Stomach tightens during pregnancy. Stone belly during pregnancy. special attention group

As soon as she learns that she is pregnant, a woman immediately changes her attitude towards her own body. The expectant mother carefully listens to any signals from the inside, and often they alert her or even frighten her. It happens that in women the stomach becomes stony during pregnancy, it becomes hard and tense. If other unpleasant sensations are added to this, then the pregnant woman begins to wonder if this is normal. And he does the right thing, because a hard belly during pregnancy often warns of increased risks in terms of bearing.

Why a hard belly during pregnancy: reasons

The hardness of the abdomen during the period of bearing a child suggests that the muscle tissue of the uterus spasms, which leads to an increase in the tone of the reproductive organ. This comes with several dangers. Under conditions of uterine hypertonicity, uteroplacental circulation is significantly worsened, as a result of which the fetus may experience oxygen starvation and experience intrauterine hypoxia. In addition, the risk of detachment of the fetal egg or placenta, miscarriage or premature birth is significantly increased.

It is difficult to determine exactly what exactly became the root cause of uterine hypertonicity, but various factors can lead to this:

physical stress;
emotional upheavals and outbursts;
orgasm;
overfilled bladder;
infections and inflammation in the genitourinary system;
viral diseases, influenza;
violations in the work of the digestive tract (flatulence, colitis, dysbacteriosis);
polyhydramnios during pregnancy;
pathologies in the pelvic organs;
smoking and drinking, etc.

In addition, the tummy can stiffen when you stay in one position for a long time. For this reason, a hard stomach becomes more often in the mornings or in the evenings, when mommy lies on her side or on her back. By the way, keep in mind that after 20 weeks of pregnancy, doctors do not recommend sleeping on your stomach (although, most likely, this will already be impossible or difficult).

Not all causes are equally dangerous, but if you feel that you have a hard stomach during pregnancy, then you should pay attention to this and take extra care.

Hard belly during early pregnancy

The first weeks of pregnancy are associated with increased risks. It is in the early stages that spontaneous abortion most often occurs. Therefore, at the slightest malaise or discomfort on the part of your body, it is better to consult a doctor. Now you should take care, reduce physical activity, relax more, learn to relax and find a source of positive emotions.

If a hard stomach in the early stages is strongly and regularly tense, and especially if it hurts at the same time, and bloody discharge from the vagina is also observed, then it is urgent to consult a doctor.

When the baby is already growing up enough, and the mother clearly hears his movements, the tummy tenses more often, which is also associated with the motor activity of the crumbs. Sometimes hardness is felt on one side, if the baby, for example, puts forward the ass or knee. But the threat of increased uterine tone does not disappear until the very end of pregnancy. And if the stomach tenses up very often, then this should certainly become an alarm bell.

If the stomach is swollen and hard during pregnancy, then you should reconsider your eating habits and addictions. Flatulence and bloating can be the result of malnutrition: exclude gas-producing foods from your menu and eat small portions, but more often.

There is also something else to take into account. Already from the second trimester, in preparation for future childbirth, a woman may experience training contractions, accompanied by slight tension and spasm at the bottom. They do not pose any danger: such contractions are not intense, are irregular and soon disappear on their own.

If there are several weeks left before childbirth, then a hard belly during pregnancy at 36, 37, 38, 39, 40 weeks may portend their imminent onset and be the norm.

What to do when a hard belly during pregnancy

Tension in the abdomen, of course, cannot be completely harmless, but at the same time, it is far from always being dangerous. If a woman’s tummy only sometimes hardens during pregnancy, but does not hurt, if this happens infrequently and only after excessive stress, or, for example, hardness appears when walking fast, then most likely there is no reason to worry. In such cases, doctors advise to lie down, take a comfortable position and relax as much as possible - soon the discomfort will disappear. Henceforth, it is necessary to avoid any overexertion and try to rest more during the day.

However, in some cases it is necessary to consult a doctor immediately. Consultation with a specialist is necessary if:

the tummy is very hard and it does not go away;
hard and sore;
hardness is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen or as during menstruation, in the lower back, in the region of the sacrum, coccyx, rectum;
red or brown discharge from the vagina;
discomfort in the peritoneal area appears regularly, often recurs, or pain and tension increase;
fainting, severe nausea, vomiting occur;
there are false urges to defecate.

If the stomach seizes suddenly and very strongly, then you need to drink 2 tablets of No-shpa, lie on your side and call an ambulance.

Finally, I would like to say a few words of comfort. This symptom worries many pregnant women. But the vast majority of them safely carry the baby to the due date. The prognosis and outcome of abdominal tension largely depends on your correct and timely actions, and their algorithm in such a situation is very simple: maximum calmness and comfort (both physical and emotional) and urgent medical consultation if pain, discomfort or mental anxiety. It is possible that the gynecologist will advise you to lighten your daily schedule or prescribe safe sedatives that relax the uterine tone. But if he offers hospitalization due to the risk of miscarriage, then it is better not to refuse.

