Why do nagging abdominal pains occur in the second trimester of pregnancy? What kind of pain can a pregnant woman encounter - the main types of pain during pregnancy, their causes and features Why does the stomach hurt in the second trimester?

The 2nd trimester is a time when the expectant mother can enjoy an “interesting situation”, because this period is usually accompanied by good health. But this is not always the case. Sometimes the 2nd trimester of pregnancy is overshadowed by back and lower back pain. Why do they arise? When should you worry? Let's try to figure it out.

If the early stages of pregnancy are remembered by toxicosis and general malaise, then the second trimester is remembered by many as the “golden time”. By this moment, nausea disappears, and the expectant mother regains her energy. However, pregnancy progresses differently for everyone: some people remember the second trimester as the best time, while others have new problems at this time - pain. Painful sensations in the abdomen and lower back in mid-pregnancy are a common occurrence; they do not always indicate pathology, however, if such symptoms appear, you need to be wary.

Abdominal pain: causes

Why does my stomach hurt in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy? There can be a huge number of reasons. Do not rush to get scared, many of them are quite harmless, but there are also some that can negatively affect the course of pregnancy. But first things first.

The 2nd trimester of pregnancy is characterized by the fact that the uterus begins to rapidly increase in size, most often because of this, the lower abdomen hurts and pulls. Such pains are not dangerous, but cause discomfort to the expectant mother. Normally, the discomfort lasts only a few minutes. If you have had abdominal surgery, then an enlarged uterus will most likely cause pain: the sutures will stretch, causing discomfort.

In the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, even poor nutrition can trigger aching pain in the lower abdomen. Stale food, too heavy a dinner, and increased gas formation cause discomfort. Sometimes pain occurs due to constipation, which often plagues a pregnant woman in the second trimester; it appears against a background of stress, due to excessive physical exertion, etc. Pain that is not pathological in nature can be easily eliminated: you need to monitor your diet, lifestyle, and perform special exercises. This pain is short-lived and does not have negative consequences.

Pain in the abdomen can also indicate the presence of a serious problem, so you should not ignore it. If in the second trimester the lower abdomen regularly pulls, this may indicate various pathologies of pregnancy and gynecological problems. It is especially dangerous if there are other alarming symptoms: uncharacteristic discharge, fever, general malaise, etc.

Abdominal pain is a reason to make an appointment with a doctor. If the pain does not go away, the pain is severe, then you should seek medical help immediately.

Lower back pain in the 2nd trimester: why do they appear?

In the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, every second expectant mother experiences back pain. Is this familiar to you too? Let's talk about the causes of pain and ways to eliminate discomfort. Why does the lower back often hurt in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy? Pain in the back is quite natural during this period: at this time, the spine experiences heavy loads, and the abdominal muscles are weakened due to overstretching. The pain appears after a long walk, after sitting in an uncomfortable position, physical activity, etc.

Special exercises and a diet that includes foods rich in calcium will help reduce pain caused by the stress that accompanies the “interesting position.” Sleep on an orthopedic mattress and choose comfortable shoes.

In the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, pathological pain in the lower back may occur. Severe back pain is caused by various neuralgic diseases and kidney diseases. This is dangerous for mother and child, so if the pain is sharp, severe, cramping and accompanied by other alarming symptoms, then you should immediately consult a doctor. In case of pathological pain, treatment is not aimed at eliminating it, but at fighting the disease, as a result of which it is possible to stop the unpleasant symptom.

The most beautiful and happiest state for any woman - pregnancy - is often accompanied not only by unpleasant sensations due to hormonal changes in the body or the consequences of decreased immunity, but also overshadowed by severe pain, which significantly complicates the course of pregnancy.

Why and where does it hurt?

Pain can manifest itself in the area of a wide variety of organs, in other words, everything can hurt: the head, stomach, chest, lower back, legs, bones (, pubic symphysis, etc.). Some pain sensations will be very strong, but they will not affect you. disturb for a long time, while others, on the contrary, can be of a lasting nature.

In no case should an expectant mother endure pain, no matter where it manifests itself, because, firstly, your baby is suffering along with you, and secondly, painful sensations are not always accompanying pregnancy - very often they can signal you about some problems in your body.

Often pain is the first symptom of serious diseases that can lead to pregnancy complications or more dire consequences.

Therefore, do not ignore the pain, but immediately contact a doctor. It's better to be safe than to start a problem.

Stomach ache

The stomach is the most vulnerable place of a pregnant woman. Often in the last stages, expectant mothers walk as if they were carrying a precious, fragile vase in front of them, and this, to some extent, corresponds to reality, because a little person lives in their belly.

Therefore, any discomfort in the abdominal area seriously frightens a woman, and the appearance of pain even causes panic.

Since the abdomen is not a single organ, but rather a complex one, because this word means a whole system of different tissues, structures and other organs, only a specialist can detect the exact cause of the pain. And only after that he will prescribe you the appropriate treatment.

Doctors distinguish between obstetric and non-obstetric. If we talk about obstetric pain, then their causes can be precisely those factors that are directly related to the state of pregnancy and its complications:

if there is or, then the woman will feel heaviness or a weak nagging pain (with a threatened abortion), and when the nature of the pain changes to cramping (c), then this may indicate that a miscarriage has already begun, and urgent medical attention will be needed to save the life of the child;
in the early stages (up to 6-8 weeks), severe sharp pain, accompanied by other alarming symptoms, is a possible signal - you must immediately consult a doctor, since such a situation threatens not only your health, but even your life;
at the end of the third trimester, painful sensations can be caused by training contractions, and if they are accompanied by other precursors of labor, you need to quickly call an ambulance - perhaps you are already starting to give birth;
sometimes pain occurs with strong shocks or - this can happen if the baby is uncomfortable (with, and other complications);
also remember that as the baby grows, your uterus also grows and stretches, so the ligaments that support it may also hurt (such pain is usually short-term; women often feel it with any sudden movement or change of position).

Among the possible causes of other, that is, non-obstetric pain and painful sensations, the following conditional groups can be distinguished.

