Sharp pains in right side during pregnancy
Stomach pain in pregnancy - NHS
Stomach (abdominal) pains or cramps are common in pregnancy. They're usually nothing to worry about, but they can sometimes be a sign of something more serious that needs to be checked.
It's probably nothing to worry about if the pain is mild and goes away when you change position, have a rest, do a poo or pass wind. But if you have stomach pains and are worried, call your midwife or maternity hospital.
Harmless stomach pains, which can be dull or sharp, may be caused by:
- ligament pain (often called "growing pains" as the ligaments stretch to support your growing bump) – this can feel like a sharp cramp on one side of your lower tummy
- constipation – which is common in pregnancy (find out how to avoid constipation)
- trapped wind
Urgent advice: Call your midwife immediately if you have stomach pain and:
- bleeding or spotting
- regular cramping or tightenings
- vaginal discharge that's unusual for you
- lower back pain
- pain or burning when you pee
- the pain is severe or does not go away after you've rested for 30 to 60 minutes
Any of these could be the symptoms of something that needs to be checked or treated urgently.
Possible causes of serious stomach pain
Some conditions that can cause stomach pain need to be checked urgently.
Ectopic pregnancy
This is when a fertilised egg implants outside the womb, for example in a fallopian tube. The pregnancy cannot survive and needs to be removed with medicine or surgery.
Symptoms typically appear between 4 and 12 weeks of pregnancy and can include:
- tummy pain and bleeding
- pain in the tip of your shoulder
- discomfort when pooing or peeing
Find out more about ectopic pregnancy
Miscarriage
Cramping pains and bleeding before 24 weeks of pregnancy can sometimes be a sign of miscarriage or threatened miscarriage (when you bleed but the pregnancy normally continues).
Pre-eclampsia
Pain just under the ribs is common in later pregnancy due to the growing baby and uterus pushing up under the ribs.
But if this pain is bad or persistent, particularly on the right side, it can be a sign of pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy) which affects some pregnant women. It usually starts after 20 weeks or just after the baby is born.
Other symptoms of pre-eclampsia include:
- severe headache
- vision problems
- swollen feet, hands and face
You'll need to be monitored in hospital.
Find out more about pre-eclampsia
Premature labour
If you're less than 37 weeks pregnant and are having regular abdominal cramps or tightenings, call your midwife.
This could be a sign of premature labour, and you'll need to be monitored in hospital.
Placental abruption
This is when the placenta starts to come away from the wall of the womb, usually causing bleeding and constant severe pain that does not come and go like a contraction pain.
It's sometimes an emergency because it means the placenta may not be able to support your baby properly.
You should go to the hospital so you and your baby can be checked.
Find out more about placental abruption
UTI (urinary tract infection)
UTIs are common in pregnancy and can usually be easily treated. They can cause tummy pain and sometimes, but not always, pain when you pee.
Find out more about UTIs
Page last reviewed: 20 June 2021
Next review due: 20 June 2024
What It Means and Treatments
Pregnancy brings about some major changes to your life and to your body.
While most of it is twinged with hopeful excitement, it can feel overwhelming to be going through so many things at once.
And the experience of carrying a baby often means that each unexpected pain or new symptom brings with it questions and concerns, many focused on “is this normal?”
The added pounds, digestive hiccups (that’s putting it mildly), and other physical changes that come along with growing a new life can cause pain in your side.
Right side pain during pregnancy is usually nothing to worry about. This pain can happen for a number of common reasons that are usually easily managed and temporary.
However, sometimes side pain in pregnancy can be a sign of something more serious. You might need medical help. Here’s what to look for if you have right side pain during pregnancy.
Muscle strain
As your body adapts to accommodate your growing bundle of joy (and growing breasts and growing feet and growing everything), you’ll put on weight. An average gain of 25 to 35 pounds is normal during pregnancy for most women.
You need that pregnancy weight to grow and feed a healthy baby. But, the added weight can make it easier to accidentally pull a muscle. This is most common in your second and third trimester.
The added weight, plus too much slouching while trying for a comfortable position for your new shape, or lifting a toddler or something else heavy can cause pain in your right side.
You might feel pain from a muscle sprain or strain in your side. A backache can also sometimes spread and cause pain in your mid to lower right side.
Round ligament pain
During pregnancy, your womb (uterus) expands like a balloon as your baby grows. The round ligaments are like ropes that help to hold your womb in place. They get softer and stretch as your uterus gets bigger.
