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Pain in the first trimester in pregnant women
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025

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Pain in the first trimester of pregnancy can occur due to a variety of reasons. Very often, discomfort in the abdominal area occurs as a result of hormonal and physiological changes in the pregnant woman's body. However, pain is always a reason to listen and understand the reasons for taking appropriate measures if necessary.
What causes first trimester pain in pregnancy?
Pain in the first trimester of pregnancy is very often associated with natural pregnancy changes in the woman's body: the abdomen begins to increase in size, the ligaments soften. Women who have had excessively painful menstruations in the past are most sensitive to such changes.
The appearance of a feeling of heaviness in the left side may indicate a displacement of the intestine to the left. The hormones produced have a relaxing effect on both the uterus and the intestine. To eliminate discomfort, frequent but fractional meals are recommended. The use of laxatives without a doctor's prescription is strictly prohibited.
If pain occurs in the right side, it is most likely due to changes in the functioning of the gallbladder. Due to increased bile production, a feeling of heaviness may occur. In these cases, a balanced diet is recommended, excluding chocolate, smoked foods, etc.
Flatulence may cause a tingling sensation. This is most likely due to increased hormone production. Excessive gas formation may also be associated with discomfort in the navel area.
Pain in the first trimester in pregnant women can be a sign of thrush, which occurs due to decreased immunity and rapid proliferation of various fungi, which leads to inflammation. The disease must be treated with antifungal drugs prescribed by a doctor.
Hypertonicity of the uterus is another problem that occurs in the early stages. To reduce the tone of the uterus, synthetic analogues of the missing hormones are used. Sharp pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by bleeding, is always a very alarming and dangerous signal that requires an immediate call to an ambulance. Even in the absence of any discharge, sharp pain is a significant reason to immediately consult a doctor.
Pain in the first trimester of pregnancy, occurring in the mammary glands, is one of the signs of hormonal changes in the body. The breasts are the first to react to the onset of the "interesting" situation - excessive sensitivity appears, the breasts become larger, heavier, which leads to the appearance of discomfort and pain. As a rule, these symptoms disappear by the end of the first trimester. In order to alleviate the condition, it is recommended to wear a comfortable bra made of natural fabrics, daily hygiene procedures - washing with warm water, preferably without using soap, as this can dry out the skin.
If no pathologies were detected during the examination of a pregnant woman by a gynecologist, most likely the discomfort that arises is associated with the natural physiological restructuring of the body.
Pain in the first trimester in pregnant women can be accompanied by headaches, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, frequent mood swings - all these signs can undoubtedly be the result of natural changes during pregnancy, but only an experienced gynecologist can finally understand the causes. Self-treatment or ignoring the symptoms can lead to irreversible consequences. When pregnancy occurs, visits to the gynecologist should be regular.