What Causes Pregnancy Pains? When Do Pregnancy Pains Start?

The female body undergoes a plethora of changes during pregnancy. The body experiences a range of aches, pains, and discomforts as it prepares to support the developing fetus. Most of these pregnancy pains are harmless, but some may require a visit to your doctor. Keep reading to better understand the various pregnancy pains and discomforts and their causes.

Types of Pregnancy Pains

Generally, pregnancy pains are a sign of the body adjusting to the changes caused by a growing fetus. To understand why you have pain, you need to determine where it hurts and what kind of pain it is. It is an undeniable fact that there are various types of pregnancy-related aches and pains.

Early Pregnancy Pains and Cramps

Early pregnancy pains are very common and occur due to the release of pregnancy hormones and the muscles of the body stretching as the uterus grows. These cramps are similar to menstrual cycle pains. If you experience sharp or severe pain during this time, it is important to consult your doctor.

Stomach Pains in Pregnancy

Many pregnant women experience stomach pain. However, these are not always a cause for concern and may result from constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, indigestion, or stretching of the round ligament (the ligament supporting the uterus).

It is important to remember that acute or sharp pains in the abdominal area during any stage of pregnancy should not be ignored. They may indicate an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, pre-eclampsia (uncontrolled high blood pressure during pregnancy), or placental abruption (premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall).

Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy

Pelvic pain in pregnancy is mostly due to the weight of the uterus, uneven weight distribution over the pelvic bone, stiffening of the symphysis pubis, or loosening of the pelvic floor muscles.
Pain in the pelvic area or lower abdomen may also result from urinary tract infections, bladder infections, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, appendicitis, and other conditions.

Leg Pain in Pregnancy

Many pregnant women report experiencing leg aches. Leg pain during pregnancy is often due to weight gain, uneven weight distribution, joint laxity, and fluid retention.

To alleviate leg pain, try stretching the calf muscles. Preventing recurrence may involve walking, sitting, and elevating your legs. A warm bath or muscle massage can also help. If leg pain is severe, consult your doctor for potential treatment options.

Groin Pain in Pregnancy

Groin pain is common during pregnancy and may result from symphysis pubis dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or fungal or bacterial infections of the vagina. It can also stem from pain in the round ligament.

Immediately contact your healthcare provider if groin pain is accompanied by bleeding, severe or acute pain, or fever.

Back Pain in Pregnancy

Back pain is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms. Lower back pain during pregnancy is caused by hormones, postural changes, weight gain, and a shift in the center of gravity.

Pregnancy hormones relax muscles and loosen joints to accommodate the growing fetus. This, combined with weight gain, can shift the center of gravity, causing uneven weight distribution and back pain.

Pregnancy Headaches

Headaches during pregnancy may be caused by stress, hormonal changes, or increased blood volume and are fairly common.

If you have a family history of hypertension, suffer from pregnancy-induced hypertension, or experience severe headaches with vision changes, contact your doctor immediately.

Braxton Hicks or False Labor Pains

Towards the end of pregnancy, the uterus contracts in preparation for birth. These contractions are called Braxton Hicks or false labor pains.

Right-Side Pain During Pregnancy

Right-sided pain during pregnancy is usually normal and results from common pregnancy-related changes. Rarely, it may indicate an ectopic pregnancy, impending miscarriage, gallstones, pre-eclampsia, or other issues. For this reason, consult your doctor if you experience any unusual pain.

Left-Side Pain During Pregnancy

Left-sided pain can occur at any stage of pregnancy. Common causes include pelvic girdle pain, indigestion due to reflux (GERD), or urinary tract infections (UTIs).
You should visit your doctor if the pain is accompanied by fever, chills, or bleeding.
Each pregnancy is unique, and pain or discomfort should never be ignored. Always consult your healthcare provider or obstetrician to discuss any symptoms or concerns during your pregnancy.

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