Sometimes the round ligaments get irritated or too tight. This can often cause pain on your lower right side. You might feel sharp pain or a dull ache. This usually happens in your second trimester as the weight of the baby and amniotic fluids increase.
You might have round ligament pain when you get out of bed in the morning or when you move too quickly. Even a hard cough or sneeze can cause ligament pain.
You can usually relieve this right side pain by getting into a more comfortable position. Gentle stretches, moving slowly and flexing your hips also help.
Digestive causes
Gas, constipation, and bloating are common in pregnancy. What luck! As you have probably experienced, they can also cause right side pain.
Uncomfortable digestive issues are impacted by up-and-down hormone levels during pregnancy. Hormonal changes are especially common in your first and second trimester.
Later in pregnancy, the levels of the hormones may not have such an effect. However, in your third trimester weight gain can put pressure on your digestive tract (stomach and intestines). Along with heartburn, this can also cause gassiness and sharp, stabbing pain in the stomach or side.
Relieve the bloat — and pain — by drinking plenty of water and adding more fiber to your diet.
Fiber-rich foods include:
- fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables
- whole-grain bread and pasta
- lentils
- brown rice
- barley
Also avoid foods that cause gassiness, like:
- milk and other dairy foods
- fried foods
- artificial sweeteners
- beans
- cauliflower
- broccoli
Braxton-Hicks contractions
Braxton-Hicks are “false” contractions — kind of like a practice run for when the real thing happens. They usually happen in your third trimester, but can also happen earlier in your pregnancy.
Braxton-Hicks feel like a tightening or cramps in your lower stomach area. They might feel a bit like period cramps. These contractions are normally not painful, but the cramping may cause right side pain.
Unlike real contractions in labor, Braxton Hicks:
- might stop if you change position or move around
- don’t get closer together
- don’t get stronger over time
Cramping
It doesn’t seem fair to get cramps when you’re obviously not having periods.
(Shouldn’t we get the full benefits of period-free life for these months?) However, discomfort from cramping can be a normal part of pregnancy. Cramps can sometimes cause right side pain in your lower to mid stomach.
In the first and second trimester, you might sometimes get cramps as your womb stretches. In your third trimester cramps might be caused by muscle and ligament strain around your stomach and groin area.
Sexual intercourse in your second and third trimester can also trigger cramping pain. Any kind of cramping can cause aches or stabbing pain. Cramps usually go away by themselves.
Ectopic pregnancy
In an ectopic pregnancy the fertilized egg starts growing outside the uterus. A healthy, normal pregnancy can only happen in the womb. An ectopic pregnancy can be harmful to your health.
This condition can cause severe right side pain and cramping early in your pregnancy and possibly before you even realize that you are pregnant. You will likely also have other symptoms like:
- sharp stomach pain
- light or heavy bleeding
- red or brown bleeding
Let your doctor know immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
Sometimes an ectopic pregnancy has to be removed before it causes damage in your body. You can go on to having a normal pregnancy after experiencing an ectopic pregnancy.
Miscarriage
Severe right side pain in your lower stomach along with other symptoms might mean you are having a miscarriage. See a doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms:
- spotting, red bleeding, or clots
- serious pain or cramping in your lower stomach
- lower back pain
You are most likely to have a miscarriage in your first trimester. Sometimes they can happen before you even know you are pregnant. Miscarriages are common — up to 15 percent of women who know they are pregnant miscarry — and normally can’t be prevented.
It’s important to seek support after a miscarriage, as it’s totally normal to have intense feelings of grief and loss. Ask for help from your friends and family, or talk to your doctor about local or online support groups or counseling.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis — an infection or inflammation in your appendix — happens in about 0.05 percent of pregnant women. While it’s not common in pregnancy, you may not realize that you have appendicitis because some of the symptoms can feel like other pregnancy symptoms.
This can be dangerous because an infected appendix can swell and burst if it is not treated. A burst appendix can spread harmful toxins in your body. You can get appendicitis at any time in your pregnancy.
Appendicitis usually causes lower right side pain. You might feel a sharp pain or a dull ache. You may also have other classic symptoms like:
- stomach pain around your belly button area
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- fever
During pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, you may have less common symptoms of appendicitis:
- mid to upper right side pain
- heartburn
- gassiness
- diarrhea
- fatigue
Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
Gallstones
Your gallbladder can get finicky during pregnancy. This pear-shaped sack is on the upper right side of your abdomen. It helps to digest fats from the food you eat. Sometimes, the fluid inside it — bile — can form hard stones.