Complications from the digestive tract.

Sometimes old or chronic problems, such as dysbiosis, disorders and others, can worsen. Hormonal changes in the body, as well as other changes that occur in it under the influence of pregnancy, become the causes of constant pain - they often cause dull and bursting pain (as a rule, they appear in the lower abdomen or left side).

To eliminate such unpleasant sensations, you need to carefully take care of the correct diet: your diet should be balanced and complete, include fermented milk products, lots of vegetables, fruits, fresh herbs and other healthy foods.

Pain caused by a growing uterus.

Pain can also occur because all the internal organs shift as your child grows in the abdomen, and the intestines and stomach become greatly stretched and then compressed.

Unfortunately, it is unlikely that it will be possible to cope with such pain before the end of pregnancy. The doctor will advise you to maintain proper nutrition, moderate physical activity, proper sleep and rest.

Abdominal pain not associated with pregnancy.

Sometimes a pregnant woman may encounter some dangerous complications that will require immediate surgical intervention: this includes acute appendicitis, pancreatitis, exacerbation of inflammatory processes in the gall or bladder (cholecystitis), gastritis, etc.

You should be very careful and take care of your health, because even simple food poisoning can negatively affect pregnancy. In other cases, you will need immediate medical attention.

Pain in the chest and mammary glands

After conception, the entire female body is rebuilt. The breast, as one of the main organs of the expectant mother, immediately begins to change its structure, because she has to prepare for feeding the child.

For this to happen, the embryonic membrane actively secretes human chorionic gonadotropin, a special pregnancy hormone.

It is this that affects the mammary glands in such a way that they begin to increase in size, fill and swell. Some women may experience colostrum in the first months.

This process can be very painful, and additional lobules develop in the breast (in the mammary glands). Due to the fact that the blood vessels dilate and the blood flow increases, veins begin to bulge on the skin of the chest, and a vascular network appears.

A woman can also note the changes that occur with the nipples of the breast: they also swell, increase in size, sometimes become elongated and become very sensitive (in some cases, the nipples and the nipple area darken, and Montgomery glands appear near them - small rudimentary mammary glands that look , like small tubercles).

All these changes, of course, do not go unnoticed.

If a woman had rather large breasts before pregnancy, then during the period of bearing a child they can increase very much, which will lead to stretch marks and other unpleasant cosmetic defects.

Talk to your doctor to recommend possible breast care products.
A contrast shower and wiping will also help cope with severe itching, aching pain and sensitivity. This procedure will also be very useful for preventing stretch marks.
If you have no contraindications, do special physical exercises to strengthen your chest muscles and reduce pain.
Do not forget that you need to choose the right underwear: you should be comfortable in it, and for this, buy a bra only from natural fabrics, without wires and unnecessary decor.

It is quite normal for your breasts to become tender and painful during pregnancy. However, if the pain bothers you greatly, it is better to go for an examination with a mammologist to make sure that there are no complications.

Leg pain

One of the main problems of a pregnant woman is pain in the legs, and this is not surprising, because they bear the main burden of your body, which is rapidly gaining weight. In addition, there are several other causes of pain:

moving the center of gravity to the legs;
development or progression of varicose veins;
heaviness, fatigue, ;
ingrown toenails (usually due to uncomfortable shoes);

You should not self-medicate in any case. Be sure to consult a doctor, because varicose veins are not as harmless as they seem. After examining you, he will be able to decide on specific therapy.

Proper and balanced nutrition will help you provide your body with the most necessary things, satisfying its double needs for vitamins and nutrients. Also try to keep the weight you gain under control, because extra pounds are an additional burden on your legs.
Swelling can cause dehydration, so you need to monitor the amount of fluid you consume. During pregnancy, it is better to reduce the amount of salt in food as much as possible, and avoid hot spices altogether.
Very often, pain appears after you sit in one position or stand for a long time. Try not to let this happen. Also, do not cross your legs or cross your legs, so as not to impair blood circulation.
To prevent cramps, doctors advise doing a contrast shower or foot baths at night, wiping them with a terry towel, and doing a massage. It is recommended to sleep on your left side - this will help you not put pressure on the vena cava and avoid pain.
In the absence of contraindications, it is advisable not to give up physical activity. Swimming or water aerobics will be especially useful for pregnant women.
Your doctor may also recommend that you wear compression stockings, which is an excellent way to prevent varicose veins.

There are also special creams or ointments that relieve swelling and pain, but before using them it is better to consult a doctor.

If you haven't given up on heels yet, then it's time to do so. Choose only comfortable and high-quality shoes that will not squeeze your feet or cause you other discomfort.

Pain in the sacrum and lower back

Often pregnant women suffer from pain in the sacrum and lower back.

First, it’s worth understanding what the sacrum is and where it is located: it is a bone that is located between the two pelvic bones (at the top the sacrum is connected to the last lumbar vertebra, and at the bottom to the coccyx).

If we talk about factors that cause pain, they can also either be related to pregnancy or not.

The most common cause is simple overload of the spinal column. As you yourself understand, the muscular-ligamentous apparatus of the back is forced to withstand a large load, especially in the lumbar region.

In addition, as the abdomen grows, a woman may begin to walk incorrectly (bending strongly at the lower back, so that the pressure on the pelvis increases, and all the back muscles become very tense). All this undoubtedly causes pain or discomfort.

In the later stages, pain in the sacrum can be a signal of early or premature birth.

Training contractions or Bragston-Hicks contractions also cause pain in the lumbar region.

If the baby is still just “rehearsing” its birth, the doctor will recommend that you relax and unwind. It’s good if someone can give you a massage at this moment. Sometimes herbal tea helps relieve pain.

As for factors not directly related to pregnancy, it is worth indicating the following:

a pregnant woman may face aggravation of problems that are no longer new, for example, with osteochondrosis, scoliosis or other diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
Inflammatory processes in the gallbladder, kidneys or genitourinary system often worsen - then, in addition to pain, you will suffer from increased swelling, etc. If the pain is spasmodic, then we can talk about renal colic;
pain can be caused by infectious diseases of internal organs and gynecological diseases;
lumbar pain, reminiscent of contractions, if accompanied by suspicious vaginal discharge, is often a harbinger of miscarriage.

