Since pregnancy is such a crucial period in the life of a woman, she leaves no stone unturned to ensure the well being of her little baby. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through a number of significant changes. Most of these changes are attributed to the increase in hormone production in the body, an inevitable part and parcel of pregnancy. Other changes occur as a result of weight gain as well as the expanding uterus and the pressure it exerts on various organs. As the uterus expands, it pushes the stomach higher. This in turn exerts pressure on the esophagus which is already weak as a result of hormonal changes.
These factors are responsible for heartburn and indigestion. Gas also builds up in the abdominal cavity. These are the main causes of upper abdominal discomfort during pregnancy. Causes of upper abdominal pain during pregnancy also include gastritis – a condition wherein the lining of the stomach wall gets inflamed due to reasons such as acidity and stress. Since the body is still getting used to dealing with pregnancy, indigestion related discomfort is the main cause for upper abdominal pain during pregnancy - first trimester. In addition, bowel movement also gets affected due to a sluggish digestive system. Since, the expectant mother’s immune system becomes weak during pregnancy, upper abdominal pain during pregnancy could also be due to infection.
Upper abdominal pain during early pregnancy could be caused by a condition called an ectopic pregnancy. In this case, the fertilized egg embeds itself outside the uterus, mainly in the fallopian tube. Since there is no room for proper expansion and growth, this condition can prove to be extremely painful as well as fatal. During the initial weeks of pregnancy, the uterus fills up the pelvic cavity. When there is no more room for expansion there, the uterus grows upwards. As a result of this, upper abdominal pain during pregnancy - second trimester is usually due to the strain exerted on various ligaments as well as due to the expanding of the ribcage to make room for the growing uterus and baby. Braxton Hicks or false labor signs could also cause abdominal pain or contractions. Since actual labor related contractions normally begin at the top of the uterus, upper abdominal pain during pregnancy - third trimester is most likely a sign of the onset of labor. Informing your doctor of any form of abdominal pain is highly recommended so as to prevent uncalled for complications.
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