Gallstones are more common when you’re pregnant because your digestive system slows down. Your risk increases the more pregnancies you have. Gallstones can happen at any time during your pregnancy.
Symptoms of gallstones include:
- upper right side pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite
- fever
Let your doctor know if you have any of these symptoms. Sometimes gallstones can go away by themselves. Avoiding all fatty and fried foods can help stop your symptoms.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition associated with pregnancy. This condition has a number of effects including high blood pressure.
Almost 5 to 8 percent of pregnant women get preeclampsia or related hypertensive disorders.
It most commonly appears in your second and third trimester.
Preeclampsia can raise your blood pressure to dangerous levels. This can put you at risk of a stroke. It can also damage your liver, kidneys, or lungs.
If you have preeclampsia you might get pain in your upper right side, usually just under the ribs. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any symptoms of preeclampsia:
- headaches
- blurred vision
- sensitivity to bright light
- nausea
- vomiting
- fatigue
- swelling (especially in your legs)
- shortness of breath
- easy bruising
- little urination
Right side pain that is caused by a muscle or ligament strain can usually be soothed with at-home treatments. Pain caused by gassiness may get better if you watch what you eat.
Ease muscle pain, sore ligaments, and cramps by:
- changing position
- lying down
- walking or moving
- using a hot water bottle or heat pads
- taking a warm bath
- massages
- taking over-the-counter pain medication
Most muscle and ligament pain will eventually go away without treatment.
See your doctor if:
- your side pain is constant or severe
- your side pain is worse at night or when you lie down
- you have swelling or redness in the area
More serious causes of right side pain during pregnancy may also cause other symptoms. These could be signs of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, gallstones, preeclampsia, and other conditions. You may need treatment including surgery.
You may need treatment including surgery.
Get urgent medical care if you have:
- severe pain
- pain that doesn’t get better or go away
- headache pain
- blurred vision
- bleeding
- fever
- difficulty breathing
Aches and pains, including right side pain, are a normal part of pregnancy. Common causes include weight gain, rising hormone levels, and gassiness. The discomfort and pain will usually go away on its own or with at-home treatment.
More serious conditions can also cause right side pain during pregnancy.
Don’t ignore severe pain or pain that doesn’t go away. Let your doctor know about any symptoms you have.
Get emergency medical help if you have symptoms like high blood pressure, heavy bleeding, fever, and blurred vision.
Pain in the right side during pregnancy
Pain in the right side during pregnancy is the appearance of unpleasant sensations that can be at any time. There can be many reasons for such pain, so you should take any pain during pregnancy seriously, because we are talking about two lives. To be sure that nothing threatens the mother and child, you need to consult a doctor.
Causes of pain in the right side during pregnancy
There can be a lot of reasons for the development of pain of such localization when carrying a child. First of all, you need to know about the gestational age. Pain in the right side, as a sign of pregnancy, is very common. They occur after a fertilized egg implants in the uterine cavity. This often happens in the right horn of the uterus, which is accompanied by the process of dissolution of the endometrium for normal implantation.
Nerve endings can be involved in this process, so when a woman has a little physical activity, she may feel pain in her right side - the site of egg implantation. Therefore, it can even be one of the indirect signs of pregnancy itself, if the woman does not know about it yet. nine0003
As for other etiological factors for the appearance of pain in the right side during pregnancy, they depend on the duration of pregnancy. During pregnancy, the uterus increases every week to a certain size, which can cause compression of the internal organs and provoke the appearance of various symptoms. In the right lateral flank of the abdomen is the liver, gallbladder, small and large intestine, right kidney, appendix. The pathogenesis of the onset of symptoms is due to the fact that the enlarged uterus presses on these organs, which is the cause of the appearance of certain unpleasant sensations. When these organs are compressed, blood circulation, normal innervation can be disturbed, and various symptoms appear, combined with such a pain syndrome.
