Lifted something heavy during pregnancy, stomach hurts in the early stages

Can a pregnant woman lift weights?

There is no definite answer to this question: some women simply cannot do without it if, for example, there is no man or loved ones nearby who can help bring a bag of groceries from the store. However, this does not always affect the condition of the mother in labor, and pregnancy proceeds easily even with such a load, and the child is born completely healthy.

Much depends on the physical condition of the expectant mother. If she has been involved in sports all her life or is accustomed to physical labor, her muscles are in good shape, and carrying weights does not cause any difficulty, the risk of unpleasant consequences is significantly reduced.

The woman’s well-being, her health, and doctor’s recommendations are also taken into account. If the pregnancy is difficult, there is a risk of miscarriage, in the past the woman has had miscarriages, frozen pregnancies, cesarean sections and other birth conditions, it is better to limit yourself as much as possible from the influence of negative factors, which is carrying heavy weights.

In other words, whether this will affect the course of pregnancy or not is unknown, but it is better to play it safe and refuse to lift weights during this already difficult period.

How much weight can pregnant women lift?

Experts recommend avoiding lifting objects that weigh more than 3 kg. For female athletes, the weight can be increased to 5-6 kg. Moreover, the closer to the date of birth, the less acceptable it is to lift heavy objects, even the permissible weight.

Therefore, mothers who already have a small child should be very careful. While expecting her second baby, the mother will have to give up lifting her firstborn in her arms.

If the woman herself is fragile, thin, short, then her own weight and the weight of the baby growing in her stomach is already a serious burden for her, so it is better for petite women to completely shift the responsibility of lifting and bringing something to her husband, friend or relatives.

Lifting weights during pregnancy: how much, when and how?

During pregnancy, a woman has to change her lifestyle and take better care of her own health. Expectant mothers pay much attention to proper nutrition, avoiding alcoholic beverages, smoking, and even wearing heels. But many people still have the habit of carrying full bags of groceries from the supermarket, moving furniture while cleaning, and picking up their firstborn in their arms for faster movement. However, lifting weights during pregnancy is highly discouraged; this can lead to miscarriage and other complications.

Of course, much is determined by the woman’s health and the characteristics of the process of bearing a child. But it's still not worth the risk. In situations that require heavy lifting, you need to seek help from others.

Is it possible to lift weights during pregnancy?

There is no clear answer to this question. There are women who lift weights throughout their entire pregnancy and ultimately give birth to healthy and strong babies on time. But, as a rule, this happens in cases where the body is accustomed to such stress.

If the expectant mother has been involved in weightlifting (powerlifting, bodybuilding, etc.) for several years and regularly performs exercises on weight machines and with free weights, then with the onset of pregnancy the risk of harming herself or the child will not be great.

The same applies to women living in rural areas and accustomed to certain physical activities: carrying full buckets, armfuls of firewood. However, it cannot be said that lifting weights is guaranteed not to harm these categories of pregnant women.

Lifting something heavy during pregnancy is not recommended for two reasons: it can cause a miscarriage and/or harm the health of the expectant mother. Her body is already experiencing severe overload, because the growing fetus and weight gain themselves become “heaviness”.

Therefore, all matters of this nature need to be postponed, delegated to others (husband, relatives) or canceled altogether. Remember: there is nothing more important than carrying your baby and maintaining your health.

Raised a severe pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy

When you don’t really need to lift something heavy during pregnancy, then, of course, this question doesn’t arise. However, sometimes the job or lifestyle of being pregnant involves lifting things that may not be so easy.

How to protect yourself, how to calculate the permissible weight? It turns out that there are criteria and boundaries that will help you sort this out. And it’s better to know in advance what to do if, after all, you overexerted yourself and now your stomach hurts. Let's figure it out together!

Is it possible to lift heavy things?

When you absolutely need to lift something difficult, first weigh the risk and benefit of this action, because the consequences can be dire and irreversible. But this, of course, is the worst case scenario, although less serious complications are far from pleasant.

• Naturally, not all things are considered heavy - anything that weighs less than 3 kg is considered relatively safe. It could be a handbag, a small bag of groceries, a favorite cat or a small backpack;
• If you were actively involved in sports before pregnancy and are well prepared physically: strong arms, toned abs, then, in principle, you can afford a little more weight. But still, 5 kg is the limit. More is dangerous, both for you and for the unborn child;
• Under no circumstances should you raise other children if you already have them, even toddlers!

So, don’t argue with your relatives, they are right - now it’s better not to strain your muscles with heavy weights, or sports, or sudden renovations of the nursery.

Take time to do this, especially in the 1st and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy, when your body is most vulnerable. Of course, this does not mean that in the 2nd trimester you can easily carry weights, since it is less dangerous. Read more about this period in the article 2nd trimester of pregnancy>>>.

Be careful, because sometimes it is difficult to determine the weight by eye and a pregnant woman lifts a package without thinking about its weight. Out of habit, it may seem easy to carry. And then complications arise and no one understands why.

The dangers of lifting weights during pregnancy

It seems that everyone knows that heavy weights are dangerous for pregnant women, but no one really knows why. And it is necessary to have an understanding of why you should not lift weights during pregnancy. Let's look at the points:

This is the worst thing that can happen during pregnancy, and if heavy lifting occurs in the 3rd trimester - premature birth.

If you have health problems, increased uterine tone, hypoxia, anemia, etc., it is better to refrain from experimenting with weights. Especially if you are being observed in a specialized center for high-risk pregnant women and the doctor puts on your chart at each visit: “threat of miscarriage.”

