Identifying stomach pain during pregnancy

Stomach pain during pregnancy is not unusual. And on their own, they are not normally anything to worry about, but occasionally, abdominal pain or stomach cramps can be a sign of something serious, especially if you’re experiencing other symptoms at the same time.

Common causes of stomach pain

• Indigestion or heartburn – stomach pain sometimes with nausea

• Ligaments around your uterus stretching – this can cause mild stomach cramps

• Feeling tense – this can cause stomach cramps during or after orgasm

More serious causes of stomach pain

Sometimes, stomach pain could point to something serious, so if you do experience any of the following symptoms, please seek medical advice immediately.

• Pre-eclampsia – stomach pain with other symptoms.

• Ectopic pregnancy – stomach pain that moves across your tummy.

• Miscarriage – stomach cramps with vaginal bleeding.

• Premature labour – between the 20th and 36th week, stomach pain or cramps with diarrhoea, back pain and contractions.

At the end of the day, pregnancy pains are common and usually nothing to worry about. But you know your body better than anyone, so if any aches or pains are worrying you, make sure you talk to your doctor. Even if it does turn out to be indigestion, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.