This condition occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy, when the uterus reaches such a size that it can cause compression. nine0003
Among other causes of such pain, inflammatory diseases can be named in the first place. During pregnancy, all chronic diseases tend to become more active due to a decrease in immune defenses. Therefore, pregnancy itself is a risk factor for exacerbation of chronic cholecystitis. Then the pain is caused by inflammation of its wall and irritation of the peritoneum. If cholecystitis is calculous, then often a change in the location of the gallbladder due to compression by the uterus can cause the movement of stones, so hepatic colic may be the etiological factor for acute pain in such localization. If a woman has liver problems, then during pregnancy this can also lead to pain. The liver performs the load both for the child and for the mother, therefore, with additional physical activity, its capsule can strain, which causes pain in the right side. nine0003
Violation of peristalsis and normal bowel function can also be manifested by pain in the right side.
After all, compression of the small and large intestines leads to the fact that not only their peristalsis is disturbed, but over time, the biocenosis, which further affects the symptoms. Inflammation of the intestines after poisoning in the form of acute enteritis or enterocolitis often causes similar pains in the right side, since the enlarged uterus displaces the intestines. Therefore, the pain has just such localization. nine0003
During pregnancy, the location of the kidneys and ureters is disturbed, they rise higher, so inflammatory or mechanical disorders in these organs can lead to irradiation of pain. Often, right-sided pyelonephritis in pregnant women is accompanied by right-sided pain, as the first sign of the disease. In this case, the kidney capsule is also stretched and this leads to pain in the side. It is also worth excluding renal colic as the cause of such pain.
The most serious cause in terms of possible complications is inflammation of the appendix - acute appendicitis.
It is localized on the initial part of the caecum, which is located in the right iliac region. But this gut does not have a large mesentery, so it is very dynamic. Often in pregnant women, the appendix changes its location and can be under the liver, and even near the right kidney. But the pain radiates when the peritoneum is irritated and is always located on the right, so do not forget about appendicitis, because pregnancy itself does not exclude the possibility of acute appendicitis, but rather predisposes to it. nine0003
In late pregnancy, there may be premature detachment of the placenta, which is caused, for example, by preeclampsia. This condition is accompanied by an increase in blood pressure in a woman, which is often complicated by placental abruption. If it occurs on the right side of the uterus, it can cause pain in the side.
An ectopic pregnancy that develops in the right fallopian tube, when it ruptures, may present with symptoms of right-sided pain. This is important to consider, because sometimes a woman may still not know about pregnancy.
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Risk factors for pain in the right side during pregnancy
Given the variety of causes of pain in the right side of pregnant women, it is necessary to carefully diagnose all the symptoms in order to accurately determine the etiology of this pain and determine the need for treatment. The main risk factors should be considered even during prevention:
Epidemiology of pain during pregnancy
The epidemiology of the spread of pain during pregnancy is very wide. About 96% of pregnant women experience abdominal pain in the third trimester of pregnancy, and 65% of such pain is localized in the right side. Not always such pain is the cause of an organic disease, only 72% is a pathology.
Among these diseases, the first place is the pathology of the liver and gallbladder, the second is acute appendicitis, as well as chronic bowel diseases. But nevertheless, it is necessary to carefully carry out differential diagnostics, because all these pathologies can be complicated. nine0003
Symptoms of pain in the right side during pregnancy
To know what causes such pain in a pregnant woman, one must take into account not only the pain in the right side, but also other manifestations that accompany this pathology. After all, already at the stage of the survey, you can make a preliminary diagnosis and decide on treatment.
If discomfort in the right side is caused by a physiological increase in the uterus, then such pain is not expressed all the time and is not very intense, it occurs after overeating or a certain load. At the same time, the general condition of the woman does not change, and there are no other symptoms. This indicates that such pain is a physiological condition and if it does not bring any other pronounced symptoms, then you should not worry.
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Chronic non-calculous cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder, which is accompanied by thickening of its wall and irritation of the peritoneum. This is characterized by the appearance of dull right-sided pain, which is often provoked by fatty foods. Such pain appears gradually, it is not very pronounced and is localized under the right rib. Symptoms that may be associated with this are a feeling of bitterness in the mouth, stool disorders, nausea or vomiting. Such inflammation may be accompanied by an intoxication syndrome - there may be a slight increase in body temperature. nine0003
Severe and sharp pain on the right side can also be caused by hepatic colic. If a pregnant woman had calculous cholecystitis, then the movement of stones can cause just such a sharp pain. This is accompanied by strong anxiety, the woman cannot sit still - such is the severity of the pain. The first signs of the disease may begin with vomiting, which does not bring relief.