The belly is getting bigger, it’s becoming more and more difficult to carry, everything hurts anyway, and then there’s the heaviness. You can “break” your lower back, get a displacement of the vertebrae, and your back will simply hurt very badly. Do you need it?

Not only is the condition in general far from light and airy, but the abdomen makes it more difficult to carry out usual activities, but it also adds to the load on the body and the fetus. A hernia can also add to these problems.

Varicose veins and swelling are very unpleasant companions. In pregnant women, the elasticity of tissues, including veins, decreases.

If you also load your feet with weights and heels, then for the rest of your pregnancy you will have to lie with your feet up and smear them with medicinal gels. And this is not only unpleasant, but also physically uncomfortable. In general, there will be a lot of deterioration for your beloved legs. Find out how dangerous this can be from the article Heels during pregnancy>>>.

1. Prolapse of the uterus and internal organs;

In the early stages, this risks the baby not turning over correctly and having to have a caesarean section. And the prolapse of other organs will simply cause discomfort and various diseases.

Because of all this, the supply of oxygen to the fetus may be disrupted and, as a result, hypoxia (oxygen starvation), the consequences of which will affect after the birth of the child.

Rules for lifting weights

You take your pregnancy very seriously, and yet you still need to lift heavy things early or late in pregnancy, how can you do this in such a way as to minimize the risk? Follow the tips below:

1. Bend over not with your legs straight, but with your legs half-bent, your back straight;
2. Spread your legs to the sides, resting on your feet completely, not on your toes;
3. Stand up slowly, straightening your knees, without sudden movements;
4. If possible, take the weight with both hands;
5. Try to take the load more firmly, pressing it tightly towards you;
6. When transferring a load from one hand to another, try to maintain an even posture;
7. When carrying things, wear comfortable, preferably orthopedic shoes and a bandage that suits you (read the article on the topic: How to properly wear a bandage for pregnant women?>>>).

Best of all, try to avoid heavy lifting and be gentle with your posture. Take care of yourself and your baby!

Source: https://luxeth.ru/podnjala-tjazheloe-bolit-niz-zhivota-pri-beremennosti/

What happens in the body when lifting weights

Lifting weights affects the condition of almost the entire body. During pregnancy it is dangerous for three reasons:

1. Displacement of vertebral discs . Women's bones are more fragile and thinner than men's. This feature becomes more noticeable during pregnancy, when some of the calcium reaches the growing fetus. The spine experiences the greatest load during heavy lifting. Gradually, his discs begin to shift, and there is a risk of a hernia. When carrying a child, it is higher, since the load increases every month and reaches its maximum by childbirth. The condition is accompanied by severe back pain and limited mobility (turning, bending).
2. Varicose veins and other vascular disorders. Changes in the body of a pregnant woman lead to a decrease in the tone of the veins. This is partly due to hormonal changes, partly due to the growing fetus. Most of all, circulatory disorders are expressed in the lower part of the body - in the legs. Systematic lifting of weights leads to impaired blood flow, which increases the risk of developing varicose veins and deteriorates the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain, heart, and uterus.
3. Premature birth or miscarriage. Lifting weights is accompanied by tension in the abdominal muscles and an increase in intra-abdominal pressure. This leads to contraction of the uterus and expulsion of the fetus. The risk of such complications is especially high in women with hypertension. Read more about uterine hypertonicity during pregnancy →

What to do if your stomach hurts during pregnancy

Signs that everything is fine: The pain is not too severe, it goes away when you rest or change position, or after going to the toilet. Therefore, the algorithm will be like this:

1. Take a comfortable position.
2. Take a rest and try to relax. Give yourself half an hour during which you will be busy finding a comfortable position.
3. Think about what could have caused the pain: remember what you ate and the last time you went to the toilet.
4. Check to see if you have any suspicious vaginal discharge.

When to call an ambulance

1. For any bleeding from the vagina due to abdominal pain.
2. If you experience regular contractions or attacks of pain.
3. If the pain intensifies and does not go away after 30–60 minutes, and you have rested.

When to go to the doctor

1. For any unusual vaginal discharge.
2. If you feel pain when urinating.
3. If you feel pain in the lower back.

Why does your stomach hurt during pregnancy?

Firstly, your stomach can hurt for the most trivial reasons that have nothing to do with pregnancy: you ate something wrong, or ate too much, or caught a mild infection, or you just have dyspepsia (indigestion). Maybe you have untreated gynecological diseases - these are all those diseases that appeared before pregnancy and independently of it.

Secondly, during pregnancy the risk of constipation increases, which can also cause stomach pain. So you need to carefully monitor your diet and eat more fiber (that is, fresh fruits and vegetables) to ensure regular bowel movements. If the diet does not help, you need to use laxatives, which are allowed for pregnant women. For example, lactulose syrup or regular glycerin suppositories.

Thirdly, there are specific causes of pain that are associated specifically with the new position. And they can be divided into two large groups: non-dangerous and dangerous.

When abdominal pain is not dangerous

Pregnancy rearranges many processes in a woman’s body. The changes are concentrated in the abdominal area and sometimes cause pain.

Growing pains

As the fetus increases in size, the uterus stretches, which in itself can be unpleasant. But along with the uterus, the ligaments that support it also stretch. Some people are lucky enough not to feel anything like this for the entire nine months, while others have to constantly look for a comfortable position in the second half of pregnancy, when the fetus becomes large.

Moving organs

The uterus grows, occupies the abdominal cavity, and the rest of the organs have to move. This movement can also cause pain and discomfort in different parts of the abdomen.

