Pregnancy is a special condition, and it is good if it proceeds without pathologies. But almost every pregnant woman complains about the feeling of discomfort that occurs in the lower abdomen.

During the conception of a baby, the body is completely rebuilt, and internal processes are reflected in the well-being of a woman. Most often, a pregnant woman feels how during pregnancy the stomach turns to stone or swells. Today we will talk about why the stomach becomes stony during pregnancy, what causes bloating, and how to eliminate these discomforts.

Why does the stomach stiffen during pregnancy

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.

Physiological processes

The abdomen can become stony with a fully filled 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.

Pathological processes

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.

When there is cause for concern

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 rigid belly beyond 35 weeks of gestation may be associated with 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.

Why does the belly swell during pregnancy?

Pregnant women often complain of bloating, which is sometimes accompanied by a feeling of pain and tingling in the intestinal area. Doctors explain this condition by the fact that a large amount of gases accumulate in the digestive tract of a pregnant woman. Bloating is dangerous because when the blood vessels of the uterus are squeezed, the supply of oxygen to the fetus is difficult.

With hormonal changes in the female body at the beginning of pregnancy, bloating is felt. Progesterone ensures the safety of pregnancy, relaxes the smooth muscles of the body. But since there are smooth muscles not only in the uterus, but also in other important organs, for example, in the digestive tract, relaxation starts everywhere. Since bloating bothers a pregnant woman already in the first trimester, some doctors call this phenomenon one of the symptoms of pregnancy. In fact, not all women experience swelling during pregnancy.

Causes

We list the key points that provoke bloating:

• uncomfortable clothes;
• nutrition;
• insufficient motor activity of a pregnant woman;
• bad habits;
• non-compliance with the drinking regime;
• chronic diseases of the digestive tract (gastritis, enzymatic disorders, duodenitis and dysbacteriosis).

How to eliminate bloating

To get rid of bloating during pregnancy, a woman should follow simple recommendations:

• Power mode correction. Bloating can be associated with eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. If the stomach stiffens during pregnancy due to bloating, it is advisable to stew or bake fruits and vegetables. It is also necessary to exclude spicy foods, carbonated drinks, sweets and starchy foods from the diet. You need to eat in small portions five to seven times a day. You need to drink clean water (at least one and a half liters per day).
• Physical activity- the main point on the way to the elimination of bloating without drugs. Active walks in the air, yoga and special gymnastics for pregnant women will increase the tone of the digestive tract.
• Wearing comfortable clothes for pregnant. When squeezing the abdominal area with elastic bands from tights and trousers, gases in the intestines stagnate, so clothes with inserts should be preferred.

If during pregnancy the stomach becomes stony, you need to give up bad habits, as they can also be the cause of increased organ tone. Take care of your well-being, take care of your future baby, be happy and healthy!

Pregnancy is a new, unusual state for a woman. And the sensations with which it is accompanied can disturb and frighten the expectant mother. Carrying a child is often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms - nausea, aching in the lower back, tingling pains in the lower abdomen.

One of the most common complaints is the feeling that the stomach turns to stone during pregnancy. Why is this happening?

Stomach tension 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?

Causes

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.

There are two main reasons why the stomach becomes stony during pregnancy:

• Changes in bowel function.
• Changes in muscle tone of the uterus.

Bowel dysfunction

Bearing a child is accompanied by a change in hormonal metabolism in a woman's body. For the progression of pregnancy, increased production of the female sex hormone, progesterone, is required. But an increase in progesterone levels contributes to the development of constipation due to a decrease in intestinal motility. It also leads to a violation of the diet by a pregnant woman, the use of sour, salty and spicy foods. In addition, many expectant mothers, fearing complications, stop physical activity, which also adversely affects the functioning of the intestines.

All this leads to bloating, thickening and pain. Excess gas in the intestines feels like a hard belly during pregnancy. This phenomenon often occurs in the early stages, when the woman's body did not have time to adapt to the ongoing changes. But sometimes bloating with discomfort occurs even after 30 weeks, when the growing uterus compresses the intestines and interferes with its normal functioning.

Changes in uterine tone

A woman's uterus is an organ made entirely of muscles. A change in muscle tone in any part of it will manifest itself as tension in the abdomen. This phenomenon is called uterine hypertonicity. For some reason, such a diagnosis was the most common in post-Soviet obstetrics and required immediate treatment, regardless of the reasons. In fact, uterine contractions do not always require medication.