Especially for - Elena Semenova

A hard belly during pregnancy is a common occurrence observed in most women in position. Every expectant mother during the period of bearing a child is sensitive to her health, pays attention to every change in her condition. Often she has pain, heaviness in the abdomen, muscle tension. This raises concerns. After all, not every woman knows whether the stomach should be hard or soft during pregnancy.

The causes of a hard belly during pregnancy are physiological processes or pathological changes that occur in the body of the expectant mother. To understand why the stomach became hard during pregnancy, in a particular case, only a gynecologist can. A woman should visit him if the hardness persists for a day or more. Depending on the provoking factor, medical treatment may be required or only rest with the exclusion of any physical exertion will be enough.

A woman who has been diagnosed with such a diagnosis should not panic ahead of time. The causes of a hard uterus during pregnancy are well studied, the pathology can be successfully treated. The main thing is to contact a gynecologist in time and strictly adhere to all medical recommendations.

The physiological norm is the temporary appearance of hardness in the lower abdomen at any stage of pregnancy due to filling or overflow of the bladder. Its walls put pressure on the uterus, as a result of which its muscles tense up so that the fetus is not infringed. This condition, sometimes accompanied by moderate pain, is easily eliminated by emptying the bladder.

Other common causes:

inflammation of the pelvic organs -, adnexitis,;
urogenital infections, for example;
physical overload;
hormonal and endocrine disorders;
release of oxytocin during stress, fear, orgasm;
abnormal development of the uterus - underdevelopment, bend;
a consequence of cardiovascular disease, exacerbated in a pregnant woman;
problems with the intestines - flatulence, dysbacteriosis, colitis;
disruption of the digestive tract;
infections of a bacterial and viral nature - influenza, acute respiratory infections, colds;
bad habits - alcohol addiction, smoking, drug addiction;
a tumor in the abdominal cavity of a benign or malignant nature;
long stay in one position, especially during sleep.

Why is a hard belly dangerous in early pregnancy?

The first weeks of gestation is a very important period during which the laying of organs and systems in the embryo takes place. A woman should have more rest, protect herself from stressful situations as much as possible, reduce physical activity, receive positive emotions from listening to music, walking in the fresh air.

If in the early stages of pregnancy the stomach becomes hard, more often this is associated with uterine hypertonicity. A woman with such a problem has a high risk of premature miscarriage, especially with the appearance of pulling pains in the lower abdomen and spotting. It is necessary to immediately contact a gynecologist, and it is better to call an ambulance. To eliminate the pathological condition, some require bed rest with the use of hormonal and sedatives, while others require hospital treatment.

Another reason may be that some people experience after the 20th week of gestation. They are rare and do not occur regularly, usually with a break of 5-6 hours. This condition does not require treatment. More often it is enough to lie in a warm bath, take a walk in the fresh air or drink peppermint infusion.

Why is a hard belly dangerous in late pregnancy?

The abdomen hardens during pregnancy more often in the 3rd trimester, which is associated with the stirring of the grown fetus. Often there is tension in the muscles of the peritoneum in the place where the crumb rests from the inside with the leg.

If bloating appears, and it has hardened, then it is worth reviewing your diet, excluding food that causes fermentation in the intestines. These are grapes, black bread, green beans, cabbage, etc.

In late pregnancy, 2-3 weeks before delivery, the cause of a hard abdomen may be premonitory contractions. They are harmless, occur irregularly, do not dilate the cervix, last no longer than a minute, and go away on their own. So the uterus and the body are preparing for the upcoming birth.

If, during pregnancy, a hard abdomen is accompanied by pain that occurs at regular intervals, while they are shortened, and periods of muscle spasm increase, then, most likely, preterm labor has begun. You need to lie down and immediately call an ambulance.

A normal sign of pregnancy is abdominal firmness at 37-39 weeks, when the baby is considered full term. But the appearance of copious blood discharge should alert the woman, as this indicates the onset of placental abruption.

What to do with tension in the abdominal muscles?

With rarely occurring abdominal hardness, not supplemented by any other symptoms, you should not worry. If the condition does not go away on its own, then it is better to go to bed and relax. Helps regular use for several days of a decoction or infusion of lemon balm and mint.

With a long-term increased tone of the muscles of the uterus and peritoneum, the addition of pain (sometimes radiating to the sacrum or perineum), the appearance of bleeding, symptoms of intoxication and / or dyspeptic disorders, a gynecologist's consultation is necessary.