Training contractions

They appear closer to childbirth, in the third trimester. With them, the cervix does not open, and pregnancy is not in danger. They are distinguished from real contractions by strength (training ones are quite soft) and regularity. Real contractions intensify and become more frequent, but training contractions come and go as they please.

When is abdominal pain most dangerous during pregnancy?

Dangerous cases are those that threaten the fetus or the pregnant woman. But, as a rule, they both threaten.

Ectopic pregnancy

When the test shows two lines, an ultrasound has not yet been performed, and the stomach suddenly and unbearably hurts, you need to go to the hospital as quickly as possible. Sharp pain early in pregnancy may be an indicator of an ectopic pregnancy.

Normally, the egg is fertilized while it is in the fallopian tube. Already in fertilized form, it “swims” to the uterus and there attaches itself to its wall. Sometimes this process goes wrong and the fertilized cell attaches directly to the wall of the fallopian tube. But the tube cannot replace the uterus: it simply does not know how to stretch like that.

And when the embryo becomes too large for the tube, it ruptures, causing internal bleeding. This is a dangerous condition that requires immediate surgery. In this case, it is very difficult to keep the fallopian tube intact; it may have to be removed.

Therefore, do not refuse ultrasound in the early stages.

The procedure helps to determine whether the fertilized egg is located correctly, and, if an ectopic pregnancy is detected, to perform the operation less traumaticly, preserving the functions of the fallopian tube.

Miscarriage

A miscarriage is the spontaneous termination of pregnancy. It can have a lot of reasons, ranging from fetal non-viability to unexplained cases. One way or another, only a doctor can prescribe treatment, so if the main symptoms of a miscarriage are pain and bleeding, you must urgently call an ambulance.

A miscarriage can happen in any trimester. Only after the 24th week is it called premature birth. And the closer to childbirth, especially after the 34th week, the higher the chances that everything will end successfully for both the mother and the fetus.

Why do miscarriages happen →

Placental abruption

The placenta is a temporary organ that connects the fetus to the uterus. It is through the placenta that the fetus receives everything it needs for growth. Normally, the placenta fits tightly to the uterus and is separated only after birth. But sometimes partial or complete placental abruption occurs earlier.

This condition causes severe pain and can be dangerous for both the fetus and the mother. There is only one salvation - call an ambulance if the abdominal pain does not go away after resting and changing position. Bleeding during detachment is internal and easy to miss. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek medical help during pregnancy.

Appendicitis

In pregnant women, it is rare, but the appendix becomes inflamed - in about one in a thousand cases. Perhaps the movement of internal organs is to blame.

The danger is that an inflamed appendix is ​​difficult to diagnose. For example, if the uterus “pushes” the process of the cecum back. Appendicitis noticed in time, as a rule, does not pose a threat to pregnancy. Surgery and general anesthesia, of course, are not particularly beneficial for the fetus, but they do not mean that there will be anything wrong with its further development.

How to recognize and treat appendicitis →

Source: https://Lifehacker.ru/bolit-zhivot-pri-beremennosti/

How to lift weights correctly?

If you still have to lift weights during pregnancy, you need to do it correctly:

• when bending over, bend your knees, keep your body straight with a slight arch in the lower back;
• lift heavy things using a good grip with your hand and straightening your knees, without jerking, straighten your body slowly;
• feet should be placed at a comfortable width, fully resting on the floor, and comfortable shoes should be worn;
• if possible, the load should be evenly distributed in both hands, this will keep the spine straight;
• When carrying heavy objects, keep your body as straight as possible, do not twist or bend;
• wear a bandage that allows you to distribute the load correctly over the entire body; more about wearing a bandage during pregnancy→

How to lift heavy objects correctly?

If it is necessary to lift the weight of a pregnant woman, the following rules should be followed:

• when you need to lift something, you should not bend over, but squat;
• support when lifting weights must be on the entire foot (heels are prohibited);
• take the load with both hands;
• walk with the load straight, with a straight back;
• do not make sudden movements;
• wear a bandage (see also: how to properly put on a bandage for pregnant women?).

A woman should remember her situation and take care of herself both in the first and second trimester, and especially in the third. Relatives should also try to do everything so that the expectant mother does not take risks, rests longer and is in a good mood. The confidence that there are people nearby who can be trusted with business will allow a woman to calmly do things that will not cause her harm.

READ ALSO: Can pregnant women fly on an airplane in the second trimester?

It’s worth finding out how much weight you can lift during pregnancy, how this fact is affected by the girl’s height, and what mothers should remember after a caesarean section.

How much weight can pregnant women lift?

Pregnant women can lift objects weighing up to 3 kg. For athletes and women accustomed to physical labor, this figure can be increased to 5-6 kg.

It follows from this that it is impossible to carry even a one-year-old child in this position. After all, in addition to the fact that his average weight is 8-10 kg, the baby is also very active, he can accidentally kick his mother in the stomach or put pressure on him while getting down from his arms.

It is important to remember that your own weight and a growing fetus are also burdens that a woman carries every day. Therefore, the longer the pregnancy, the less weight you can lift.

Consequences

The most serious consequence of lifting weights during pregnancy is its termination. The 1st and 3rd trimesters are especially dangerous in this regard. In the early stages, uterine hypertonicity often develops and the risk of miscarriage is present even at rest; lifting weights significantly increases it.

In the later stages, the body gradually begins to prepare for the upcoming birth, the uterus descends and physical activity can provoke the premature birth of the child. Therefore, before the 12th and from the 22nd week you need to be especially careful.

If you lift weights during pregnancy, the likelihood of diseases such as varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, heart failure, and vertebral displacement increases. Problems with blood supply to internal organs affect the condition of the fetus: lack of oxygen leads to hypoxia (oxygen starvation) and intrauterine growth retardation.