There are cases when a woman suffers from some kind of anomaly in the development of the spine (transitional lumbosacral vertebra, for example) - this will also cause pain. However, vertebrae can often become displaced after physical activity, a fall or injury, so you should be very careful and take good care of your health.

Only a doctor can understand what exactly causes pain and why. It is worth contacting him to eliminate any risks.

To alleviate the condition of a pregnant woman, she is recommended to wear a back support bandage, monitor her gait and posture, and do special therapeutic exercises.

Side pain

Pain in the side can be very different, and there are also quite a lot of reasons that cause it. They can only be identified after diagnosis by a specialist, who will prescribe appropriate treatment for you.

If you are worried about pain in the left side, which is localized from above, then it can be caused by problems with the spleen, pancreas, stomach (peptic ulcers, oncology). Sometimes the cause is a diaphragmatic hernia.
If there is pain from above, but in the right side, there are likely problems with the intestines, gall bladder (stones, infection), pancreas, liver (hepatitis, inflammation). Sometimes renal pathology can make itself felt in this way.
The lower right side hurts if you have problems with the ovaries (possibly a tumor), if a cyst has ruptured, or some kind of sexually transmitted infection has worsened.

Often a woman feels severe pain in this place during an ectopic pregnancy. However, the doctor's initial assumption may be a suspicion of appendicitis, which is extremely dangerous during pregnancy.

If you feel pain below, but in the left side, then its causes will be almost the same as in the case of the right side, only the possibility of appendicitis is now excluded.

In the later stages, a woman may be bothered by pain in her side due to severe compression of the internal organs, as well as when the child actively moves.

In any case, it is better to consult a doctor.

Headache

Very often pregnant women complain about.

They can be of a different nature: localized in certain parts of the head (temples, frontal or occipital parts), arise under the influence of certain diseases, being their symptom or direct manifestation (that is, be secondary), or be primary and arise on its own.

Migraines and tension headaches are among the most common causes of headaches. Attacks can be especially disturbing at the beginning of pregnancy, as the woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal changes.

Factors that provoke pain include:

ordinary physical irritants, such as excessively loud or sharp sounds, flickering lights, a strong unpleasant odor;
lack of sleep, severe fatigue, lack of proper rest;
nervous shock, stress and anxiety;
poor nutrition (excess caffeine, sweets, eating foods that affect the condition of blood vessels), feeling hungry;
negative impact of weather.

Sometimes high or low blood pressure can cause headaches. In the case of constant overstrain of the eyes and neck muscles (for example, forced long-term work performed in one position), headache attacks are also possible.

Doctors do not advise pregnant women to take any medications unless the pain is a symptom of other diseases. In extreme cases, you can take a paracetamol tablet. The same applies to headaches with a cold (it can become especially aggravated).

In addition, light massage, compresses, contrast showers, proper rest and complete rest are recommended. However, if it turns out that pain is a sign of meningitis, glaucoma, hematomas, tumors or other dangerous complications, then completely different measures will have to be taken.

Toothache

If you have not solved your dental problems before pregnancy, then the period of bearing your baby can have a very negative impact on the condition of your teeth.

This becomes especially noticeable in the early stages, when the growing baby takes the lion's share of the vitamins and nutrients that are so necessary for him to lay down and form vital organs.

The fact that pregnant women undergo radical changes in hormonal levels invariably affects the appearance or increase of dental plaque. If you do not remove it in time, another problem will arise - gingivitis, which, in turn, can lead to periodontitis and other unpleasant complications.

A lack of calcium and other vitamins or microelements makes itself felt by the depletion of tooth enamel. For this reason, many pregnant women complain of severe tooth sensitivity (a reaction may appear to cold or hot foods, etc.).

If you experience toothache, you should consult a doctor, as unhealthy teeth can cause infection. Of course, they will not perform very complex manipulations or operations (implantology, whitening, etc.), but they will be able to get rid of caries and acute toothache, especially since today’s possibilities of anesthesia are very wide (there is anesthesia that will not cause the child no harm). And radiovisiography will replace x-rays, if necessary.

Pay proper attention to caring for your teeth so that they bother you less during pregnancy. Ask your dentist for recommendations on choosing a toothpaste and brush that is right for your teeth and gums.

Sore throat

Since the immune system of a pregnant woman is significantly weakened, there is a very high risk of catching a cold or catching some kind of viral infection. One of the symptoms of such diseases is a sore throat.

Unfortunately, the situation may be complicated by the fact that you cannot get rid of it with the usual medical means, because during pregnancy it is forbidden to take even ordinary lozenges for a sore throat (like Septolete or Strepsils), almost all antipyretic or anti-flu medications too will have to be excluded.

If you fail to protect yourself and still get sick, try to call a doctor immediately, because only a specialist can prescribe medications. He will take the current situation into account and select the most optimal and safe medications for your baby.

In addition, you can gargle with herbal decoctions (calendula, rose hips), drink plenty of fluids, rest and talk less.

Pain in bones and pubic symphysis

Many pregnant women in their final stages experience bone pain.

Constantly growing weight, additional stress on the musculoskeletal system, lack of vitamins and microelements - all this causes pain and other unpleasant sensations in the bones.

Sometimes a woman's phosphorus-calcium metabolism may be disrupted, which leads to softening of the bone skeleton and even a dangerous condition - osteomalacia of pregnant women (critical or chronic deficiency of vitamin D and calcium, which can cause severe bone fragility, causeless fractures, and in particularly difficult cases, difficulties with independent movement).

Bone pain can also be caused by very specific diseases or problems with the musculoskeletal system:

rheumatoid arthritis;
arthrosis;
systemic lupus erythematosus.

Since these diseases are very unsafe for the expectant mother, she should immediately consult a doctor if she has severe bone pain.

