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Left, Right, Center-What's What?

Frequently, abdominal pain on the left side is caused by constipation. Hormones, pressure from the growing womb, and a slowing of the digestive system all contribute to difficulty having bowel movements.

Eating foods that help with elimination without causing diarrhea are one of the better ways to handle this problem. Heartburn and gastritis are additional causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy.

There are several medications available to handle the pain and discomfort associated with dyspepsia, heartburn, and gastritis in pregnant women. They are obtainable over-the-counter, but it is always a good idea to check in with the doctor before purchasing any type of medication.

When abdominal pain strikes on the right side, the most common cause is appendicitis. It is, in fact, the most common cause of non-pregnancy-related abdominal pain during pregnancy.

Appendicitis accounts for nearly 25% of surgeries performed on pregnant women. Pain that hits in the upper right abdomen is usually caused by gallbladder stones, just as it is in women who are not pregnant.

Fatty foods trigger the assault of pain and it may be accompanied by vomiting. This can sometimes be accompanied by fever and inflammation, indicating an infection. The doctor will be able to assess the condition and determine a safe mode of treatment.

Practice Makes Perfect

When there is abdominal pain on the left during pregnancy, the common cause is Braxton Hicks contractions.

These "practice" contractions often occur throughout the pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. Even though they are normal, they are a cause for discomfort and abdominal pain.

Sometimes The Pain Just Means You're Pregnant

Abdominal pain can also be a symptom of pregnancy. As previously mentioned, ectopic pregnancies present with acute pain on one side or the other. A missed pregnancy is also identified by abdominal pain.

In a normal pregnancy, when the embryo implants into the uterus, there is lower abdominal pain and sometimes bleeding. Menstrual-like cramping in the very early stages of pregnancy is a common symptom.

As the uterus begins to grow, ligaments that support the uterus stretch, causing pain and discomfort.

The wonder of it all is that women gladly endure the pain and discomfort associated with pregnancy for the sheer joy of giving birth to their babies.