Measures to prevent uterine hypertonicity and hard abdomen

Many expectant mothers are faced with the fact that during pregnancy, the stomach hardens at different times, which naturally causes concern. What is this state of the body of a pregnant woman when her stomach hardens?

This state is called or. - This is a muscular organ, which in the normal state is relaxed, and when the muscles contract, for various reasons, it tenses.

What factors can cause this condition?

Stressful situations, physical activity, physiological processes in the body, as well as hormonal changes can lead to increased tone.

It’s worth noting right away: girls can have such seals in the lower part of the abdominal cavity at absolutely any time (during sleep, in reality). However, it most often occurs in the last weeks of pregnancy. It also happens when a woman is pregnant with twins.

In medicine, there is such a thing as uterine tone. It is important to note here that the uterus itself is a muscular organ, it consists entirely of smooth muscles. Therefore, the tone of the uterine muscles is a natural, normal state, without which the uterus would not be able to perform its function associated with bearing a child, as well as pushing it out during childbirth.

A hard stomach during pregnancy is a common phenomenon associated with tension in the muscles and ligaments of the uterus. With a prolonged increase in the tone of the uterus, placental circulation may be disturbed, the child's place may exfoliate, or the pregnancy may be terminated.

The causes of a hard abdomen during pregnancy can be pathological and physiological processes. Depending on the reasons that provoked the tone of the uterus, you need to select ways to relax it. Sometimes a short rest is enough for a pregnant woman, and under other circumstances, a pregnant woman may need medical attention.

Normally, during pregnancy, the stomach becomes stony with a full bladder. The bladder squeezes the uterus, provoking an increase in muscle tone. In this case, the pregnant woman may feel pain in the abdomen, which increases with movement. Usually, with the timely emptying of the bladder, the uterus becomes soft again.

A hard stomach can be caused by pathological processes:

Inflammation of the small pelvis in a chronic form (colpitis, adnexitis).
Infectious processes in the genitourinary tract (for example, with chlamydia).
A sharp release of oxytocin into the blood during stress or fear.
Physical loads. If during pregnancy the stomach becomes stony, it is necessary to stop doing the exercises and lie down calmly.
Tumors in the pelvis.
Colds, viruses and infections (ARVI or rotavirus infection).
Endocrine disorders in the female body.

Main reasons

There are many factors that cause this symptom during pregnancy. They are not always dangerous for the mother and child, but they often scare a woman, especially if the pregnancy is the first.

In anticipation of a child, women experience a whole range of a wide variety of sensations. Dissatisfaction with bouts of toxicosis is replaced by joy at the first movements of the fetus, and the sluggishness of the changed body is more than offset by a premonition of an early meeting with your baby.

This crucial period does not always go smoothly, and not all changes in the body have a positive effect on the health of the expectant mother. Such a frequent occurrence as a hard stomach during pregnancy#184; may be a sign of serious distress.

What threatens such a condition to a woman and her baby?

A hard belly is a sign of uterine hypertonicity

Not a single pregnant woman is immune from the phenomenon of a “stone” belly, and you can encounter this at any time of an interesting situation.

At the same time, the reasons for this condition for each trimester will be different and may indicate completely different processes that occur during this period with a woman. There are several causes of petrification in the lower abdomen, below we will list the most common ones.

Give birth soon!

Not a single pregnant woman is immune from the phenomenon of a “stone” belly, and you can encounter this at any time of an interesting situation

Firstly, a hard belly can turn to stone at any stage of pregnancy, because. the uterus is a muscular organ. Accordingly, it can be in a calm, relaxed state or tense up during muscle contractions (spasms).

In some cases, such pathologies cause damage to the central nervous system, pathologies of physical development.

The causes of abdominal petrification are physiological or pathological processes.

The physiological causes of the petrification of the abdomen, in general, can be eliminated on their own. These include:

Bladder filling. Hypertonicity of the uterus in this case is a protective process. Thus, it saves space for the fetus, protecting it from the pressure of an overflowing bladder. After going to the toilet, the cause of the petrification will be removed and the abdomen will become soft again.

Increasing the concentration of the hormone oxytocin. The main function of oxytocin in a woman's body is to increase uterine contractions. Its content increases in the blood not only during childbirth, but also due to mental stress (stress, fright, orgasm). Therefore, if after sexual intercourse the stomach has hardened, the pregnant woman needs to lie down and relax as much as possible, be distracted by something neutral, and when visiting the gynecologist, tell about what happened. Perhaps the doctor will recommend to refrain from sexual activity during pregnancy. If the cause of the release of oxytocin was fear or stress, you must also relax and not think about what happened. It is important to maintain inner peace so as not to harm the child.