If a woman is diagnosed with a deficiency of calcium or other useful substances and vitamins, the doctor will prescribe her additional intake of multivitamin complexes or other medications. It’s good if you can help yourself in this way.

However, sometimes you can encounter a more dangerous case - or symphysiopathy. The symphysis is called the pubis or pubic symphysis. As birth approaches, his bones may become mobile and come apart.

There is nothing supernatural in the fact that the bone tissue softens a little during the period of bearing a baby, because this is how your body tries to help a little person be born - by providing him with free passage.

However, with symphysitis or separation of the bones of the symphysis pubis, the woman is bothered by constant pain, she quickly gets tired, becomes weak, and has difficulty walking.

If the pathology occurs just before childbirth, then doctors will decide on a cesarean section.

An osteopathic doctor will be able to help you, who will recommend wearing a bandage, special exercises (in the pool, on a fitball), as well as other preventive and therapeutic measures.

Instead of a conclusion

It is not at all necessary that you will encounter all these pains and other unpleasant symptoms during pregnancy, because the causes of many diseases are simply an incorrect or unhealthy lifestyle.

If you consciously take the most important step in every woman’s life and undergo preconception preparation, you will be able to find out in advance if you have any health problems and safely solve them before conception, so that you can only enjoy a wonderful pregnancy period.

Painful sensations in the abdomen during pregnancy in the 13th and subsequent weeks are one of the most dangerous and unpleasant symptoms. In a number of situations, discomfort refers to normal physiological pain, behind which there are no abnormalities or diseases. In other cases, when pain in the second trimester becomes constant, sharp, and severe, serious problems can be suspected.

Physiological pain and its signs

Nagging pain and a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen in the second trimester of pregnancy often indicate natural physiological causes:

At 12-13 weeks, the uterus begins to actively enlarge. Blood circulation increases, muscle structure softens. This leads to unpleasant abdominal symptoms, which can get worse over time. Single and scanty bleeding in this case is not always a sign of a disease; they can be confused with menstruation, but confirmed pregnancy no longer allows such processes to occur.
At the end of the 2nd trimester, the rate of divergence of the pelvic bones and the pubic symphysis increases. Because of this, the pain in the lower abdomen worsens and can radiate to the lumbar region and perineum. However, these are not acute symptoms, but mild sipping sensations.
Disturbances in the digestive process occur in both early and late stages of pregnancy. In the sixth month, the intestines, liver and other gastrointestinal organs take on an unnatural position, causing diarrhea and other disorders. During the same period, flatulence and constipation may increase.
By the sixth month, the baby begins to actively grow and move. Its actions are sometimes painful for women - blows to the kidney, liver and intestines cause severe discomfort, but quickly recede. Pain also appears due to the fact that the uterus reacts to fetal movements with increased contractions.

Functional pain does not require emergency medical intervention. However, some women are prescribed certain medications to relieve symptoms.

Natural physiological pain caused by changes in the female body is almost always tolerable. In rare cases, acute discomfort is possible, which can be eliminated by taking simple and safe medications. But all this is provided that there are no other severe symptoms indicating health problems.

Causes of obstetric pain

Obstetric pain is a condition caused by pathological changes in the reproductive system. Most often they are associated with pregnancy and are negative in nature.

Risk of miscarriage

If in the second trimester a nagging pain in the lower abdomen appears, as during menstruation, and spotting occurs, this may be a sign of a miscarriage. In the absence of medical care, the symptoms intensify, the pain becomes cramping. Spontaneous abortion or childbirth is possible (at 7 months, as a rule, the child can be saved). There is a threat of miscarriage if there are strong violations of the doctor’s recommendations: active physical activity, stress and anxiety, infections.

Frozen pregnancy

At the beginning of the second trimester, the risk of stopping fetal development remains, but it is already minimal compared to the initial stages. Symptoms may be vague or completely absent. Among the specific signs, the girl notes: lack of movement, decreased appetite. The most dangerous period is 16-18 weeks, after which the risk of miscarriage is reduced to almost zero.

There are many reasons for the pathology: hormonal disorders, poor lifestyle and genetic characteristics. To identify them, a serious and comprehensive examination of the body is required.

Premature placental abruption

A dangerous condition that can cause stomach pain. It occurs both in the early and late stages of pregnancy and is accompanied by severe spasms, intrauterine hypoxia and bleeding. Vaginal discharge does not occur in all cases. Upon examination, the doctor determines the tension of the uterus and the development of placental hematoma. In the absence of medical care, the fetus may die.

Among the most common causes of placental abruption are: short umbilical cord, trauma, hypertension, severe forms of gestosis.

Gynecological causes of abdominal pain in pregnant women are almost as common in frequency as other types of discomfort. And they require emergency medical care, as they are dangerous to the life of the child and mother.

Pathological non-obstetric pain

This group of disorders includes symptoms that are not directly related to the reproductive system:

inflammation of the genitourinary system – pyelonephritis or cystitis, in addition there are problems with urination and lower back pain;
genital infections - accompanied by inflammation of the genital organs, unpleasant discharge with a pungent odor;
inflammation of internal organs - kidneys, liver, stomach, intestines, often accompanied by fever and increased pain;
acute surgical conditions – intestinal obstruction, appendicitis.

Most often, women experience worsening chronic diseases or develop a urinary tract infection.

It is very difficult to distinguish symptoms of diseases not related to pregnancy or the reproductive system. They can have a huge number of reasons, so you cannot do without contacting a doctor if the signs of the disease increase.

The difference between pathological symptoms and physiological ones

The ability to listen to the nature of pain for a pregnant woman can be decisive in the matter of contacting a doctor. Medical care is usually not required (although examinations are not excluded if symptoms persist for a long time) in the following cases:

monotonous, moderate pain that goes away within 1-2 hours;
absence of acute spasms, cramping, cutting attacks;
after rest the symptoms go away;
the pain does not increase and is easily tolerated by the woman;
no brown, pink or red vaginal discharge;
no signs of digestive problems: vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, retention or frequent urination;
if you don’t want to endure the pain, a single dose of an antispasmodic, in the absence of contraindications, relieves symptoms for a long time.