Lifting something heavy during pregnancy is highly discouraged. Permitted safe weight – 3 kg . If it is exceeded, there is a risk of miscarriage, premature birth, development of varicose veins and displacement of spinal discs. At risk are women with hypertonicity and uterine prolapse, as well as poorly developed muscles.

It is most dangerous to lift heavy objects in the 1st and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. If after exercise there is pain in the lower abdomen or bleeding, you must urgently call an ambulance.

Author: Olga Khanova, doctor, especially for Mama66.ru

I lifted something heavy during pregnancy: what to do? || Is it possible to lift weights during pregnancy?

When considering the question of how many kg a pregnant woman can lift, it is necessary to understand why it is generally not recommended for pregnant women to lift weights. What exactly is the danger?

The fact is that any excessive physical activity can lead to a miscarriage. Yes, this does not always happen and not for everyone, but you should be careful. Pregnant women who have been diagnosed with high uterine tone, prolapse of this organ, or whose muscles are not very developed are at risk.

How many kg can a pregnant woman who is not at risk lift? Can she carry weights? Any doctor will answer the last question in the negative. After all, when lifting heavy objects, you may encounter other dangers.

While carrying a baby, a woman’s joints and her spine are subject to increased stress, so lifting something heavy is not recommended.

If you lift a heavy object incorrectly, you can provoke the appearance of a vertebral hernia, radiculitis or osteochondrosis.

Lifting heavy objects also increases the risk of developing varicose veins. Moreover, considering that the body weight of most pregnant women increases significantly. Extra weight means extra stress on your legs. To prevent the veins from dilating, a pregnant woman should take regular walks, unless there are contraindications.

Is it possible to lift heavy things?

The interesting position of a woman in itself implies a large number of prohibitions. This is not to say that lifting weighty objects for the entire 9 months is strictly prohibited. Rather undesirable than absolutely contraindicated. Many women spent the entire term, without sparing themselves, making repairs, lifting their youngest child in their arms, bringing bags from the store and giving birth without any problems.

Weights that a pregnant woman has to lift at work

If a woman has to lift weights as part of her job, she should know that there are certain rules that must be followed. Below you will learn about them, and also find out how much weight pregnant women can lift during the working day. So:

• It is strictly unacceptable to lift loads from the floor above your shoulders.
• Heavy objects can be carried from place to place, but no further than 5 meters.
• The weight of the cargo should not exceed 1.25 kilograms. At the same time, you can lift no more than 60 kilograms within an hour.
• During an eight-hour working day, a pregnant woman should not lift more than 480 kilograms. This figure includes tare weight.

Lifting and moving heavy loads is strictly prohibited. The employer must provide the woman with another, more health-friendly job.

Harm to health

There are three reasons why you should not lift weights during pregnancy:

1. Problems with the spine. While carrying a child, the load on the spine increases every week. Bones become brittle and gradually thin out as a result of some of the mother's calcium being transferred to the growing fetus. Lifting weights puts additional stress on the spine, which is loaded with pregnancy. The discs gradually begin to shift and there is a possibility of developing an intervertebral hernia.
2. Vascular disorders. Blood circulation in the lower extremities of a pregnant woman is much lower than that of a woman in her normal state. The growth of the fetus and the enlargement of the uterus entails an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which causes insufficiency of the functions of the venous valves, stagnation of blood in the veins of the lower extremities and stretching of their walls. A serious disease begins to develop - varicose veins. The main sign of its appearance is swelling. Lifting heavy objects further increases intra-abdominal pressure and the likelihood of developing this disease increases significantly. If a pregnant woman already has varicose veins, then its course accelerates and gets worse.
3. Provocation of miscarriage and premature birth. This consequence is the most serious and dangerous. Lifting weights increases abdominal muscle tension and increases intra-abdominal pressure. These two factors intensify the contraction of the muscles of the uterus and lead to the expulsion of the fetus from it. The first and third trimesters of pregnancy are considered extremely dangerous.

We suggest you familiarize yourself with Fruits and berries during pregnancy

In the early stages of gestation (up to 12 weeks), uterine hypertonicity often develops, during which the risk of miscarriage increases significantly. In this condition, it is extremely important to take care of yourself, because with hypertonicity, even walking is dangerous, not to mention heavy lifting.

In late pregnancy (from 22 weeks), a woman’s body gradually prepares for the upcoming process of childbirth. The stomach drops and the load increases. Additional heaviness in the third trimester can push the onset of labor closer and the baby will be born ahead of time.

How to lift weights correctly?

It is important to know not only how many kg a pregnant woman can lift, but also to understand how to lift correctly. After all, some ladies even in position have to do this. So, to lift a load, you need to bend over, bend your knees, and keep your body straight, bending your back a little.

Lifting should be done using a firm grip with your hands and keeping your knees aligned. You cannot rise with jerks. You need to do everything slowly, with your legs apart, so as not to feel discomfort.

To protect yourself from injury, you need to wear comfortable shoes, distribute the load between two hands (if possible), and avoid bending.

A bandage also comes to the rescue; it will distribute the load evenly.

Rules for lifting weights

The most effective rule for lifting weights during pregnancy is no weights. The maximum permitted weight is 3 kg. And this is in both hands, and not in each, as many people mistakenly believe. But, if the situation requires “multi-kilogram” manipulation, then you need to listen to several tips:

1. To lift an object with a large weight, you need to squat so that the distance between your legs is at least 50 cm, your back remains straight, and your body is not tilted.
2. If possible, it is necessary to distribute the total weight between two hands so that the load on each half of the body is even.
3. It is important to control your movements. Sharp turns, jerks and lifts are strictly contraindicated for the expectant mother.
4. As the pregnant belly begins to grow, it is necessary to wear a support bandage. It maintains the normal musculoskeletal system, protects against overload and serves as protection against miscarriage.