This condition requires immediate action, as the tone of the uterus may increase and premature birth may begin. nine0003
Aching pain on the right in pregnant women often develops against the background of diaphragmatic hernia. Then the pain is persistent and is often accompanied by dyspeptic disorders. Increased pressure in the abdominal cavity causes these symptoms and after childbirth, such a hernia may go away on its own.
Pain in the right side of a stabbing character can be caused by renal colic. Then it starts in the lumbar region and radiates to the region of the right ovary and genitals. Acute right-sided pyelonephritis is also accompanied by pain in the right side, but such pain is less pronounced and has a permanent character. With pathology of the kidneys and urolithiasis, there are always violations of the process of urination. There may be pain or pain along the ureters, as well as frequent urination or false urge to it. nine0003
Pain in the right side in pregnant women can be initiated by acute enteritis.
After a certain food, there may be a slight inflammatory process in the intestines, which is accompanied by pain and impaired stool. Symptoms develop gradually and there is always a connection with the intake of certain foods.
Pain in the right side below during pregnancy is always alarming in terms of acute surgical pathology. Acute appendicitis is always accompanied by inflammation of the peritoneum. The characteristic symptoms of this disease is that the pain begins in the epigastrium under the sternum, and then it moves down the abdomen to the right. Then another symptom appears - Shchetkina-Blumberg, when the peritoneum is irritated in this place. nine0003
Premature detachment of the placenta begins with a sharp pain in the right side, where the placenta exfoliates and is accompanied by bleeding. The area of detached placenta passes blood, the normal blood circulation of the fetus is disturbed, which is accompanied by symptoms from the fetus. Then the heartbeat may increase or decrease and hypoxia occurs, which entails serious consequences.
Thus, many causes of pain in the right side during pregnancy require a thorough diagnosis with the definition of all symptoms and additional research methods. nine0003
Diagnosis of pain in the right side during pregnancy
Diagnosis of any pain syndrome during pregnancy should exclude conditions that threaten the life of the child and mother. Therefore, all additional tests should be carried out to ensure the normal development of the fetus.
It is important to find out all the anamnestic data with the definition of the nature of the pain, its intensity, and the connection with food. Be sure to find out if a woman has chronic diseases such as cholecystitis, enteritis, urolithiasis. You should also ask about other symptoms, whether they are associated with pain, and whether the woman has taken pain medication. If a woman has had an appendectomy, then this diagnosis can be easily ruled out. nine0003
When examining a pregnant woman, you must first study the reaction of the child to this pain.
It is necessary to determine the heartbeat and movements of the fetus, its condition with such symptoms. To exclude the pathology of the liver and gallbladder, you need to determine all the symptoms. Positive symptoms of Ortner, Mussy, Murphy, or at least some of them, give reason to suspect an exacerbation of cholecystitis.
It is necessary to check Pasternatsky's symptom, if it is positive on at least one side, then this is a probable pathology of the kidneys. nine0003
Diagnosing acute appendicitis in a pregnant woman is a little tricky because an enlarged uterus can change the position of the appendix. But the characteristic symptom of the appearance of pain, first in the epigastrium, and then in the right lower abdomen, is very common. When examining such a woman, it can be determined that the maximum soreness occurs when the doctor removes his fingers from the abdomen, and not when he touches. Additional studies are always needed to accurately exclude acute abdominal pathology.
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The tests that need to be passed should also be carried out for the purpose of differential diagnosis. It is necessary to pass a general blood test, a general urinalysis and determine the level of blood glucose. Further, special analyzes are needed that exclude one or another pathology. If appendicitis is suspected in the blood test, there will be a significant leukocytosis with a shift of the formula to the left and an acceleration of the ESR. The same changes are characteristic of cholecystitis. If there is a suspicion of liver pathology, then a biochemical blood test is needed to determine the level of bilirubin, its fractions and cytolytic enzymes. nine0003
If all laboratory parameters are within the normal range, then it is necessary to conduct an instrumental study to exclude or confirm a specific diagnosis. Ultrasound can be considered the main method of instrumental diagnostics during pregnancy. This method is not so harmful to the child and can be of great diagnostic value for most diagnoses.
