Pregnancy often brings various aches and pains as the body undergoes significant changes. While lower abdominal pain can be concerning, what feels like ovarian pain is usually due to normal physiological adjustments. These sensations are expected and typically do not indicate a serious problem.
Understanding Perceived Ovarian Pain in Pregnancy
In early pregnancy, the ovaries play a crucial role, primarily producing progesterone to support the uterine lining and the developing embryo. After the first trimester, typically around weeks 8-12, the placenta takes over progesterone production, and the ovaries become largely dormant in this function. For this reason, true ovarian pain originating directly from the ovaries themselves is less common after the initial weeks of pregnancy.
Pain felt in the general ovarian area is often referred pain from other lower abdominal and pelvic structures. These structures are stretching, growing, or adjusting to pregnancy. Understanding this distinction can help alleviate concern, as the discomfort is likely not directly from the ovaries.
Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
Many non-ovarian factors cause lower abdominal pain during pregnancy. These sensations are normal responses to the body’s adaptations.
Round Ligament Pain
Round ligament pain is a frequent cause of lower abdominal discomfort, often beginning in the second trimester. This pain occurs as the two round ligaments, which support the uterus by connecting it to the groin and lower abdominal wall, stretch to accommodate its expansion. The pain can be a brief, sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, often on one or both sides. Sudden movements like standing up quickly, coughing, sneezing, or rolling over in bed can trigger this pain.
Uterine Stretching and Growth
Uterine stretching and growth contribute to general abdominal aches. As the uterus expands to make room for the growing fetus, its muscular fibers lengthen. This can result in mild aches, twinges, or a vague discomfort in the lower abdomen, sometimes described as a cramping sensation similar to menstrual cramps. This is a normal physiological adjustment as the uterus accommodates the developing baby.
Digestive Issues
Digestive issues like constipation and gas are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that slow the digestive system. Progesterone, a hormone elevated during pregnancy, relaxes gastrointestinal muscles, making food pass through more slowly. This can lead to increased gas and bloating, causing cramping and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Iron supplements, often prescribed during pregnancy, can also worsen constipation.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “practice contractions,” are a source of abdominal discomfort, typically felt more often in the third trimester but can start as early as the second. These contractions feel like a tightening or squeezing sensation across the belly, making the abdomen feel firm or hard to the touch. They are usually irregular, last about 30 seconds to two minutes, and are uncomfortable but rarely painful. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks do not get stronger or closer together and often subside with a change in activity or position.
Ovarian Cysts
While less common, ovarian cysts can sometimes cause pain during pregnancy. The most frequent type is a corpus luteum cyst, which usually resolves on its own by the middle of the second trimester. However, if an ovarian cyst becomes large, bleeds, ruptures, or causes the ovary to twist (known as ovarian torsion), it can lead to pain. If a cyst ruptures, it can cause sudden, severe pain, fever, vomiting, or faintness.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause lower abdominal pain. UTIs are more common in pregnancy and can present with pain or burning during urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy, pink, red, or brown urine, and sometimes fever or chills. Any symptoms suggesting a UTI should be promptly addressed by a healthcare provider.
When to Seek Medical Care
While many abdominal pains during pregnancy are normal, certain signs indicate the need for immediate medical attention. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent abdominal pain that does not resolve with rest or a change in position. Pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding or spotting is a significant warning sign.
Other concerning symptoms include fever or chills, which could indicate an infection. Pain with difficulty or burning during urination, or changes in urine appearance (cloudy, pink, red, or brown), also warrants prompt medical evaluation. A sudden, sharp, or cramping pain not relieved by rest or activity should also be reported. Any concerns that feel “not right” or significantly different from typical pregnancy discomfort should prompt a call to your healthcare provider.
Tips for Managing Discomfort
Simple measures can help manage common pregnancy discomforts. Resting and finding comfortable positions can help alleviate mild abdominal pain; using pillows for support, especially when lying on your side, can reduce pressure.
Staying well-hydrated is important, as it helps prevent constipation and reduces bloating. Gentle movement or stretching, such as walking or prenatal yoga, can improve circulation and reduce tension.
Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the lower abdomen can soothe cramping and discomfort. Warm baths can also be relaxing and provide relief, ensuring the water temperature is warm but not excessively hot. Support garments, like maternity belts, can help lift and redistribute the weight of the growing belly, reducing pressure.
For constipation, dietary adjustments such as increasing fiber intake from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can be beneficial. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also aid digestion and reduce gas and bloating. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or if discomfort persists.