We suggest you read: How long is bronchitis in children treated with antibiotics?

What happens in the body if you exceed the norm by weight?

Many representatives of the fair sex carry heavy weights during pregnancy. We learned above how much weight you can lift. Now we need to figure out what happens in the body when a girl lifts loads above the permissible norm. Overload causes:

• Displacement of spinal discs. Women have fragile bones, not the same as men's. This is especially noticeable during pregnancy, when there is a lack of calcium in the body. When lifting loads, a strong load is placed on the spine, so over time the discs become displaced and a hernia may occur.
• Varicose veins and other similar disorders. The fact is that during pregnancy, the tone of a woman’s veins decreases due to hormonal changes. In addition, the situation is affected by the growing fetus. The most pronounced circulatory disorders are observed in the legs and lower torso. When lifting heavy objects, blood flow is disrupted, leading to varicose veins and oxygen deficiency.
• Premature birth or spontaneous abortion. When lifting weights, the abdominal muscles tense and intra-abdominal pressure increases. The uterus can contract and expel the fetus, especially if a woman is diagnosed with hypertension.

It is important not to think about how many kg a pregnant woman can lift, but to take care of yourself.

Alarming symptoms

Failure to lift weights correctly can lead to noticeable changes in how you feel. If a woman lifted something heavy during pregnancy, and a sharp jerk or too heavy load caused pain in the lower abdomen and even bleeding, then this should attract special attention. Such signs are a very bad sign and require urgent medical attention.

Consequences after lifting weights

The most serious consequence of lifting heavy things is termination of pregnancy. That is why every woman should know how much weight she is allowed to lift.

Doctors consider the first and last trimesters to be the most dangerous period. In the early stages, uterine hypertonicity is observed very often in pregnant women, so even at rest there is a risk of spontaneous miscarriage.

And when lifting something heavy, the danger increases significantly.

In the last trimester, a woman’s body prepares for the birth of a baby. The uterus prolapses, and therefore any physical activity can lead to premature birth. That is why a woman should especially take care of herself before the 12th and after the 22nd week. Knowing how many kilograms you can lift during pregnancy will help here; it will help you not exceed the norm.

Lifting heavy objects during pregnancy can lead to diseases such as heart failure, vertebral displacement, varicose veins, and thrombophlebitis. In addition, the unborn child also suffers, because he lacks oxygen and hypoxia occurs. As a result, intrauterine growth retardation may occur.

Source: https://Gikonda.ru/mozhno-vremya-beremennosti-podnimat-tyazhesti/

How much weight can you lift during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is divided into normal and with complications. The previous way of life to which the girl is accustomed will have to be changed somewhat. Its correction will depend on the physiological characteristics of the pregnant woman.

Early stages without pathologies

A few weeks after conception, a woman’s body begins careful preparation for the upcoming birth. The daily routine remains the same: as before, you need to go to work, clean the apartment, cook, take care of older children. Do not ignore the gynecologist’s warning that it is better not to carry heavy weights, because the life and health of the unborn baby depends on it.

Causes of nagging pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy

Every woman carrying a child needs to be able to recognize the body's signals. For example, the most common problem is nagging pain in the lower abdomen during pregnancy.

There can be many reasons for sudden pain. Some require immediate hospitalization, others are physiological in nature and do not require permission.

Why does the lower abdomen feel tight during pregnancy?

First, let's look at the physiological causes of pain. After a woman has noted that her lower abdomen is tight during pregnancy, but other than this indicator there are no accompanying symptoms, the reasons may be:

• Stress, anxiety, stress on the nervous system
• Increased circulating blood volume
• Overstrain of the uterine ligaments
• Physical exercise

Mild pain in the lower abdomen

In stressful situations and excessive stress on the nervous system, a pregnant woman begins to feel tightness in her lower abdomen. This aspect has a direct relationship with mental stress. Perhaps you take the events happening around you too close to your heart.

To solve the problem, you need to take motherwort tincture, lie down on your back, and place a blanket or pillow under your feet.

With an elevated leg position, blood flow to the brain increases, which will have a positive effect on gas exchange in tissues, blood vessels will dilate, and blood pressure will normalize.

Motherwort tincture has a sedative (calming) effect on the nervous system and the human body.

With an increase in the volume of circulating blood, it can not only pull the lower abdomen. Very often, pregnant women lose consciousness, which is associated with an increased load on the cardiovascular system and a drop in blood pressure parameters. This is a physiological process that does not require urgent help. Of course, if it doesn't reach the point of fainting.

Otherwise, it is necessary to provide emergency care to the pregnant woman. Lay the patient on her back with her legs elevated, increase the access to fresh air, unfasten her clothes in the neck area and bring cotton wool soaked in ammonia to her nose.

The uterine ligaments support the uterus in a suspended state. During the period of bearing a child, the uterus increases in size, putting stress on the ligaments. This process is physiological. There is only one treatment - if unpleasant sensations occur, you should change your body position. You can ask your family to massage your legs to relieve nagging pain in the lower abdomen.

After lifting weights, many women note that their lower abdomen begins to pull. Physical activity is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy. If the discomfort is not intense and is not accompanied by dizziness and bleeding, the problem can be cured with rest.

When to sound the alarm

If a woman notices that, in addition to pulling the lower abdomen during pregnancy, there are other symptoms, it is necessary to seek help as soon as possible. In what cases is specialist intervention necessary?