According to the results of ultrasound, one can say about inflammation of the gallbladder - then its wall thickens and there will be a fuzzy shadow in the cavity. You can identify a stone in the gallbladder or ureter and confirm colic. Acute right-sided pyelonephritis can also be defined as an expansion of the pelvic system. nine0003
If acute appendicitis is suspected, a rectal examination is performed. The benefit of this diagnosis is evidenced by a sharp soreness of the rectal wall in the projection of the appendix during palpation. This is a very serious symptom that confirms an acute pathology.
In addition to the condition of the mother, ultrasound allows you to assess the condition of the fetus. It is possible to exclude pathology of the placenta and other complications of pregnancy, which is important for differential diagnosis. If the disease occurs in the third trimester, then in addition to the ultrasound of the fetus, it is necessary to conduct a cardiotocogram to determine the condition of the child and the risk of complications.
Then it is possible to determine a violation of the heartbeat, increased uterine tone and premature birth, which can be the cause of pain in the right side with the same probability as other pathologies. nine0003
Differential diagnosis of pain in the right side during pregnancy
Differential diagnosis of the pathology that causes pain in the right side during pregnancy is mainly aimed at determining the cause. First of all, it is necessary to differentiate an attack of acute appendicitis and right-sided renal colic. These pathologies have a similar manifestation, but with appendicitis there is fever and other signs of inflammation, and colic may be accompanied by vomiting and nausea without fever. nine0003
It is equally important to differentiate the pathology of the internal organs directly from the causes of the pregnancy itself. Premature detachment of the placenta has a clinic with a similar pain syndrome, especially if the placenta has detached on the right.
But at the same time, spotting is often observed, and it can be confirmed with the help of ultrasound - a retroplacental accumulation of blood is determined. This is an urgent situation that requires immediate action, therefore, in a pregnant woman, it is first necessary to differentiate this condition from other pathologies. nine0003
The correct diagnosis and cause of the disease is necessary in order to start treatment on time, before complications appear.
Treatment of right side pain during pregnancy
The treatment of a pregnant woman puts the main task of eliminating the cause of pain, but first of all, it is necessary to reduce the severity of the pain syndrome so that there are no premature births and other complications. If we are talking about acute surgical pathology, then drug treatment is only part of the preparation for surgery. nine0003
If the cause of acute pain is renal or hepatic colic, then anesthesia should be immediately performed, since the severity of the pain syndrome is very strong.
Dosage - 50 mg at a time after meals. Side effects - dyspeptic disorders, dizziness, hepatitis, erosive and ulcerative lesions of the stomach, duodenum 12, allergic rash (rarely), "aspirin asthma". Given the strong effect on the gastrointestinal tract, it is advisable to take the drug under the guise of proton pump inhibitors. nine0027 If the pain in the right side, according to the exact data of the ultrasound examination, is caused by right-sided pyelonephritis, then complex treatment should be used, the main element of which is the restoration of urine outflow. In pregnant women, pyelonephritis is secondary due to the fact that the uterus compresses the ureters, so a mandatory element of treatment is stenting with the restoration of urine outflow. Then you need to prescribe an antibiotic that can be given to pregnant women. Such approved antibacterial agents include unprotected aminopenicillins and cephalosporins. If we are talking about exacerbation of chronic cholecystitis, then it is necessary to use an antibiotic in the treatment.
Antipyretic and antispasmodic drugs can be added to complex treatment. nine0003
Lactobacterin is a drug that contains lactobacilli, which form lactic acid and prevent pathogenic bacteria from multiplying.
Due to this, the drug creates favorable conditions for the development of beneficial intestinal microflora. These properties of the drug contribute to the fact that spasmodic phenomena in the intestines pass and the pain decreases if the cause is physiological changes. The dosage sufficient to restore the microflora and intestinal peristalsis is one dose of the drug once a day. Side effects are diarrhea or a feeling of heaviness and fullness in the abdomen, which disappears after a while. Precautions - if there are symptoms of food poisoning, then taking the drug must be agreed with the doctor. nine0003
Vitamins can be used by a woman to treat pain and discomfort that is caused by functional bowel spasms. In this case, preference should be given to complex vitamin preparations with an increased amount of magnesium.
Physiotherapy treatment is possible only if it is not contraindicated for a pregnant woman and does not harm the child. For example, with exacerbation of chronic cholecystitis, thermal procedures cannot be used.
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Surgical treatment of pain in the right side during pregnancy is the main method if a woman has acute appendicitis. In this case, general anesthesia is performed, taking into account minimal harm to the child, and the operation begins. Operative access depends on the gestational age and the degree of uterine enlargement. In most cases, a classical approach is performed in the right iliac region and, bypassing the uterus, the inflamed appendix is removed.