In general, a woman with non-dangerous abdominal pain in the second trimester does not experience a deterioration in her health or weakness. There is no cold sweat, trembling, loss of consciousness, the pressure remains within normal limits. The heart rate is also maintained within acceptable limits.

Diagnostic methods

If stabbing, cutting and aching pain appears, the girl should contact a gynecologist to receive a referral for further tests and diagnostics. But this is only relevant in the absence of acute symptoms that require calling an ambulance.

To determine the causes of symptoms, the doctor collects anamnesis and prescribes laboratory tests: smear, blood and urine donation, and if gastrointestinal diseases are suspected, feces. In most cases, an ultrasound scan is recommended. Further examination may be specific, requiring special techniques. For example, measuring the fetal pulse rhythm, the state of amniotic fluid.

Pain Treatment Methods

After diagnosis, the doctor decides to prescribe medications only if the situation does not require emergency surgical intervention. Antispasmodic drugs are prescribed that can relieve uterine tone and pain: “No-Shpu”, “Papaverine”, and other drugs in the form of suppositories and tablets.

If a chronic pathology or acute infection is detected, other groups of medications are used: safe antibiotics, antiviral and antibacterial drugs. Preference is given to medications that have no contraindications for pregnant women. The exception is cases where lack of treatment can lead to the death of a woman.

The following methods of therapy and prevention help many pregnant patients to eliminate pain of a non-pathological nature:

reviewing nutrition and practicing the principles of healthy food consumption, eliminating harmful foods and undesirable food combinations;
complete cessation of smoking and alcohol, if this did not happen before conception;
lifestyle changes, daily walks and moderate physical activity using complexes recommended by the doctor;
the use of preventive bandages to support the abdomen is especially effective in case of poor muscle condition and divergence of the symphysis pubis.

The main condition for a healthy pregnancy without complications is a woman’s positive emotional state. During this period, it is important to protect yourself from stress, excessive emotional, physical and mental stress. In recent weeks, any movements and even household chores can cause the water to break.

With the onset of the second trimester of pregnancy, almost the “golden time” begins for the expectant mother: toxicosis is most likely a thing of the past, the tummy has become somewhat rounded, but not yet so much as to add clumsiness and difficulties to the woman. The second trimester of pregnancy, starting from the 13th week, becomes the most fertile period for the expectant mother: now you can walk in the fresh air to your heart's content, visit the pool or yoga classes, enjoy theater performances and reading books, without suffering from headaches and a constant feeling of nausea.

With each week, pregnancy becomes noticeable to others: a woman’s figure becomes rounder, her breasts increase in size. Experts advise you to slowly think about it, which is recommended to start wearing from about the 20th week of pregnancy in order to avoid stretch marks and to eliminate the threat of miscarriage. At the same time, you can slowly begin to prepare your breasts for feeding by daily rubbing the mammary glands with a terry towel and taking air baths.

The second trimester of pregnancy also marks one of the main periods of the baby’s intrauterine life: by the 16th week, the formation of the baby’s internal organs and the formation of the placenta are completed. So, from now on, the function of supplying oxygen and nutrients, as well as the responsibility to protect the child from the influence of many harmful substances and the penetration of infections, falls on the placenta.

Nausea in the second trimester of pregnancy

As a rule, nausea in the second trimester of pregnancy no longer bothers a woman - toxicosis with all the accompanying “delights” becomes an unpleasant memory of the early stages of pregnancy. By the second trimester, most pregnant women notice that nausea has disappeared and is replaced by increased appetite.

But, at the same time, we should not forget that each person’s body is unique, and each woman “tolerates” pregnancy differently. Therefore, it should not be surprising that some mothers, even with the onset of the second trimester of pregnancy, may complain of nausea, usually occurring in the morning, immediately after waking up, or as a reaction to irritating unpleasant odors.

The usual methods of “fighting” this unpleasant phenomenon are used: you can cope with morning sickness by drinking water with lemon or tea immediately after waking up and snacking on cookies or crackers, without even getting out of bed. You should still “look” for the most optimal foods, avoiding fatty foods. It is advisable to exclude all odors that provoke attacks of nausea - strong perfume, the aroma of pasties or fried onions (some women are “weak” for what).

In case of debilitating nausea with constant regular bouts of vomiting, you should still consult a doctor: this situation is considered a pathology and can pose a threat.

Discharge in the second trimester of pregnancy

If in the early stages vaginal discharge does not change radically either qualitatively or quantitatively, then the second trimester of pregnancy is usually characterized by a slight increase in discharge. At the same time, pregnancies acquire a somewhat whitish milky color, and are distinguished by an unexpressed, somewhat sour smell.

An increase in the intensity of discharge is a consequence of hormonal changes in the body, and you should be prepared for the fact that as the duration of pregnancy increases, the amount of discharge will also increase. If the discharge is not accompanied by itching and/or a burning sensation and does not change color, there is no need to worry. But you should be wary if:

curdled or thick white discharge appears in the second trimester of pregnancy, causing discomfort in the form of itching or burning. Most likely, you will have to deal with thrush, which must be treated to avoid transmitting the infection to the baby;
spotting and spotting appears. Perhaps they are provoked by erosion of the cervix, in addition, such discharge may signal the threat of miscarriage or premature birth (depending on the period);
The discharge changes color, acquiring a greenish, yellow tint or being “foamy.” Probably, we will talk about the addition of an infection;
The discharge is clear and has an unpleasant odor. There is a high risk of developing bacterial vaginosis;
The discharge is abundant, but transparent and does not have a pronounced unpleasant odor. Perhaps this indicates irritation from some influence (for example, as a reaction to panty liners, and then the situation can be changed by eliminating the irritant). Or there is leakage of amniotic fluid (this can be determined using an indicator test sold in a pharmacy, or during an examination).