So, you noticed that there is a tugging in the lower abdomen and this is accompanied by:

• Severe lower back pain
• Nausea, dizziness
• Painful urination
• Stitching pain in the anus
• Bloody discharge

emergency assistance must be called immediately. If at least one of the above symptoms is present, you cannot hesitate.

Diseases of the genitourinary system

If a woman notices severe pain in the lower back, this may be a signal of an inflammatory process in the kidneys. During the period of bearing a child, compression of the abdominal organs occurs due to the enlargement of the uterus. With prolonged compression of the kidneys, the normal functioning of the organs and stagnation of urine occurs. As a result, pyelonephritis develops.

The disease is accompanied by fever, malaise and weakness. For diagnosis, it is necessary to take a urine test according to Nechiporenko. It's not difficult to pass it on. It is necessary to collect an average portion of urine for analysis.

If a pregnant woman feels pain in her lower abdomen and at the same time experiences a frequent urge to urinate, this may be a manifestation of cystitis. In this case, at the end of urination there is pain in the lower abdomen. Treatment is selected by a urologist. The causative agent of the disease is bacteria that enter the bladder through the urethra through the ascending route. The provoking factor is hypothermia.

Ectopic pregnancy and placental abruption

Ectopic pregnancy occurs in women with obstruction or congenital underdevelopment of the fallopian tubes, the presence of adhesions, inflammation that could occur after an abortion and other reasons. In this case, the fertilized egg attaches to the fallopian tube. The egg develops, the tube increases in size, which eventually leads to its rupture.

Such a pregnancy cannot be saved, so it is important to contact an antenatal clinic as soon as possible in order to terminate it in the safest and most gentle way. The main symptom of an ectopic pregnancy is nagging pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, radiating to the anus. Nausea, vomiting and general malaise are often associated. Such a pregnancy is dangerous due to tubal rupture and bleeding.

An alarming signal of the normal course of pregnancy is nagging pain in the abdomen and bloody discharge.

Spotting lasting up to 3 days, which occurs in the early stages of pregnancy, is considered normal. But if the blood is scarlet and there is a strong pull in the lower abdomen, hospitalization is necessary.

These manifestations may be a symptom of an incipient miscarriage and detachment of a normally located placenta.

If your stomach feels tight during pregnancy from 30 to 40 weeks and the pain is cramping and periodic, this is a symptom of the onset of labor. Normally, term labor occurs between 37 and 42 weeks.

Contractions gradually increase in intensity, become longer, and the time between them decreases.

During the normal course of labor, amniotic fluid is discharged, but often the process of childbirth begins with bloody discharge and nagging pain in the lower abdomen or lumbar region.

In this case, you can’t hesitate! Urgently to the maternity hospital! If the due date has not yet approached, but the woman notices cramping pain and discharge or leakage of amniotic fluid, this is a sign that premature labor has begun.

A child born prematurely is under close medical supervision. To maintain vital signs, the baby is placed in an incubator.

All conditions are created there (temperature, humidity, oxygen supply) for nursing a premature baby.

Digestive system diseases

A pregnant woman may experience tightness in the lower abdomen due to pathology of the digestive system.

Among them:

• Appendicitis
• Stomach or intestinal upset
• Pancreatitis

With appendicitis, a pregnant woman feels pain in her lower abdomen and a stabbing sensation on her right side. In addition, vomiting, nausea and dizziness occur. Appendicitis very often worsens during pregnancy.

This is due to compression of the process of the cecum. When blood circulation is impaired, inflammation of the appendix occurs. Treatment is surgical. Attacks of appendicitis cannot be ignored, because...

this can lead to rupture of the process and the development of peritonitis.

Flatulence, bloating, diarrhea and constipation are faithful companions of a pregnant woman. With increased gas formation in the intestines, a nagging pain occurs in the lower abdomen. In this case, it is necessary to adhere to a balanced diet and avoid taking foods that increase gas formation.

Pancreatitis in pregnant women is associated with dietary errors. You should avoid eating fatty, smoked, spicy and salty foods. To improve the functioning of the pancreas, it is necessary to take enzymes.

It is worth remembering that pain is the body’s response to an irritant or provoking factor. During a normal pregnancy, there should not be any particular discomfort.

Source: https://PrichinaBoli.ru/zhivot/prichiny-vozniknoveniya-tyanushhix-bolej-vnizu-zhivota-pri-beremennosti.html

How to correctly calculate the weight allowed for lifting

Regardless of the height of the expectant mother, lifting a load of no more than 3 kg during pregnancy is allowed.

In 9 months, thin women with a height of up to 160 cm can gain about 15 kg during the entire pregnancy. Pregnant women of tall height and average build should gain from 6 to 12 kg. As you can see, during the entire pregnancy a woman can gain quite a lot of kilograms, which is an additional burden on the body, in particular on the spine, legs and internal organs.

Carrying 6 to 15 kg that is not your own weight is very difficult, so do not overwork yourself and do not lift heavy objects. Always remember what consequences this entails.

Consequences for the baby of lifting weights during pregnancy

The most tragic consequence is the loss of a child. The first and third trimesters are especially at risk for this development.

The first trimester is considered dangerous due to hypertonicity of the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage even without unnecessary stress. In the later stages, the uterus drops, and any excessive load can lead to premature birth.

Another negative consequence of heavy lifting for a child is developmental delay.

Lifting heavy weights can have negative consequences for a mother's health:

• displacement of the vertebrae;
• development of varicose veins;
• the appearance of heart failure.