If the cause of the pain is premature detachment of the placenta, then the woman should be immediately hospitalized in the maternity hospital with the determination of the need for delivery. nine0003
Traditional treatment of pain in the right side during pregnancy
Alternative methods of treating such pain are widely used if there is no organic pathology. If a woman has chronic cholecystitis or urolithiasis, drugs are used that reduce the formation of stones. If the function of the intestine is impaired, then they also use means to improve peristalsis and normalize the function of digestion.
Therefore, with severe spasmodic pain caused by gallbladder pathology, tincture is used. To do this, pour three large grape leaves with liquid fresh honey and leave to infuse for a month. The tincture should be stirred periodically and at the end of the period add a few drops of olive oil. You need to take such an infusion for pain in a teaspoon, it neutralizes the pain syndrome and does not harm the child. nine0027 The use of herbs also has a good effect on the spasmodic gallbladder and intestines, improves the outflow of bile, and normalizes digestion. For this purpose, various herbal infusions and teas are used.
Before taking, you can add sugar and citric acid. nine0027 Homeopathy can be used for many processes in the intestines and gallbladder, while there is no harm to the child. Homeopathic remedies can be combined in such a way as to act on many processes in the body of a pregnant woman, which expands the possibilities of using this group of medicines.
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Precautions - do not take if allergic to lilies. 
Precautions - the use of the drug in the acute period of intestinal infection is not recommended. Complications and consequences of pain in the right side during pregnancy
The consequences of pain in the right side can be very serious, especially when it comes to acute surgical pathology. Complications of acute appendicitis can be in the form of the spread of the process to the peritoneum and the development of purulent peritonitis. This is a very serious complication not only for the mother, but also for the child. The consequences of late diagnosis of pain syndrome can be very serious, especially when it comes to diseases such as cholecystitis. Then there may be an empyema of the gallbladder and the spread of infection with the formation of subhepatic abscesses. The consequence of untimely diagnosis of placental abruption may be a large retroplacental hematoma, which will ultimately lead to the need to remove the uterus. nine0003
Given such complications, it is necessary to diagnose diseases in a timely manner.
Prevention of pain in the right side during pregnancy
Prevention of the appearance of pain in the right side during pregnancy is non-specific, since this condition is difficult to foresee. To avoid complications and exacerbations of chronic diseases before planning pregnancy, you need to carefully examine and prevent these symptoms. For the normal bearing of pregnancy, it is necessary to follow the regime, the food must be fresh and healthy. It is necessary to protect the health of a pregnant woman as much as possible in order to avoid various infections. nine0003
Prognosis of pain in the right side during pregnancy
The prognosis for a normal pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child is favorable even if the pain is caused by acute appendicitis, but timely treatment has been carried out. Therefore, the main element is the timeliness and adequacy of treatment.
Pain in the right side during pregnancy can often indicate an inflammatory process in the gallbladder, intestines, or acute appendicitis.
Therefore, when such symptoms appear, it is necessary first of all to exclude such serious diseases, especially if there are other symptoms. All conditions are perfectly treated and you should not worry about the life of the unborn child, because the prognosis is favorable with timely treatment. nine0003
What should I know about abdominal pain during pregnancy?
A pregnant woman is especially sensitive to any manifestations of her body. She listens to the behavior of the baby, pays attention to pain or discomfort. Abdominal pain during pregnancy is one of the most common symptoms that can disturb a woman.
In addition to simple food poisoning, these pains may be accompanied by additional symptoms. Also, pain can be caused by a number of other reasons. In this matter, the main thing is to identify the true cause and assess the risk of its effect on the fetus inside the mother. nine0003
Definitely do not ignore any pain symptoms if you are not sure of their origin.
Pulling or sharp pains can be caused by various reasons, up to the threat of miscarriage. Therefore, to make a diagnosis and solve this problem, it is better to contact the specialists of the IPF clinic so that further pregnancy proceeds without complications.
Abdominal pain in normal pregnancy, cause of pain
Causes of abdominal pain in pregnancy can be classified into harmless and abnormal. Let's consider safe pains, when they do not pose a particular threat to the child and can be eliminated by a simple change in position, breathing, or dietary adjustments. nine0003
- Growing pains - the fetus is constantly growing. At some point, due to stretching of the uterus and tension of the ligaments, you may feel discomfort in the abdomen.