Pain in the second trimester of pregnancy

The most common complaints of this period regarding painful sensations are pain in the lower back and pelvic area. Doctors explain such pain in the second trimester of pregnancy by the gradual enlargement of the uterus and, accordingly, the increasing size of the abdomen.

But there should not be any painful sensations in the stomach. Therefore, if you experience nagging pain in the abdomen, and even “reinforced” pain in the sacrum or hips, and even more so if there is bleeding, you should immediately consult a doctor - the risk of pregnancy failure is too great.

Heartburn can be a very unpleasant phenomenon in the second trimester of pregnancy - as a result of compression of the stomach by the growing uterus, and therefore the normal function of digestion is disrupted.

Again, due to the increase in size of the uterus and compression of the abdominal organs, constipation may develop. It is important to adhere to the correct diet and increase the amount of fiber in the diet; prunes, dried apricots and baked apples will also help cope with constipation. Constipation must be avoided, because constant constipation is not far from hemorrhoids, and this is much more serious and “painful” than simply the inability to go to the toilet “for the most part.”

In the second trimester of pregnancy, it is possible to experience cramps - painful involuntary muscle contractions in the calves and feet. This symptom may indicate a violation of mineral metabolism in the body and be caused by congestion in the legs. It is important to lead an active lifestyle, for joints and visiting the pool, doing foot massage and paying attention to the quality of nutrition. So, calcium, magnesium and vitamin E should be present in the diet in sufficient quantities.

Colds in the second trimester of pregnancy

In the second trimester, as throughout pregnancy, a woman is still vulnerable to all sorts of colds. But, fortunately, a cold in the second trimester of pregnancy no longer poses such a danger as in the early stages of pregnancy. And, nevertheless, it is necessary to treat colds, and always with the intervention of a doctor - most medications are still prohibited, and a cold, even if not on such a “scale,” can still cause great trouble.

So, at this stage, a cold can provoke the development of fetoplacental insufficiency, and due to dysfunction of the placenta, there is a high risk of fetal hypoxia and delayed fetal development. In addition, a cold in the second trimester of pregnancy can negatively affect the nervous system of the fetus, because right now it is actively developing.

If a woman catches a cold at the 14th week of pregnancy, the risk of miscarriage remains, in addition, disruption of the endocrine system is possible (its formation is now finishing). At 16-17 weeks of pregnancy, a cold can affect the formation of the baby’s bone tissue - active strengthening of the fetal bones lasts until the 18th week. A cold at 19-20 weeks of pregnancy is dangerous for a girl growing in her mother’s womb: during this period the baby’s eggs are formed, and viruses can have an extremely adverse effect on their number and functioning.

In connection with all of the above, treatment of colds in the second trimester of pregnancy should not be neglected. The treatment regimen should be discussed with a doctor; in any case, the woman is advised to have bed rest, drink plenty of fluids, gargle with herbal decoctions with the addition of soda, and rinse the nose with saline solution.

Temperature in the second trimester of pregnancy

But, unfortunately, colds are not always expressed only by mild ailments; in many cases, they are associated with a significant increase in temperature. It is believed that a noticeably elevated temperature in the second trimester of pregnancy does not have a negative effect on the fetus - to a certain extent, the negative effects are removed by the placental barrier, and the placenta also becomes an obstacle to the penetration of viruses and infections to the child. But, at the same time, it is necessary to undergo treatment, and it is obligatory to follow the treatment regimen prescribed by the doctor.

It should be remembered that in no case should you use Aspirin, Analgin, Nurofen to reduce the temperature. Only drugs based on are acceptable as an antipyretic, and then only after consultation with a specialist. At the same time, if the temperature does not exceed 37.8-38 degrees, it is advisable to cope with the temperature syndrome using folk remedies - using a decoction of linden blossom, tea with honey and raspberries, making cold compresses.

If a significantly elevated temperature is recorded without the accompanying symptoms of a cold such as cough, runny nose and malaise, it may be caused by much more serious diseases. Thus, high temperature can be accompanied by pyelonephritis, tuberculosis, herpes and some other diseases that are dangerous for the development and normal formation of the fetus. Therefore, if you have a fever without cold symptoms, you should definitely consult a therapist and gynecologist, and also, if necessary, get tested.

As for “low-grade” conditions within the range of 37.2-37.5 degrees. A slightly elevated temperature typical for the early period of pregnancy may persist into the second trimester. But, at the same time, such temperature readings in the second trimester of pregnancy can also be a sign of an ectopic position of the fetus. And that is why examinations and ultrasounds, the tests necessary at this time, also become so important.

Ultrasound in the second trimester of pregnancy

In the second trimester, the pregnant woman will undergo a second planned ultrasound, the optimal period for which is 20-24 weeks. By this time, an ultrasound examination no longer requires mandatory preparation and carrying out it with a full bladder: the existing amniotic fluid is sufficient.

During an ultrasound in the second trimester of pregnancy, a specialist assesses fetal development and the amount of amniotic fluid, determines the presence or absence of malformations of the child’s internal systems and organs, and clarifies the gestational age. If for some reason it was not diagnosed during the first planned ultrasound, the doctor will inform mom and dad about its presence now. In addition, an ultrasound in the second trimester of pregnancy can show the gender of the expected baby, however, the baby often turns his butt, which makes determination impossible.

The second planned ultrasound examination allows, among other things, to assess the condition of the placenta and umbilical cord, display data on the length of the cervix and the condition of the internal os.

Tests in the second trimester of pregnancy

In addition to ultrasound examination, tests are required in the second trimester of pregnancy in the form of a clinical blood test (mainly to determine hemoglobin levels) and a general urine test (to assess kidney function). In addition, a gynecological smear will be taken from the pregnant woman, and, if necessary, an analysis for TORCH infections.