Each expectant mother must decide for herself what she wants more: to give birth to a healthy child or to torment herself with remorse all her life. Do not lift more than allowed weight. Let the cleaning not be done at that moment, the husband will bring groceries from the store, and the grandmother will look after the older children. There is no point in risking the life of an unborn baby.

Heaviness in the abdomen during pregnancy in the early and late stages of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters

Heaviness in the abdomen during pregnancy is a symptom familiar to every mother. From the first weeks after conception, many people learn what toxicosis is and feel discomfort in the abdominal area. You should not always worry and run to consult a doctor. In most cases this is normal.

Causes

The feeling of heaviness in the abdomen can be a purely physiological process or a manifestation of various pathologies.

The following reasons for this symptom can be identified:

• toxicosis;
• poor nutrition;
• placental abruption;
• intestinal obstruction;
• exacerbation;
• ectopic pregnancy.

Most often, heaviness in the abdomen in a pregnant woman is a sign of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. This can usually be gastritis. In this case, in addition to the characteristic severity, heartburn and belching will be noted. The pain will always get worse after eating.

Inflammation of the intestinal mucosa also affects the stomach. In combination with heaviness, bowel irregularities such as constipation, as well as severe bloating, will be noted. Typically, pregnant women suffering from this condition do not eat properly.

Physiological severity is not accompanied by severe pain. If bleeding, severe pain and other signs of obstetric pathology are still observed, you should seek help from specialists.

In the early stages

As a sign of pregnancy, this symptom may appear in the first weeks. This is how toxicosis can manifest itself. Also, in the area of ​​the uterus, against the background of its active growth in the first trimester, heaviness will be noted. The most important thing is that all this occurs without pain. In this case, you don't need to do anything.

If the pain and heaviness in a pregnant woman is constant and appeared even before the delay, this may indicate the presence of complications and requires immediate consultation with a doctor.

First trimester

This is considered normal

As soon as a child is conceived and pregnancy begins, serious changes in the woman’s body begin.

Thus, the following changes in hormonal levels are noted:

• progesterone levels increase;
• the formation of estrogen increases;
• human chorionic gonadotropin appears;
• production increases;
• the concentration of motilin decreases.

All these processes are necessary for the normal course of pregnancy. These hormones affect not only the uterus, but also other internal organs. Thus, the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract changes greatly.

All this leads to disruption of food digestion, so after eating there is a characteristic heaviness and feeling of pressure in the abdomen.

Disturbances in the tone of the gastrointestinal tract are not the only cause of heaviness.

If symptoms are felt not only after eating, but also at any time, even late in the evening, this may indicate a number of diseases.

5 week

At the 5th week of pregnancy, the embryo has just begun to develop, but its presence can already be confirmed by a laboratory method.

New sensations include the following:

• breast swelling;
• taste disturbance;
• change in character;
• nausea;
• heaviness in the stomach.

Most of these symptoms are signs of toxicosis. Manifestations are not observed in all pregnant women. If the severity is accompanied by bloody discharge, you should immediately seek help from a specialist.

week 6

Having a tight stomach this week shouldn't be surprising. Other manifestations include increased frequency of urination, against the background of increased pressure on the bladder. The risk of developing urinary tract infections increases. Otherwise, nothing special happens.

week 7

At this time, toxicosis intensifies, which means the severity becomes stronger. Nausea may increase. The main thing in this case is to pay attention to pain and bleeding. If you have such a symptom, there is a risk of miscarriage, so you should consult a doctor immediately. Normally, the discharge should be light in color and not have an unpleasant odor.

8 week

Toxicosis continues, no serious changes are noted. Urination becomes more frequent, but if it is accompanied by pain, this may indicate the presence of cystitis. In this case, you need to consult a doctor.

Week 9

See a doctor when pain occurs

Manifestations of toxicosis begin to subside. The pulling sensations in the abdomen remain, but their localization shifts closer to the groin area. If this is accompanied by severe spasmodic pain, you should immediately consult a doctor.

10 week

The main thing to remember during this period is discharge from the genital tract. They may exist, but if their color changes, it is better to be examined, since this may indicate other inflammatory diseases. Also at week 10, due to pronounced looseness of the uterus, bleeding may appear. It is better to consult a doctor, but most often this is the norm.

11 week

The uterus enlarges even more. This leads to increased heaviness in the abdominal area. To reduce the symptoms of pregnancy, it is recommended to do special exercises. The risk of miscarriage becomes much lower, but the discharge and pain that the expectant mother feels are reasons to consult a doctor.

12 week

The last seven days of the first trimester are no different. Usually, during this period, the woman completely gets used to the heaviness and practically does not notice it. The first ultrasound is performed, which can detect fetal developmental disorders. If serious complaints occur, you should visit a specialist.

Second trimester

The feeling of heaviness and fullness gradually fades into the background. Active growth of the uterus leads to pain in the lower abdomen. The manifestations of extragenital diseases are increasing. It is important to pay attention to symptoms. If the pain intensifies and the heaviness in the abdomen persists, you should consult a doctor.

Week 13

The main manifestation that appears during this period is stool retention. Against the background of a significant enlargement of the uterus, there is pressure on the liver and a decrease in intestinal tone. This leads to constipation. It is not recommended to take laxatives during pregnancy. Special gymnastics will help alleviate the condition. Heaviness in the abdomen may also persist.

Week 14

Manifestations come to the fore. A lot of nutrients are spent on the development of the fetus, so the mother herself may not have enough of them. There is often a lack of vitamin C, bleeding gums and constant fatigue. With a lack of vitamin A, the condition of the skin worsens, and hair and nails become brittle. The severity may persist until the end of pregnancy.