Excessive physical activity. If before pregnancy a woman regularly visited the gym, went in for some kind of sport, then with the onset of pregnancy, it is worth significantly reducing the load, because. they can cause hypertonicity, which can lead to miscarriage. If after a walk a woman's stomach is petrified, it is necessary to lie down and rest.

Overwork, lack of sleep.
Infrequent changes in posture when sitting or lying down.

Only a doctor can diagnose the pathological causes of a hard abdomen. These include:

pathology of the development of the genital organs (anomalies in the structure of the uterus);
hormonal disorders of a pregnant woman (lack of the hormone progesterone);
tumors in the genital organs (myoma, polyps);
chronic diseases of a woman (diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure);
infections of the genitourinary system (ureaplasmosis, trichomoniasis, chlamydia);
inflammatory processes (adnexitis, colpitis);
complications of pregnancy (polyhydramnios, impaired fetoplacental circulation).

The main reason for the appearance of abdominal hardness is uterine hypertonicity. In obstetric and gynecological practice, muscle tension of the reproductive organ is referred to as a pathology of pregnancy.

Long-lasting increased muscle tone is fraught with successively occurring serious consequences: impaired placental circulation, oxygen starvation of the fetus, placental abruption, threatened miscarriage or premature birth.

Stomach in the stomach during pregnancy

A hard and elastic belly during pregnancy is not uncommon. A woman can notice such changes, both at the 5th and at the 30th week. This may be a physiological phenomenon or indicate the development of pathological processes in the uterus. When this symptom appears, it is important not to ignore it, but to establish the cause in time and, if necessary, begin treatment.

Why does the stomach sometimes become hard and elastic during pregnancy?

When the stomach becomes stony during pregnancy 4.00 / 5 (80.00%) Voted: 4

At any stage of pregnancy, you can notice that the stomach has become hard to the touch. This may take several minutes or longer. Why does the stomach stiffen during pregnancy and is this symptom dangerous? This condition can be caused by various reasons, but most often a hard stomach indicates uterine hypertonicity.

Hypertonicity is an increased tension in the muscles of the uterus before the onset of childbirth. This condition carries the risk of spontaneous abortion. In the early stages, detachment of the placenta is possible. The stone belly during pregnancy cannot be ignored, and for the reason that the fetus with hypertonicity is deprived of a sufficient amount of nutrients and oxygen.

If the stomach rarely becomes hard, especially after physical exertion or a sudden movement, you should not worry. Most likely, this is a natural tension of the muscles of the uterus.

The same effect is possible after ultrasound. If the rest of the time the stomach remains soft, then there is no danger.

But, when during pregnancy the stomach becomes stony for a long time, and spasms are repeated often, you should seek help from a doctor. You can ease the spasm with the help of special candles allowed for expectant mothers.

In addition, you should relax, take a few deep breaths and exhale.

The doctor will conduct all the necessary studies (ultrasound or dopplerometry), take tests, assess the condition of the uterus, etc. In the presence of any deviations from the norm, he will prescribe complex therapy. Anti-inflammatory drugs and agents to improve placental function may be used in treatment.

In some cases, inpatient treatment is required, which is better not to refuse. Being in the hospital scares many women, but the constant supervision of professionals will help get rid of hypertonicity as soon as possible and avoid the risk of premature birth.

If the stomach turns to stone at the 40th week of pregnancy, this indicates the imminent onset of labor. This is how training contractions appear, which prepare the uterus for the birth process. This means that it is time for the expectant mother to pack her things and set herself up for a quick meeting with the baby. Many women at this time are already in the hospital to save themselves from unnecessary nerves.

Patches for umbilical hernias in newborns: types, principle of action, how to apply

Any woman of childbearing age sooner or later has to deal with muscular hypertonicity of the uterus. This condition causes considerable concern in primiparas, however, it is not difficult to explain why the abdomen (mainly in its lower part) becomes stony during pregnancy.

Secondly, rhythmic lowering sensations (in the later stages after the 34th week) are associated, to a greater extent, with the training of the woman's body before future contractions and childbirth. A hard belly during pregnancy is called Braxton-Hicks contractions.

This condition is characterized by a sharp and uncontrolled tension of the muscles of the uterus lasting up to 2 minutes. at a frequency of up to 4 times per hour, accompanied by painful pressure on the stomach.

If the stomach stiffens (hardens) during pregnancy in the middle term (II trimester) and this condition persists, it is urgent to get to the doctor to remove the unwanted syndrome. The increased tone of the uterus, as you know, sharply worsens the intrauterine well-being of the fetus.

Oxygen starvation in acute or chronic form (hypoxia) only complicates the blood supply to the fetus, which ultimately leads to serious consequences for the further development of the fetus (violation of the formation of the organs of the embryo).

In some cases, such pathologies cause damage to the central nervous system, pathologies of physical development.
.