In the second trimester of pregnancy, a so-called biochemical screening, or “triple test,” may be offered and carried out. This analysis involves a blood test for 3 main markers: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and estriol. The triple test allows you to identify possible malformations and chromosomal abnormalities of the fetus, disorders of the formation of the spinal cord, hydrocephalus and some other pathologies. This “combined” analysis can be indicated for those women who have already experienced miscarriage, or those who have relatives with congenital developmental pathologies. However, it should be borne in mind that in any case the diagnosis is not made based on the results of the analysis: the triple test is designed to determine whether the pregnant woman belongs to the risk group. The optimal period for biochemical screening is considered to be 16-18 weeks.

Signs of a frozen pregnancy in the second trimester

One of the biggest tragedies that can happen in the second trimester of pregnancy is fetal death. In principle, cessation of development and subsequent death of the fetus, which, in fact, is a frozen pregnancy, can happen at an earlier stage. The risk of freezing continues in the second trimester; the period of 16-18 weeks is considered the most dangerous in this regard.

The main signs that may indicate fading pregnancy are:

cessation or absence of fetal movements. The mother can feel the first movements of the baby by 18-20 weeks (usually, movements are felt earlier by multiparous women). If the baby suddenly stops “moving” in the tummy from time to time, you should immediately consult a doctor - a specialist will listen to the fetal heartbeat with a stethoscope, and if the readings are poor (dull or undetectable pulse), he will prescribe an additional ultrasound;
changes in the mammary glands may indicate a possible fading of pregnancy. Thus, a frozen pregnancy is characterized by a decrease in the size of the breasts, the mammary glands become soft, and the secretion of colostrum stops;
A specialist can diagnose fading pregnancy during a gynecological examination: by a slightly open cervix, cessation of uterine growth, thick brown discharge and a specific red-pink color of the vagina.

Nutrition in the second trimester of pregnancy

Nutrition in the second trimester of pregnancy still plays a key role for the normal formation of the fetus and the excellent well-being of the expectant mother. The main condition regarding the diet is that it must be balanced, providing the body of the woman and child in the required quantities with the necessary nutrients and beneficial substances.

Fish and lean meats (preferably boiled) are a must on mom’s table, which will become the main source of protein. Eggs, cottage cheese, dairy and fermented milk products will provide the calcium needed at this stage, which is necessary for the normal formation of the child’s bone tissue. Beef liver, buckwheat porridge, apples and tomato juice will supply the body with iron, the need for which increases day by day, and the lack of which can cause anemia. Vegetables and fruits in sufficient quantities in the diet are required - both as a source of vitamins and minerals, and as a “preventative” against constipation.

The quality of food is of great importance: during pregnancy it is better to avoid smoked meats, marinades, semi-finished products, and all kinds of store-bought ketchup, mayonnaise, and sauces. In addition, it is worth limiting the consumption of sweets and flour products to avoid weight gain and not provoke the development of diabetes during pregnancy.

And, of course, alcohol is strictly prohibited in the second trimester of pregnancy, as it has a high risk of having a negative impact on the development of the child. True, in some cases, experts allow red wine in small quantities, but only occasionally, always natural and unfortified, diluted half with water.

Vitamins in the second trimester of pregnancy

The need for valuable substances, including vitamins, during pregnancy increases approximately 1.5 times. But this does not mean that a woman should a priori take vitamins in the second trimester of pregnancy in the form of multivitamin preparations, absolutely not. Thus, the body of each person, doctors never tire of reminding, is individual, which means that the needs of each pregnant woman are individual. Moreover, according to one theory, the body “knows how” to independently regulate needs and “distribute” reserves.

If in the recent past many doctors almost universally prescribed courses of vitamins to pregnant women (and it is necessary to coordinate the intake of certain multivitamin preparations with a doctor), today many refuse this practice. It has been proven that uncontrolled administration of vitamin complexes during pregnancy very often leads to the birth of large children, who, moreover, are born during a cesarean section (a woman is not always able to give birth naturally to a fetus that is too large).

Therefore, after all, doctors place the main “emphasis” on providing the body with vitamins on a nutritious diet, especially if the pregnant woman carefully monitors her diet, the pregnancy did not occur in the winter-spring period and proceeds safely. Principles of proper nutrition in order to obtain the maximum amount of vitamins from food: the mandatory presence of proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, prebiotics and probiotics in the daily menu.

At the same time, it must be taken into account that some substances are additionally prescribed to all expectant mothers, regardless of age, living conditions and health status. These include folic acid and vitamin E - they are necessary to reduce the risk of possible abnormalities in the child’s nervous development. Additionally, taking folic acid reduces the likelihood of preeclampsia or pregnancy-related hypertension.

During pregnancy, including the second trimester, the need for B vitamins also increases (needed for the absorption of proteins, development of the nervous system and brain), vitamins A (responsible for the development of bone tissue, retina, skin), C ( reduces the risk of premature birth, is necessary for immunity), D (participates in the formation of bone tissue and the “laying in” of the baby’s teeth). But the advisability of additional intake of certain multivitamin preparations, combining different combinations of vitamins, should be determined by the doctor. It is possible that the need for vitamins can be met by adjusting the diet.

Sex in the second trimester of pregnancy

When the main worries about the consolidation of the fetus in the uterus and its normal development remain in the past, and with them all ailments and signs of early toxicosis disappear into oblivion, the woman quite logically “remembers” the pleasant moments of intimacy. This means that, together with the spouse who misses bodily pleasures, he wonders whether sex is possible and how safe it is in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Almost all doctors agree that in the absence of contraindications and the normal course of pregnancy, sex in the second trimester is not only allowed, but also necessary. So, sex life does not harm the unborn baby at all, but it gives mom and dad the opportunity to experience new sensations, get even closer and fully enjoy each other’s touches.

It is interesting that many women note that the middle of pregnancy is marked by a certain “burst” of sexual energy. Doctors explain the increasing need for physical love in this case by intense blood flow to the pelvic organs. Therefore, sex in the second trimester of pregnancy, if not prohibited by a doctor, can be practiced.

Pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy worries almost every expectant mother.

Basically, it is natural and does not threaten the health of the woman or the condition of the fetus.