Hypertonicity can be physiological and pathological. Physiological processes include:

• hypertension in the first half of pregnancy without other symptoms;
• false contractions;
• labor pains and labor pains.

Pathological processes, accompanied by compaction of the lower abdomen and pain, are a threat of abortion and detachment of a normally located placenta.

Hypertonicity in the first half of pregnancy

The uterus can contract at any time - in the first trimester, at 30-36 weeks or just before childbirth. A feature of hypertonicity in the early stages is that it is practically not felt by a woman due to the small size of the uterus. Sometimes its contraction is accompanied by aching pain in the lower back, as during menstruation, or a feeling that the lower abdomen has condensed. Most often, this diagnosis is established by ultrasound.

But is such hypertonicity a disease? Tension in the lower abdomen in the early stages, which is not accompanied by sharp, regular or increasing pain, and spotting, is a normal process. Any muscular organ in the human body periodically contracts and relaxes in response to some impact. And the uterus during pregnancy is no exception.

Often doctors of ultrasound diagnostics note hypertonicity of the posterior uterine wall. But this is an incorrect statement, since its thickness is normally greater than the anterior one, and this is not connected with the pathological tension of the uterus.

As the uterus grows, the lower abdomen will thicken more clearly. If this happens sporadically, irregularly, without sharp pain, there is no reason for alarm. When the uterus rises 7-10 cm above the pubis, its contraction can be determined visually. It usually looks like a rounded lump in the lower abdomen.

Physical exertion, stress, uncomfortable position, tight clothing, pressure on the lower abdomen lead to uterine hypertonicity.

false contractions

Starting from the 30th week, a woman may experience false contractions. Many pregnant women notice them in the second trimester, although at 16–20 weeks the intensity of such contractions is low.

False contractions, or Braxton-Hicks contractions, are essentially the same hypertonicity. They prepare the uterus for the birth process. False contractions are often painless and initially manifest as tension in the lower abdomen. As the uterus grows, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bdensification increases and captures the upper sections.

At 30–36 weeks, Braxton contractions can be accompanied by unpleasant and even painful sensations. But they are irregular, disappear at rest and are not accompanied by the opening of the cervix.

Birth pains

Labor pains are difficult to confuse with any other. The abdomen is tense and becomes like a stone. Such contractions are accompanied by pain. At the beginning of childbirth, it is mild or moderate, but then it quickly increases and becomes very intense by attempts.

A feature of labor pains is their regularity. They occur at regular intervals, which are gradually shortened. The tension of the uterus is necessarily replaced by its relaxation, during which the pain completely disappears. Often, the onset of labor pains is preceded by the outflow of amniotic fluid. In combination with regular tension of the uterus, this is the most accurate criterion for the onset of labor.

attempts

Attempts are the final stage of childbirth. In this period, intense uterine contractions and very strong abdominal tension are noted. Sometimes women have a feeling of pressure of a huge press on the abdominal wall. But this is a physiological process necessary for the normal and timely birth of a child.

As a rule, during the period of attempts, a pregnant woman is in the hospital under the supervision of a gynecologist and these changes should not frighten her. You just need to follow the instructions of the doctor or midwife.

Abortion

Pregnancy can be terminated at any time. An interruption before 22 weeks is called a miscarriage. After this milestone, preterm labor occurs, and the child has a chance to survive, especially if they occur at a period of 28-30 weeks and later.

The symptoms of threatened miscarriage and preterm birth are similar. These are sharp painful uterine contractions, in which the lower abdomen stiffens, vaginal spotting, and feeling unwell. The later the interruption occurs, the more intense the symptoms.

If at 28–30 weeks false contractions become regular, frequent and painful, this also indicates the threat of preterm labor and requires an immediate examination of the cervix.

Placental abruption

Placental abruption is a pathological process that disrupts the relationship between mother and child. With complete detachment, the pregnancy is terminated. In the later stages, placental abruption threatens the life of the child. Symptoms of detachment are tension in the lower abdomen, pain and brown discharge from the vagina. With internal accumulation of blood, discharge may be absent.

Placental abruption in the early stages can be stopped. A normal placenta will take over the function of the exfoliated part, and the child's condition will not suffer. In the later stages, in the middle and end of the third trimester, placental abruption is an indication for an urgent caesarean section.