The last weeks of pregnancy for a woman become a real test.

At this time, the fetus already weighs 3-3.5 kg, the main weight falls on the placenta with the umbilical cord and amniotic fluid. At the end of pregnancy, the uterus has a weight of about 10 kg, plus the weight of the mammary glands, additional water in the body and its own fat.

Unfortunately, not all expectant mothers know what the stomach should be like during pregnancy - hard or soft. At all stages of pregnancy, a soft stomach is considered the norm. A condition in which the abdomen stiffens is a sign of uterine hypertonicity and can lead to the loss of a child or premature birth.

Only a doctor can determine why the stomach becomes hard during pregnancy. For this, the following types of diagnostics are used:

poll;
palpation of the abdomen;
Ultrasound of the internal genital organs;
blood test for hormone levels, sugar;
smear analysis for genital infections and the presence of inflammation.

Depending on the cause that caused the state of petrification of the abdomen in a pregnant woman, corrective measures or treatment are prescribed. These include:

bed rest;
reduction of physical activity;
exclusion of stressful situations, overwork;
sexual rest;
antispasmodics;
hormone therapy;
therapy aimed at eliminating fetal hypoxia.

Abdominal petrification treatment can be carried out both on an outpatient basis and in a hospital.

As a prevention of the condition of the stone abdomen during pregnancy, the following measures will be effective:

examination during pregnancy planning (ultrasound, hormones, infections, inflammatory processes);
study of methods for normalizing the psychological state (meditation, breathing exercises).

About 60% of expectant mothers complain about a hard stomach. Every pregnant woman should know why a hard belly is dangerous during pregnancy, in what cases it is worth consulting a doctor and how to behave so as not to worsen the condition. In most cases, hardening of the abdomen is treatable, after which the threat of termination of pregnancy disappears and there is every chance of giving birth to a healthy baby at term.

The first weeks of gestation is a very important period during which the laying of organs and systems in the embryo takes place. A woman should have more rest, protect herself from stressful situations as much as possible, reduce physical activity, receive positive emotions from listening to music, walking in the fresh air.

It is necessary to immediately contact a gynecologist, and it is better to call an ambulance. To eliminate the pathological condition, some require bed rest with the use of hormonal and sedatives, while others require hospital treatment.

The abdomen hardens during pregnancy more often in the 3rd trimester, which is associated with the stirring of the grown fetus. Often there is tension in the muscles of the peritoneum in the place where the crumb rests from the inside with the leg.

In conclusion, it is necessary to indicate what dangers hypertonicity represents. So the possible consequences are:

spontaneous abortion;
premature birth;
detachment of the placenta;
fetal hypoxia and, as a result, developmental delay.

There are no special preventive measures to avoid the state of hypertonicity.

But, nevertheless, it is possible to reduce the risks, if there are no congenital pathologies of the uterus, by planning pregnancy. Before conception, both parents need to be examined, if necessary, cure all infectious diseases, eliminate possible foci of infection, for example, treat teeth affected by caries, take a course of vitamins.

And when pregnancy occurs, enjoy the state, avoiding stressful situations. Health to you and your children.

If a woman's stomach stiffens during pregnancy and this is not an accidental phenomenon, but a consequence of pathological hypertonicity of the uterus, then inpatient treatment may be required. Sometimes, to eliminate an unpleasant syndrome, doctors prescribe sedatives and hormonal drugs, prescribe bed rest.

If a pregnant woman feels pulling pains, as before the start of the menstrual cycle, and, in addition, spotting has appeared, then there is a high probability of a threat of termination of pregnancy. In this case, you need to urgently call an ambulance.

A hard belly during pregnancy for a period of more than 35 weeks may be associated with the appearance of Braxton-Hicks training contractions. If the abdomen hurts and contracts at approximately the same time intervals, and the periods of muscle tension become very long, these are clear signs that preterm labor has begun.

A hard belly during pregnancy for a period of 38-39 weeks is quite normal, unless there is spotting.

Anxiety symptoms accompanying hardening of the abdomen

If the stomach became hard during pregnancy, a woman should evaluate the frequency, duration and intensity of hardening, think about what could provoke this condition. If the petrification had a one-time, short and low-intensity character, you should not worry. But at a planned visit to the doctor, you need to tell about it.

The warning signs are the following:

stomach hardens more than 4 times per hour;
cramping pain is felt;
bloody, brownish, pinkish or watery discharge began;
there was pain in the lower back;
fetal movements are rare or absent.

If any symptom or a combination of them appears, it is urgent to call an ambulance, lie down and relax.

Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a hard abdomen during pregnancy

To maximize the exclusion of factors that provoke the appearance of abdominal hardness during pregnancy, you should take preventive measures before conception:

Pass a comprehensive examination for both future parents to exclude STIs (venereal diseases), inflammatory processes.
A woman to treat existing chronic diseases and avoid, if possible, infection with viral and other infections.
To refuse from bad habits.
Adjust the mode of work and rest.
Start eating right.

Yoga or Pilates classes, swimming in the pool will be a big plus. All this will help reduce the risks that interfere with the normal course of pregnancy.

When alarming symptoms appear, it is better to visit a gynecologist once again. After assessing the condition, he will advise how to proceed further, and will tell if treatment is required in this case.

It is quite possible that a short intake of safe sedatives and drugs that relax the tone of the uterus will be sufficient. If the doctor believes that medication is needed or the situation requires you to be hospitalized in a hospital for round-the-clock monitoring, then do not refuse.

So there really is a need for it.

Pregnancy is one of the most joyful periods in the life of every woman, but at the same time exciting. I so want these 9 months to pass carefree and the baby to be born healthy. But, unfortunately, not all expectant mothers get pregnant in the same breath. Many of them face unpleasant problems. One of the most common is the feeling of petrification of the abdomen. Why hardening of the stomach during pregnancy, at what time is this symptom dangerous, when do you need to see a doctor?

The stomach turns to stone during pregnancy - how is it?

At the same time, the woman feels a slight bursting and heaviness inside, a slight tension appears in the lower abdomen. The sensations are localized either on one side or cover the entire area. In the early stages of pregnancy, the symptom is not accompanied by pain, in the later stages, discomfort may appear.

Visually, the abdomen acquires a pointed shape, and when touched, it resembles a solid object.

If at the same time there is pain in the sacrum, lower back, lower abdomen, above the pubis, in the groin, fatigue in the back, discharge with blood impurities, then you should immediately inform the doctor about this!

The same applies to women in whom hardening of the abdomen is observed before 32 weeks of pregnancy.

The most common causes of the condition

One of the most common causes of abdominal petrification is the uterus. The fact is that the uterus is an organ that consists entirely of smooth muscles. It has the ability to contract, which will always manifest itself as hardening and petrification of the abdomen. The uterus can contract at any stage of pregnancy.

If the stomach stiffens in the first trimester

Hypertonicity is especially dangerous in the first trimester of pregnancy up to 12 weeks. At the same time, pulling pains in the lower abdomen and in the lumbar region may be felt, discharge may appear. In this situation, there is a threat of miscarriage, so the woman should immediately go to the hospital!

This symptom in early pregnancy is observed due to the rejection of the embryo by the uterus. Through contraction, she tries to free herself from the embryo. As a result, the stomach becomes stony, hypertonicity is observed, which can cause a miscarriage.

Strong emotional shocks, excessive physical activity, an active lifestyle can lead to this phenomenon.

If the stomach of a pregnant woman stiffens in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy

False contractions - Braxton-Hicks contractions - can become the cause of petrification of the abdomen at a later date. This phenomenon got its name due to the fact that in the process the cervix does not open, as it happens with true contractions.

Normally, they should occur after 32 weeks of pregnancy (training contractions at an earlier date indicate violations). They are usually accompanied by slight muscle tension and spasm. This process is absolutely normal (after 32 weeks). Contractions are non-intense. May appear regularly, disappear on their own.

If petrification is observed at the end of the third trimester of pregnancy, then this may be a signal of an approaching birth. In this case, the woman will feel a pulling and squeezing pain that either appears or disappears. Moreover, the time interval between sensations is reduced, and the pain becomes more intense.

Other reasons

Stomach in the abdomen during pregnancy can be with a full bladder. The organ squeezes the uterus, leading to an increase in its tone. At the same time, the pregnant woman feels a slight soreness in the abdomen, which intensifies during movement. As soon as the bladder is emptied, the uterus will become soft again.

Stomach can also be with:

wearing too tight clothes;
insufficient synthesis of the hormone progesterone;
transferring a pregnant woman of severe stress or fright;
allergic reactions;
pressure on the lower abdomen;

The abdomen can harden when exposed to pathological factors - a woman has chronic inflammation of the pelvic organs, infectious diseases of the genitourinary organs, endocrine disorders.

Consequences if the stomach often becomes stony?

If the stomach becomes hard too often in the early stages of pregnancy - from the first to the 28th week, then this threatens with a spontaneous miscarriage. Therefore, if a woman feels strong pulling and cramping pains, spotting is observed, then you should immediately consult a doctor!

If the stomach is often and for a long time tense, then this may indicate placental abruption. This happens at different times. At the same time, the woman feels:

frequent and prolonged tension of the uterus;
any touch on the abdomen is accompanied by severe dull and cramping pain;
bleeding occurs.

