It’s pretty standard to experience a lot of different aches and pains throughout pregnancy. However, when you feel pain on your left side, it can be alarming.

You might wonder whether you should be worried, call your doctor, or what you can do to alleviate it.

Here, you’ll learn the common causes of pain on the left side of your stomach during pregnancy and some helpful tips for relief.

Causes of Pain

1. Round Ligament Pain

One of the most common causes of pain on the left side of your stomach during pregnancy is round ligament pain. This pain is caused by stretching and pulling of the ligaments that support your growing uterus. Round ligament pain is sharp and usually felt in the lower abdomen or hip area.

This type of pelvic ligament pain usually occurs in the second trimester and worsens as your pregnancy progresses.

You can ease round ligament pain by taking shallow breaths or lying on your left side.

2. Gas and Constipation

Another common cause of abdominal pain during pregnancy is gas and constipation, which you may experience on your left side. The progesterone hormone during pregnancy slows down your digestive system, making it difficult to pass gas and stools.

To relieve gas and constipation, increase your intake of fiber and water, eat smaller meals, and avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.

3. Ectopic Pregnancy

It’s important to note that pain on the left side of your stomach during pregnancy can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy. This occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention.

Other symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include vaginal bleeding, shoulder or lower abdominal pain, and dizziness.

4. Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) may cause pain on your left side during pregnancy. UTIs are more common during pregnancy due to the pressure on your kidneys and bladder.

Symptoms of a UTI include pain during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy urine.

Drinking plenty of fluids and taking antibiotics can cure UTIs during pregnancy.

5. Preterm Labor

Finally, pain on your left side during pregnancy could be a sign of preterm labor. Preterm labor occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy and can lead to premature birth.

Other signs of preterm labor include contractions, cramps, and vaginal bleeding.

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

When should I worry about left-side pain in pregnancy?

Pain on the left side during early pregnancy can be a shared experience. It’s usually due to your growing uterus and other changes happening in your body. This pain often starts around 14 weeks into your pregnancy and can continue into the later stages.

However, it’s essential to know when this pain might be a signal that something’s not right. If you’re experiencing severe pain, fever or chills, vaginal bleeding, or feelings of faintness or lightheadedness, it’s time to call your doctor.

Also, if the pain doesn’t go away when you change your position, rest, or pass gas, it’s a good idea to contact a healthcare professional for advice.

Remember, while some discomfort is regular, intense or ongoing pain is not. Always listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if something doesn’t feel right. Your health and well-being, as well as your baby’s, are what matter most.

When should I worry about left-side pain?

Are you experiencing a bit of left-side stomach pain in pregnancy yet? That’s quite common, and usually, it’s not a big concern. It can be due to something as simple as gas or indigestion. In most cases, this kind of discomfort goes away on its own. Isn’t that a relief?

Let’s talk about when you might need to get more serious about it. You know your body better than anyone else, so if the pain is severe or comes with other symptoms, it’s time to reach out for help.

Imagine you’re also feeling feverish or having chills – that’s a sign to call your doctor immediately. Changes in your bowel patterns, blood in your urine, or if your abdomen feels tender to touch also signal that you should seek medical attention.

And what if the stomach pain still doesn’t go away, even after a few days? That’s another time when it’s essential to contact a healthcare professional.

What is the sharp shooting pain on my left side during pregnancy?

This pain could be due to round ligament pain, a common occurrence during pregnancy. The round ligament is a muscle that supports the uterus, and as your baby grows, this round ligament pains and stretches.

This stretching can cause a sharp, stabbing pain or a dull ache in your lower abdomen, often on the left side. It’s usually felt when you change positions or flick.

Does left-side pain mean ectopic pregnancy?

Ectopic pregnancies happen when a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, often in one of the fallopian tubes. This can cause pain on one side of your belly, the left side in some cases. The pain can range from mild and dull to severe and sharp.

But remember, left-side pain doesn’t always mean an ectopic pregnancy. There are many other reasons why you might feel discomfort on your left side.

Is it normal to have growing pain on the left side during pregnancy?

As your baby grows inside you, your body has to adapt and change.

One of those changes involves your round ligaments. These are bands of tissue that support your uterus. As your uterus expands, these ligaments stretch and can cause what some people describe as “growing pains.” This can feel like a sharp twinge or a dull ache, often on one side of your lower belly.

Digestive issues, such stomach pains such as gas and bloating, can also lead to discomfort on your left side. And let’s not forget about the extra pressure your growing uterus puts on your organs. This can also cause some aches and pains.

Pain On Left Side Of Stomach While Pregnant Conclusion

In summary, pain on the left side of your stomach during pregnancy can have many causes. Round ligament pain, gas and constipation, ectopic pregnancy, urinary tract infections, and preterm labor are some of the common causes.

If you experience pain on your left side, you should always call your healthcare provider to rule out any potentially serious conditions. With early diagnosis and treatment, many complications can be prevented, and you can enjoy a healthy pregnancy.