First aid

Despite the frequent physiology of hypertonicity, a hard stomach during pregnancy requires a mandatory consultation with a doctor. If this is a single, irregular and painless symptom without spotting, then an examination by an obstetrician may be planned. A woman needs to rest more and worry less.

If the contractions of the uterus are painful, frequent and increase, accompanied by bleeding, these are indications for emergency hospitalization in a hospital.

Timely medical care provided with the threat of interruption and abruption of the placenta allows a woman to maintain a pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby on time.

A hard belly during pregnancy makes the expectant mother worry. We can talk about both the physiological norm and the pathology of pregnancy. It's not worth the hassle to see a doctor. Until then, steps can be taken to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Why does the stomach become hard during pregnancy and how does this affect the bearing of the fetus

A hard belly during pregnancy is a symptom of hypertonicity of the myometrium (middle muscle layer) of the uterus.

Most pregnant women experience an unpleasant phenomenon from personal experience, but the symptoms and localization can vary significantly. The reasons lie in the natural physiology of the pregnant woman or pathological manifestations.

Hard stomach during pregnancy: is it worth worrying about?

Any incomprehensible manifestation makes the expectant mother pretty worried. And here, after all, the matter is not limited to just a hardened stomach. The main symptom is accompanied by pain sensations of varying intensity, heaviness in the pubic and groin area, and in the later stages it sharpens, “gathers into a lump” and changes shape.

However, strong worries are unnecessary: ​​this condition is well studied and treated. In addition, stress can exacerbate the problem. So the situation must be approached rationally and consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Of course, additional examination is required:

• Ultrasound diagnostics to establish the nature of uterine hypertonicity, the state of the placenta and amniotic fluid, fetal development;
• checking hormonal status, excluding hidden infections;
• clarification of the characteristics of a woman's lifestyle.

The doctor will accurately determine the causes of the appearance of a hard abdomen and select the optimal tactics for managing a pregnant woman.

Most often, to normalize the condition, a short bed rest is sufficient, the connection of sedatives and hormonal drugs, antispasmodics, and correction of the daily routine of a pregnant woman.

The stomach turns to stone during pregnancy without pain: physiological causes

Sometimes abdominal tension appears without pain.

A painless course speaks in favor of physiological reasons (which does not at all exclude risks for gestation). Factors leading to a hard belly depend on the gestational age.

In the early stages

In the first trimester, an increase in tone leads to:

• natural changes in the tissues of the uterus, restructuring of the organ for bearing the fetus;
• a small uterus, "bicornuate", with a bend;
• lack of progesterone, which is produced by the corpus luteum of the ovaries in the first trimester;
• underdevelopment of the pelvic organs;
• Rhesus conflict in the blood of the mother and fetus;
• severe toxicosis, accompanied by frequent vomiting.

In the early stages, an increased uterine tone does not always turn into a hardening of the abdomen, and the pregnant woman learns about the problem at an examination by an obstetrician-gynecologist or ultrasound. The case may end in a miscarriage, so observation in the LCD is necessary from the first weeks of pregnancy.

At a later date

In the second and third semesters, everything is in sight: a hard stomach is a constant companion of uterine hypertonicity. Physiological discomfort leads to:

• multiple pregnancy;
• large fruit;
• polyhydramnios;
• long stay in one position, especially sitting;
• tight underwear;
• overfilled bladder;
• untimely bowel movements, flatulence, dyspeptic disorders.

Starting from the 20th week of gestation, the woman's body prepares for delivery. At this time, "training" bouts of Braxton-Higs are observed. The so-called false labor activity almost does not cause pain, but it leads to hardening of the abdomen.

At any time

Reasons that can have a negative impact throughout the entire period:

• early pregnancy (before 18 years) or late (after 35 years);
• stress, fear;
• unsatisfactory living conditions;
• sleep/wake disturbances;
• harmful working conditions;
• physical overload;
• sexual arousal, orgasm;
• drinking alcohol, smoking.

Each person has their own pain threshold. Therefore, the absence of pain during hardening of the abdomen does not always indicate the safety of manifestations for the course of pregnancy and fetal development.

With a relatively harmless origin, muscle tension is short-lived and appears immediately after exposure to the catalyst.