The only way out of this situation is to stimulate labor or.

If hypertonicity often worries a woman after the 28th week of pregnancy, then this may mean the opening of the cervix, that is, premature birth. In this case, the pains will be strong - compressive and cramping, radiating to the sacrum and lower back.

If the petrification of the abdomen is continuously felt, then this has a very bad effect on the child. The baby receives less nutrients, oxygen, hypoxia may develop.

What to do if the stomach often becomes stony during pregnancy?

If the stomach hardens, then, regardless of the gestational age, you should consult a doctor. Self-treatment in this case is impractical!

With hypertonicity, the “cat” exercise helps. To do this, you need to kneel, lean your hands on the surface, then alternately arch and bend your back.

Regardless of the gestational age, with frequent abdominal petrification, doctors recommend:

do not overload physically and emotionally;
do not sleep on your back (preferably on your left side);
walk more in the fresh air;
Healthy food;
surround yourself with only positive emotions;
organize a normal mode of operation;
get enough sleep;
give up sexual activity;
if you experience pain, bleeding, discharge, contact your doctor immediately!

Performing any physical exercise should be agreed with the doctor!

What medications are acceptable for pregnant women if the stomach becomes stony?

When petrifying the abdomen, sedatives, antispasmodic, hormonal drugs, as well as vitamin complexes are taken.

If the cause is a lack of the hormone progesterone, then the doctor will prescribe "Utrozhestan", "Dufaston". They are usually prescribed in early pregnancy.

As a sedative therapy are prescribed:

"Sibazol";
"Nozepam";
valerian tablets;
"Trioxazine".

All of them consist of herbal ingredients, so they are absolutely safe during pregnancy.

With frequent tension of the uterus, doctors prescribe Magne B6. This preparation contains magnesium, which helps to reduce muscle tension. In addition, it has a positive effect on the functioning of the nervous system, which is simply necessary throughout the entire period of pregnancy.

Reduce excessive activity of the uterus, prevent the contraction of the myometrium tocolytic drugs. Thanks to these drugs, the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus increases. Most often prescribed: "Ginipral", "Terbutalin", "Partusisten".

The above information regarding these medicinal products is provided strictly for informational purposes! Self-administration without a prescription and consultation with a doctor is strictly prohibited!

Dangerous symptoms in which you need to see a doctor immediately

If a pregnant woman's stomach becomes stony, then this does not necessarily threaten her and the fetus with danger. However, there are a number of signs in which you must definitely contact an obstetrician-gynecologist, or better, call an ambulance. Here is their list:

Brown, bloody discharge (may indicate placental abruption).
Violent cramping, constricting pains in the abdomen.
The woman notices that fetal movements have become rare or they are completely absent.
Contractions appear constantly and are combined with pain in the lower spine.
The discharge is copious and watery.
Abdominal petrification occurs more than 4 times in 1 hour.

If the stomach turns to stone at the end of the third trimester, then this is most likely the beginning of true contractions. Therefore, you need to urgently call an ambulance and go to the hospital.

How to distinguish between tone, training contractions and true contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions, exactly like the tone of the uterus (normal), last no more than 2 minutes. The woman feels a sharp petrification of the abdomen, which after a while also abruptly disappears. These phenomena occur spontaneously and are not accompanied by pain. During such contractions, doctors recommend a pregnant woman to do breathing exercises. This will allow the woman to prepare for childbirth.

Labor pains tend to increase. The uterus contracts, while the woman feels a rhythmic contraction that comes from the bottom of the uterus and diverges throughout the organ, touching the lumbar region and the small pelvis. True contractions are repeated more and more often, the time interval between them decreases each time, and the pain, on the contrary, increases and passes to the lower part of the spine.

As for the tone, then in this condition, in addition to a hard stomach, aching, pulling pains in the lower abdomen (as for menstruation) are necessarily observed.

If the stomach stiffens during pregnancy, a woman should immediately contact an obstetrician-gynecologist and find out the cause of this symptom, since it can mean serious disorders!

Primiparous women often have unmotivated fears that make them panic for any reason. Doubts arise as to whether they take proper care of their health, whether they are doing everything to ensure that a full-fledged child is born. One of the exciting questions is whether it is dangerous or not to draw in the abdomen in the early stages of pregnancy. Experts in such cases are advised to familiarize themselves with the changes that occur after conception and attachment to the uterus of the fetal egg.

Is it possible to retract and strain the stomach in early pregnancy

In the early stages, retraction of the abdomen will not harm the embryo.

In the first months, it is not forbidden to wear tight clothes and tight underwear. The embryo is very small, reliably protected by a special membrane and amniotic fluid. The wall of the peritoneum serves as a resistant armor against direct pressure, so the retraction of the abdomen is not capable of causing much harm to the embryo.