- Training contractions are common at the end of the 3rd trimester, when a woman may experience cramping pain that subsides after a while.
- Movement of the internal organs - due to the growth of the fetus, the internal organs are displaced, causing some discomfort.
- Appendicitis - this inflammation can also occur during pregnancy, it is accompanied by a sharp pain in the right side. The operation to remove it will not affect the child in any way. The only inconvenience is the need for anesthesia. nine0027
- Bloating - due to hormonal changes in the body, the work of the intestines changes. The digestion process can slow down, and certain foods can cause gas and bloating.
- Constipation - abdominal pain during early pregnancy sometimes causes bowel problems. Some foods may not be digestible well even if you ate them without problems before pregnancy.
Symptoms of abnormal pain: when to see a doctor
In addition to aching or sharp pains in the abdomen, other unpleasant symptoms may occur:
- Back pain.
- Bloody discharge from the vagina.
- Pain when urinating.
- Pain during intercourse, etc.
The nature of the pain can also indicate several specific causes.
For example, pain in the navel can be caused by stretching of the abdominal muscles during the growth of the fetus, the presence of a weak press that feels uncomfortable while the skin is stretched.
If you feel a sharp colitis in your stomach during pregnancy and after a while this pain only intensifies, then you should definitely consult a doctor. Also, the main signal to go to the hospital is additional symptoms in the form of brown or bloody discharge from the vagina. nine0003
Causes of abnormal pain:
- Ectopic pregnancy - may be accompanied by severe pain when the egg attaches to the wall of the fallopian tube and stretches it.
- Placental abruption - due to a lack of the hormone progesterone, the placenta can begin to exfoliate from the uterus, which causes pain in the lower abdomen and provokes internal bleeding.
- Pre-eclampsia - there is a sharp increase in blood pressure, together with pain in the stomach, nausea, headache, swelling of the extremities, respiratory failure.
In this case, outpatient treatment or hospitalization is necessary in case of critical preeclampsia. nine0027 - Risk of miscarriage - in case of possible loss of the fetus, pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy. The nature of the pain is aching or spasmodic. The next stage is the appearance of spotting or the development of rapid bleeding.
- Urinary tract infections - are accompanied not only by aching pains in the lower abdomen, but also there is frequent or uncontrolled urge to urinate, pain during urination. The infection can later affect the kidneys and cause nausea, back pain, high fever, etc.
My stomach hurts during pregnancy, what should I do?
If you have abdominal pain during pregnancy, the first thing to do is to calm down and start listening to your body in more detail. If, in addition to abdominal pain, you do not experience any other unpleasant sensations (pain in the back, limbs) or there is no vaginal discharge, then you can try to cope with the pain yourself.
- First you need to lie down. nine0027
- Choose a comfortable position. Especially if you are in the 3rd trimester, you need to find the optimal position of the abdomen to minimize any pressure. For example, lie on your right side, put a pillow near your stomach.
- Drink some water. Discomfort from heartburn can always be distinguished. Therefore, if you have eaten something new that provokes heartburn, then you can drink water saturated with mineral salts.
- You can take a warm shower.
If during all the manipulations, the pain became stronger or additional symptoms appeared, then you should call an ambulance or go to the hospital yourself. nine0003
How can you tell if pain is not dangerous?
In 70% of cases, a woman can determine why her stomach hurts during pregnancy. For example, if a new product or food was consumed that provokes bloating, heartburn. These foods include onions, tomatoes, citrus fruits, milk, carbonated drinks, fried or fatty foods.
Also, if a woman has a second pregnancy, then training contractions can be recognized immediately.
Any pain can be considered harmless if it does not get worse and stops after a while. If, nevertheless, you feel that the pain has a dangerous cause, then you can always consult a doctor, do an ultrasound scan and take tests. nine0003
Benefits of choosing IPF
The IPF Family Planning Institute is a specialist center for pregnancy management, examination and treatment. The clinic employs the best gynecologists, ultrasound specialists who will conduct a detailed examination and identify the cause of pain.
What should I do if my stomach hurts for several hours without feeling better? Then you should definitely contact us at the clinic. Before the ultrasound, you can pass the necessary tests of urine and blood. Thanks to the presence of our own diagnostic laboratory, the analyzes will be ready within a few hours.
