Stomach or tummy pains in pregnancy are very common and can happen at any time. Most of the time, they are nothing to worry about. But sometimes they can be a sign of something more serious.
It is important to know what to look out for in each trimester and when to get help.
Weeks 12 to 28
Stomach pain in the second trimester is often due to round ligament pain. Your womb is expanding and this can cause the ligaments to stretch.
This can cause pain in your lower tummy, groin or hips on one or both sides. It is important to get checked by your GP, obstetrician or midwife if you have pain like this.
There are some things you can do to help with pelvic ligament pain:
- lie on the opposite side to the pain
- take your time when moving, especially when turning in bed at night
- take a warm bath
Sometimes pain in your pelvic area can be caused by pelvic girdle pain.
You should sleep on your side when you're pregnant. It can help prevent stillbirth.
