic surgery is used. Plastic surgery will restore the integrity of the fallopian tube. The fallopian tubes are significant for pregnancy.

Ectopic pregnancy diagnosed in the early stages is treated with chemotherapy. Gradual resorption of the ovum is performed with methotrexate. Removing the fallopian tube is dangerous. This increases the likelihood of infertility or recurrent ectopic pregnancy.

What are the dangers of an ectopic pregnancy?

As mentioned above, the fertilized egg enters the fallopian tube and begins to develop there. The problem is that the tube is not suitable for fetal growth, since its wall does not have sufficient elasticity and extensibility, and also has a relatively small diameter.

Accordingly, having reached a certain point (4-6th week of pregnancy), the chorionic villi grow into the wall of the tube, after which it ruptures and an outpouring of blood occurs into the abdominal cavity (hemoperitoneum with the possible further development of peritonitis). Clinically, this is manifested by sharp “dagger” pain in the lower abdomen, pallor, dizziness, cold sticky sweat, and loss of consciousness. When a large vessel ruptures, bleeding can be life-threatening, requiring immediate attention.

In some cases, the wall of the fertilized egg ruptures, after which it is expelled into the abdominal cavity. The clinical picture is similar to that of a pipe rupture, but may be less pronounced or take longer to develop over time.

Conclusion

After a certain period of time, the symptoms of pain from an ectopic pregnancy subside, and the woman thinks that everything is fine, but this is false prosperity. After all, the blood continues to pour into the abdominal cavity. That is why such a condition cannot be left without due attention. The woman must be urgently hospitalized and operated on. It should also be noted that the likelihood of becoming pregnant naturally after such a pathology is reduced, and the risk of a repeat scenario increases.