Pregnancy & Baby 

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Is lower abdominal pain normal?

I am assuming that you have had an examination to confirm that your pregnancy is normal - and not an ectopic pregnancy. If you have not yet had an examination, it is very important to have one as soon as possible. Certain cysts, masses, adhesions (scar tissue) or infections can cause abdominal pain during pregnancy.

If all else is normal and you do not have a fever and are in good health, the pain could be caused by the stretching of ligaments as the uterus grows. Some uteri are tilted towards a woman's back and some are flipped up near the bladder. Depending upon how the uterus has to bend and turn in order to accommodate the enlarging foetus, it puts stress on certain ligaments and nerves in the pelvis. Sudden changes in intra-abdominal pressure such as those occurring with coughing, sneezing or changes in position can put tension on the ligaments. As the uterus accommodates itself to its mid-position and becomes better supported by the bony pelvis (in the second trimester), these discomforts may go away. They may return in the third trimester when the baby begins to favour one side over the other.

As I said, however, lower abdominal pain needs to be checked out, so arrange to see your GP or midwife soon.

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