Pathological causes of the appearance of a stone abdomen

When pathological factors are connected, a hard stomach appears for no apparent reason. This happens quite often, and with the progression of the process, pain is connected. In some situations, the uterus is in increased tone most of the time.

Hypertonicity of the uterus is characterized by a variety of manifestations. There is local tension along the back or front wall, overstrain of the lower segment of the organ, a total increase in the tone of the uterine muscles.

The last two options are most often caused by malfunctions in the body and are fraught with serious consequences.

Stony lower abdomen

Starting from the 34th week of pregnancy, a hard belly with localization in the lower part serves as a harbinger of an approaching birth. But if the phenomenon is observed from the 20th week or even earlier, we can assume:

• exacerbation of chronic inflammation of the pelvic organs (cystitis, colpitis, adnexitis);
• infectious diseases of the genitourinary system (the same chlamydia);
• the woman "has caught a cold";
• the presence of tumor processes;
• incorrect position and presentation of the fetus;
• after 28 weeks - the opening of the cervix and the threat of premature birth.

What is dangerous "lower" hypertonicity

Unlike the walls of the uterus, the placenta does not contract, its anatomical location is disturbed, and the vital organ for the fetus begins to exfoliate much earlier than childbirth. Detachment provokes severe internal bleeding, dangerous to the life of a woman and a child.

The stomach becomes tight and does not go away for a long time

To increase uterine tone and harden the abdomen, one negative factor is enough, although serious situations are accompanied by a combination of living conditions, physiology and somatic features.

The basis of total hypertonicity are:

• problems with the central nervous system as a result of severe stress or prolonged neuropsychic overload;
• hormonal disruptions (for example, an increase in testosterone, a sharp release of oxytocin);
• autoimmune disorders;
• diabetes mellitus, thyroid dysfunction (hypo- and hyperthyroidism)
• cardiovascular disorders, circulatory problems;
• structural changes in the tissues of the uterus (for example, proliferation of endometrial tissues, polyps, fibroids);
• viral and acute respiratory diseases.

The danger of total hypertonicity

Pressure increases in the uterine cavity, muscle structures are displaced relative to the child's place, compression of the fibers leads to disruptions in placental blood flow. As a result, the fetus experiences nutritional and oxygen starvation, its development slows down.

Of course, an increased tone in itself will not lead to deformities and a severe lag in the development of a newborn. But miscarriages and premature births in case of a serious problem are real.

What to do

If the petrification of the abdomen occurs occasionally, for example, "trampled" at the stove, overzealous with work or walks, this phenomenon is not dangerous. Here the recommendations of obstetrician-gynecologists come down to elementary peace and good rest.

Enough to lie down and relax. The recommended position is on the back with a small roll under the legs. The effect will be enhanced by calm, melodic music, the sounds of nature. Normally, after 10-15 minutes, the discomfort goes away. But it is better to extend the rest to 1-1.5 hours, but in the future you will have to be more careful.

When medical supervision is required

Moreover, medical care is needed as quickly as possible, so the family should dial the emergency number. Alarm bells:

• tension in the abdomen does not go away for at least an hour;
• There is a pain syndrome, and it is growing. Pain radiates to the lumbosacral region, rectum and perineum;
• aching sensations in the lower abdomen, brownish or bloody vaginal discharge (even if slight);
• weakness, nausea, vomiting, increase or decrease in body temperature;
• cramping manifestations: single or at regular intervals;
• urge to defecate.

What to do before the doctor arrives

First you need to calm down, then breathe slowly. If the condition allows, do the sleepy cat exercise:

• Get on all fours.
• Raise your head and gently bend your lower back literally 10-15 cm.
• In this position, linger for 4-8 seconds (breathing is even and calm, moderately deep).

After that, you need to take a reclining position on your back and relax your facial and neck muscles, lower back.

With the threat of gestation, stationary observation is offered. You should not be afraid of this: modern methods of treatment are safe for the fetus and the woman herself. But the refusal of hospitalization can lead to a miscarriage or a pathological course of pregnancy.

Prevention

The appearance of a hard abdomen during pregnancy can and should be prevented. It is desirable that the pregnancy was not only desired, but also planned.

In this case, you can undergo a preliminary medical examination, including:

It is desirable that the father of the unborn child is also examined, because almost half of the problems during pregnancy are caused by men.