Week 15

Carefully! Hormonal changes come to the fore. Manifestations from the gastrointestinal tract may also intensify. Constipation does not go away. In addition to special gymnastics, you can add fiber to your diet. This will make the situation a little easier. Another problem of this period is pronounced. Against this background, there is a lack of oxygen in both the mother and the fetus.

Week 16

A feature of this period is the appearance of fetal motor activity. This does not happen for everyone. For most it starts at 20 weeks. Early motor activity is typical for multiparous women. The belly increases in size, so the heaviness intensifies and it becomes harder to do exercises. You should focus on proper nutrition. This will make the manifestations easier.

Week 17

Little advice for women

Pregnant women resort to, which eases the load on the back. The stomach becomes heavier and it becomes more difficult to walk. Skin pigmentation is disrupted. The growth of the uterus puts a lot of stress on the liver, so if you don't start eating smaller meals, it can cause serious problems with the intestines. It is not recommended to sleep on your side, otherwise the heaviness in your stomach may increase.

Week 18

It is already possible to determine the sex of the child using an ultrasound. No new symptoms are detected.

Week 19

Mucous discharge from the genital tract may increase. If they are accompanied by pain, it is better to consult a doctor.

Week 20

The nagging pain in the back, as well as the heaviness in the abdomen, intensifies slightly. It is better to give up uncomfortable shoes. It is worth continuing to wear a corset. Swelling increases.

21 weeks

Observation During this period, experts believe that a child born prematurely can already survive. No specific symptoms are observed. The main thing is to carefully monitor your health. The heaviness intensifies a little more.

Week 22

As the belly increases, heaviness and back pain will increase. Manifestations of anemia may also become more frequent, so it is necessary to compensate for this condition.

In the later stages

Severe heaviness is now a common occurrence. This occurs as the uterus grows. Due to its increase, it begins to put pressure on the internal organs. Coupled with hormonal changes, digestion is further disrupted, which leads to heaviness in the stomach.

Third trimester

Heaviness and pain in the abdomen during this period do not always indicate any complication. However, if seven months of pregnancy have passed and, in addition to severity, bleeding from the genital tract is also detected, this may be evidence of placental abruption or other diseases, so it is better to seek help from a specialist.

Week 29

Heaviness in the legs, stomach and back, against the background of increasing load, can lead to varicose veins. In this case, dilated veins can be observed not only in the legs. In some cases, hemorrhoids may develop. If you experience pain or bleeding in the anal area, you should seek medical help.

Week 30

It is important to monitor closely for possible complications. Women at risk can go to the doctor for monitoring every subsequent week.

If critical symptoms appear, it may be necessary to go to the hospital to continue the pregnancy. By morning, the heaviness of the abdomen may increase, as well as pain in the legs and arms.

This is due to the increasing load on the vessels.

We'll give birth soon

31 - 37 weeks

The heaviness gradually begins to go away. The most important thing is to closely monitor vaginal discharge, as the risk of serious complications such as placental abruption increases.

Childbirth is coming soon, so it is important to know its harbingers:

• false contractions;
• weight loss;
• lowering of the abdomen;
• removal of the plug;
• lack of appetite.

It is important to closely monitor the pregnant woman's condition and report serious changes to the doctor.

Week 38

The stomach drops a little. Pain in the lower back and perineum comes to the fore. It is important to pay attention to discharge from the genital tract. If blood appears, you should immediately call an ambulance. Placental abruption may occur.

Week 39

The abdomen continues to droop. Pain in the lumbar region intensifies. Heaviness may be present, but it is almost invisible. The appearance of contractions does not always indicate the beginning of labor. They may be false. If contractions are cyclical, it is better to go to the maternity hospital.

40 week

In the last weeks of pregnancy, heaviness in the abdomen fades into the background. Many people simply don’t notice it, because they are already accustomed to this feeling. Fetal movements become more active.

Discharge appears from the mammary gland. This suggests that she is already ready to produce milk and feed the baby. At 40 weeks you need to prepare for the onset of labor.

Otherwise, no special features are noted.

Treatment

There is no specific therapy for this manifestation. The main thing is to exclude extragenital pathology.

To reduce the risk of developing gastrointestinal diseases, it is important to follow the recommendations:

• fractional meals;
• do not eat fried foods;
• heaviness increases when eating strong hot or cold foods;
• drink more fluids;
• Lead an active lifestyle, but avoid excessive physical activity.

To alleviate the manifestations of stomach diseases, doctors may prescribe. They should be taken only after consultation with your healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Expert opinion Olga Borovikova Heaviness in the abdomen often does not indicate any disease, but the normal course of pregnancy. If this feeling is accompanied by severe pain or bleeding, it is better to visit a doctor to rule out a serious illness and protect the fetus.

Bibliography:

Khvorostukhina N. F., Stolyarova U. V. (2012). "Acute intestinal obstruction during pregnancy." State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Professional Education "Saratov State Medical University named after. IN AND. Razumovsky." UDC 616.34-007.272-036.11-055.26-07-089(048.8).

Gertrude Kotyla. (1942). “Discomfort during pregnancy and how to get rid of it.” American Journal of Nursing Vol. 42 No. 4. DOI: 10.2307/3415463.

Khodzhaeva N. B., Abdurakhmanov M. M., Ikhtiyarova G. A., Dustova N. K., Kosimova N. I. (2012). "Etiology of varicose veins of the small pelvis during pregnancy." "Bukhara State Medical Institute".

Gavrilov S.G. et al. Varicose veins of the pelvis: current state // Surgery. – 2003.– No.1. – P. 7–12.

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