However, in some cases, the appearance of such a symptom should alert you, especially if it causes severe discomfort, is acute, unbearable and is accompanied by additional alarming signals.

Causes of pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy

There are many understandable natural causes of pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy, and depending on the stage of pregnancy, they can be very diverse.

Pain in the lower abdomen as a sign of pregnancy

A few days after fertilization, the embryo enters the uterus and implants into its mucous membrane. This process is not always, but quite often accompanied by nagging pain, which goes away on its own after 2-3 days. In rare cases, pain may be accompanied by scanty, spotting bleeding that continues for 1-2 days.

Tubal or ovarian pregnancy can also cause discomfort. However, in this case the symptom does not go away, the pain progresses.

At the decisive moment, a tubal abortion or rupture of the fallopian tube occurs, accompanied by acute pain and a sharp deterioration in well-being. This condition is extremely dangerous for a woman’s life and requires immediate surgical intervention.

In order to prevent complications and not miss the development of an ectopic pregnancy, it is important to register on time and undergo all the necessary examinations confirming the normal location of the pregnancy.

Pain in the lower abdomen in the first trimester

At the very beginning of pregnancy, the level of sex hormones naturally increases in the body of the expectant mother. One of them, progesterone, affects the digestive system: it reduces the rate of food digestion.

All this is necessary so that the fetus receives more beneficial nutrients. However, during this same period, a woman’s food preferences change, her appetite increases, and toxicosis begins - all this together easily leads to indigestion, which is often manifested by frequent bloating, constipation and, of course, pain in the lower and central parts of the abdomen.

If your lower abdomen hurts in the second trimester

As the fetus grows, the enlarging uterus constantly displaces the organs of the small abdominal cavity, which also causes abdominal pain during pregnancy.

In this case, the main load in the second trimester falls on the intestines.

The uterus compresses its sections, preventing the normal passage of food.

As a result, the normal digestion process in the intestines is disrupted, constipation appears, and sometimes bloating. All this can cause pain.

In addition, in the first half of pregnancy, nagging pain can occur due to the rapid growth of the fetus and the enlargement of the uterus: the muscles of the uterus itself and the ligaments that hold it in its normal position are stretched.

Lower abdomen hurts in the third trimester

At the end of pregnancy, the uterus reaches a significant size. Its heaviness is felt, every movement of the fetus can cause discomfort in the abdomen.

At the same time, the uterus itself compresses the bladder, which stimulates frequent urination, and if it is sufficiently full, a stabbing pain may occur, as well as a pulling, sharp pain that radiates to the perineum and goes away after emptying the bladder.

Note that in the later stages of pregnancy, sharp pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness, a “stone belly,” may occur due to overstrain of the abdominal muscles or hypertonicity of the uterus.

To get rid of it, you need to rest for a few minutes. However, it is important not to confuse this symptom with contractions and the onset of labor: if the pain recurs with any frequency, you should urgently consult your doctor or go directly to the maternity hospital.

Pathologies causing pain during pregnancy

In some cases, both during late and early pregnancy, pain in the lower abdomen may be a symptom of the presence of pathology of the internal organs.

Pain that occurs in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, organs of the reproductive system, pancreas, blood vessels and musculoskeletal system, as well as the threat of miscarriage, can be localized or reflected in the iliac and groin areas.

It's a dull pain

Unpleasant, exhausting, aching pain in the lower abdominal cavity during pregnancy can occur for various reasons. The first and most common of them is exacerbation of chronic gynecological diseases.

This can be salpingitis, salpingoophoritis, adnexitis, that is, inflammation of the uterine appendages. In addition, a similar symptom can be caused by an ovarian cyst or cystoma, uterine fibroids and other pathological formations of the reproductive system that grow against the background of hormonal changes.

Aching pain during pregnancy may also indicate the presence of a threat of pregnancy, incorrect location of the placenta or its premature detachment, incipient abortion.

All these conditions are a serious threat to the life of the fetus and the health of the expectant mother, so the appearance of such a symptom should in no case be ignored.

Cutting pains

Most often, such pain occurs against the background of a natural slowdown in digestion processes and the appearance of constipation.

However, during pregnancy, the risk of onset or exacerbation of various diseases associated with digestion of the organs increases significantly: dysbacteriosis, appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, pancreatitis.

All these pathologies can cause acute, quite severe cutting or stabbing pain in the lower abdomen and almost never go away on their own, without the intervention of a doctor.

Sharp cutting pain in mid to late pregnancy may indicate the appearance of an inguinal hernia- a condition in which the abdominal muscles diverge or tear. In this case, the pain is acute and manifests itself with any tension or movement of the fetus. The condition is dangerous and requires mandatory treatment.

The second article is from the same category, but it contains information about abdominal pain on the left side,
We also hope you will be interested in how to properly treat the teeth of pregnant girls, full information is available at this link https://monrb.ru/zubnye-boli/zubnaya-bol-pri-beremennosti.html

Pain in the lower abdomen on the right

Pain associated with problems of intestinal digestion, acute or aggravated chronic appendicitis, as well as diseases of the right appendages of the uterus is often referred to this area. Much less often, pain occurs in the right groin area associated with compression or pathologies of the right ureter.

Pain in the left lower abdomen

Pain in the left groin during pregnancy often becomes one of the manifestations of eternal constipation and flatulence. Inflammation or formations on the right appendages of the uterus also often cause unpleasant nagging and sometimes sharp pain in this area.

In some cases, pain associated with varicose veins of the small pelvis and acute infection of the organs of the reproductive system radiates to the left groin area.

Treatment of lower abdominal pain during pregnancy

Pain is not a pathology, but only its consequence. That is why not a single doctor recommends getting rid of it on your own..

And this is especially true for pregnant women: having taken a painkiller pill and thus getting rid of unpleasant symptoms, they may not pay attention to the presence of a serious abnormality that can lead to disastrous consequences not only for the woman herself, but also for her unborn child.

Therefore, any ailments, incomprehensible symptoms, and especially pain during pregnancy should be a mandatory reason for an early trip to the gynecologist.