Most likely, you will have to revise the diet, enriching it with the necessary nutrients and vitamins. To give up bad habits is a priori, and the usual routine should be diversified with elements of a healthy lifestyle.

Breathing exercises

It is necessary for a pregnant woman to master the correct breathing. It will help not only to remove the hardening of the abdomen, but will facilitate the course of childbirth, reduce pain. Here are two very effective exercises:

1. Chest breathing. It is well known to women, because it is an innate way of breathing of the beautiful half. And yet, for pregnancy, it should be corrected. So, hands on the sides under the ribs. Take a deep breath through your nose and generously fill your chest with air. Gradually exhale gently.
2. Diaphragmatic breathing. The right palm is on the stomach, the left one is under the chest (for left-handers, vice versa). A quick and sharp breath is taken through the nose so that the diaphragm descends, protruding involuntarily the stomach. Exhale calmly through your mouth or nose. Break 1-2 seconds and repeat the cycle.

Well relieves tension in the abdomen breathing like a dog. To do this, you need to open your mouth, stick out your tongue and breathe, as our four-legged friends do in the heat.

swimming

Swimming during pregnancy is a fashion trend. And not by chance. In water, absolutely all muscle groups relax, the work of all body systems normalizes, and the emotional background stabilizes.

Well, it’s better to forget about sports records for 9 months. During pregnancy, will relieve hardening of the abdomen and will benefit from calm swimming, preferably in small groups.

Gymnastics

These are not acrobatic rings and parallel bars, not triple somersaults and somersaults. There are special complexes developed by sports doctors in collaboration with obstetricians:

• for each trimester;
• taking into account the general physical preparation of the woman and the course of pregnancy.

You can do it in groups at antenatal clinics or at home. In the second case, it is recommended to discuss the gymnastic complex with a doctor, since there are restrictions on physical activity for expectant mothers.

A pregnant woman watches with interest the changes in her body, rejoices at her growing tummy and every second feels unity with her baby. But preparing for motherhood brings a lot of worries. Some of them are far-fetched, but a hard belly during pregnancy is not from this series.

Even a slight hypertonicity of the uterus, albeit physiological, is a reason for checking in the antenatal clinic. Only after eliminating the threat of miscarriage and pregnancy pathologies, you can connect home prevention.

Useful video

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 inguinal region, 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 to the stomach 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:

1. Brown, bloody discharge (may indicate placental abruption).
2. Violent cramping, constricting pains in the abdomen.
3. The woman notices that fetal movements have become rare or they are completely absent.
4. Contractions appear constantly and are combined with pain in the lower spine.
5. The discharge is copious and watery.
6. 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!

After a woman learns about her situation, she begins to closely monitor the changes taking place in her body. Any changes alarm the pregnant woman. One of the changes in the condition is a hard stomach. During pregnancy, almost all women notice this. If other troubles are added to this, then there are fears whether this is normal. A hard stomach indicates a threat of gestation, therefore, with the slightest change, you should consult your doctor.

Hard lower abdomen during pregnancy

A hardened lower abdomen is a direct sign of uterine hypertonicity.

Increased uterine tone requires immediate treatment. In order not to aggravate the situation, you do not need to worry and introduce the body into a stressful state.

A timely visit to the doctor will help cure this ailment.

A hard belly is often seen in women at 40 weeks pregnant or during the second trimester. Symptoms indicating pathology:

1. 1. Feeling of heaviness.
2. 2. Pain in the genital area.
3. 3. Pain in the sacrum and lower back.
4. 4. Lower expansion.

The state of hardness does not always pose a danger to a pregnant woman and her unborn child. If the stomach at the 32nd week of pregnancy does not become stiff all the time, and there is no pain, then there is no need to worry. In such cases, doctors recommend relaxing, taking a comfortable position, and after a while, an unpleasant state will lower the pregnant woman.

When should you see a doctor:

1. 1. Permanent curing. The state is not released for a long time.
2. 2. The abdomen became stiff and there were pains in the lower back, coccyx, sacrum, intestines, reminiscent of sensations during menstruation.
3. 3. Brown or bloody discharge from the vagina.
4. 4. If unpleasant and painful sensations in the abdomen occur constantly.
5. 5. Fainting, nausea and vomiting appeared.
6. 6. There were false urges to defecate.