Muscles cannot withstand the described load for a long time. When they get tired, they spontaneously relax. For a short time of their containment in the pelvic area, blood circulation is not disturbed, so you should not worry. If the described circumstance is not a constant trend and the woman is completely healthy, nothing terrible can happen.

It is very useful to periodically retract the stomach and train the muscles of the peritoneum before the upcoming birth. It is necessary to keep them in good shape, strengthen them so that they help push the fetus out of the womb. For these purposes, special sets of exercises have been developed. Regular training will allow you to bear the child without problems and maintain a slender figure.

The practice of delivery shows that women who are engaged in physical education in the process of gestation give birth easier, calmer, without complications. With weak abdominal muscles, the birth of a baby can be delayed for a long time. The expectant mother will suffer incredibly. Often these conditions end in serious injury.

Retraction of the abdomen during a successful pregnancy does not pose any danger, but it is still advisable to listen to your own body and respond correctly to any discomfort that arises.

Possible consequences

Women who have a history of a threatened miscarriage should not strain their stomach during pregnancy. Any physical activity is contraindicated. It is necessary to observe bed rest and make a minimum of movements. There can be no talk of any retraction (conscious or unconscious).

With an increase in the term, such patients are shown wearing a special bandage - a product that supports the muscles of the peritoneum, lower back and removes some of the load from them. Failure to comply with such requirements leads to the development of dangerous complications. A constantly retracting abdomen will provoke stagnation of blood in the small pelvis. This will cause fetal hypoxia. Oxygen starvation can lead to the death of an unborn baby.

Wearing tight underwear or belts is considered potentially dangerous after three months. There are risks of increasing the tone of the uterus, the activity of the child in the womb. This phenomenon has nothing to do with the communication of the fetus with the outside world. He begins to move randomly when he experiences any physiological discomfort.

Why the stomach does not retract in early pregnancy

There are conditions in which it is not possible to perform the described exercise. Often, with tension in the muscles of the peritoneum, there is a feeling that something is in the way in the pelvis. There are several reasons for this phenomenon.

Increased gas formation

As soon as the fetal egg attaches to the walls of the uterus, an increased synthesis of the hormone progesterone begins. It stimulates the relaxation of smooth muscles. This is necessary so that the reproductive organ does not push out an actively developing embryo.

Relaxes not only the uterus, but also the intestines. Decreased peristalsis. Food stays longer in the tract. Fecal masses are compacted, decompose and rot. This process enhances gas formation. It stimulates bloating, which makes retracting the abdomen impossible.

hypertonicity

According to statistics, a similar condition in the early stages of pregnancy is detected in six women out of ten. It is diagnosed when the uterus is very tense, painful on palpation. The lower abdomen pulls, there is a malaise as during menstruation. In this position, it is absolutely impossible to strain the muscles of the peritoneum: this can provoke a threat of abortion.

Sometimes these symptoms occur due to natural processes. A small local inflammation develops at the site of attachment of the fetal egg. It is a good sign that the placenta is starting to form actively. The fetus grows rapidly, the uterus is constantly increasing in size, the ligaments that hold it in the correct anatomical position are stretched. This causes pain, which increases with the retraction of the abdomen.

Colitis of the lower intestine

In this disease, inflammatory-dystrophic changes in the thick segment of the tract occur. Various reasons can provoke them: fungal, viral, bacterial infections, poisoning, food allergies, taking certain medications. If a woman suffers from a chronic pathology, during pregnancy it may worsen. In this case, there is aching pain around the navel and in the iliac region. It increases with movement, with the act of defecation. In addition, heartburn and nausea are very disturbing. The general condition is deteriorating.

With colitis, severe discomfort interferes with retracting the stomach. The action increases the pain, so instinctively the woman tries not to make any movements.

Neoplasm in the pelvis

Pregnancy can be carried in the presence of tumors. This is a rather serious problem for both the obstetrician-gynecologist and the expectant mother herself. If the benign nature of the neoplasm is confirmed, a wait-and-see attitude is taken. The affected organ is under constant control, which is carried out with the help of ultrasound.

If the growth of the tumor or cyst is markedly progressing, steps are taken to actively treat them. The neoplasm can cause severe discomfort during the tension of the press. When it appears, it is necessary to contact the doctors and, with the help of a diagnostic examination, establish the cause of the ailment.

Muscle adaptation

The higher the gestational age of the fetus, the more the abdominal muscles lose their shape. Under the action of hormones, they stretch and relax, allowing the womb to grow and create favorable conditions for the development of the unborn child. As a result, it becomes impossible to strain the stomach. This situation occurs when the first trimester ends and the second begins. The presence of such a condition does not impose a ban on gymnastics for pregnant women.