Below is a table that shows the duration of pregnancy and the condition of a woman with a hardening of the abdomen. The table indicates when to see a doctor for help:

Hard belly in the early stages

The first weeks of pregnancy are the most dangerous time for a woman and her baby. A hard stomach at such times is not dangerous if this condition does not last more than a week, and bloody discharge does not come from the vagina.

Be sure to consult with your doctor if you observe changes in your body.

At this time, you should rest and relax more, avoid stressful situations. If a pregnant woman has hardening in the early stages, then this indicates that spasms occur in the muscle tissues of the uterus, which lead to increased tone.

Hypertonicity of the uterus leads to the following dangers:

1. 1. Decreased placental circulation. The embryo will receive less oxygen and will undergo hypoxia.
2. 2. Detachment of the placenta or fetal egg.
3. 3. Termination of pregnancy.
4. 4. Premature birth.

Stiffness of the abdomen in the later stages and before childbirth

When the baby grows up, he begins his vigorous activity. In the later stages, you can detect the hardness of the abdomen on only one side. This condition occurs when the child puts forward the legs, arms and other parts of the body.

The threat of uterine hypertonicity can last until the end of pregnancy. Therefore, with frequent hardening of the abdomen, you should consult a doctor.

If a woman feels bloating and tightness of the abdomen, then it is necessary to review the daily diet. Improper nutrition leads to flatulence and bloating. You should eat less foods that tend to form gases.

Starting in the second trimester, some pregnant women may experience exercise contractions that lead to tension and cramps in the lower abdomen. This condition does not pose a threat, after a while such contractions disappear.

If there is little time left before the birth, then the firmness of the abdomen becomes a harbinger of an early delivery.

Causes of hardness

The abdomen becomes tight for various reasons. And sometimes they are not directly related to pregnancy.

The main reasons that serve as the formation of trouble can be the following:

1. 1. Fatigue.
2. 2. Full bladder.
3. 3. Emotional overstrain.
4. 4. Viral diseases.
5. 5. Inflammation of the genitourinary system.
6. 6. Polyhydramnios.
7. 7. Violation of the hormonal background.
8. 8. Large fruit.
9. 9. Pathologies in the pelvic organs.
10. 10. Incorrect work of the gastrointestinal tract.
11. 11. The uterus is small.
12. 12. Drinking alcohol and smoking.
13. 13. Long stay in the same position (in the morning and at night, when the pregnant woman lies on one side for a long time).

How to get rid of the disease

A hard belly gives a pregnant woman a lot of stress and worries about the baby's body and her safety.

If stiffness appears, even if it is not accompanied by pain and other unpleasant sensations, a pregnant woman at any time should consult a gynecologist.

To relieve stress, you can use the following methods:

1. 1. Change in body position.
2. 2. Taking a warm shower.
3. 3. Correct breathing exercises. Deep entry and slow exhalation.
4. 4. Herbal soothing decoctions (motherwort, valerian).

In the absence of a threat of termination of pregnancy, a woman should rest more, eat right and relax. The symptom of a hard abdomen tends to appear periodically.

You should not be afraid of such a condition, it does not pose a danger to either the woman or the baby. The threat occurs if the stomach remains hard for a long time, blood discharge appears. In this case, the doctor prescribes the appropriate treatment for the condition.

Eliminate the increased tone of the uterus in the early stages by conducting therapy with antispasmodic drugs (Drotaverine, Papaverine). After 16 weeks of pregnancy, you can use Ginipral. Your doctor may prescribe hormone therapy with progesterone.

During treatment, constant monitoring of the unborn child is necessary. If deviations are found, then drugs are added to the therapy that improve blood flow and increase the flow of oxygen and nutrition to the fetus.

After treatment of the increased tone of the uterus, the feeling of stiffness and pain in the abdomen basically does not visit the pregnant woman anymore.

It happens that the stomach can grab suddenly. In such situations, you should take two No-Shpa tablets, lie on your side and call an ambulance.

A hard belly during pregnancy is an unpleasant sensation that occurs more than once during the entire period of bearing the unborn baby. Sometimes this condition does not pose a particular danger, but the gynecologist leading the pregnancy should be aware of this.

If you experience constant hardness of the abdomen for a long time, sharp pains, blood discharge, you should consult a doctor for adequate treatment. This is necessary in order to prevent miscarriage, fetal hypoxia and premature birth.