Pregnancy brings about a wide array of brand new aches and pains. The most common complaints usually center on muscle cramps and spasms. As the belly grows, nearly all pregnant women suffer from pains in their lower stomach, which is often situated on the right hand side. Any stomach pain experienced should be reported to a doctor immediately, but it's rarely cause for alarm.
Identification
Pain in the lower right stomach can be sharp, dull or aching. All of these usually suggest round ligament pain, a sensation caused by the stretching of the ligaments in the lower abdomen.
Time Frame
Pregnant women usually experience round ligament pain from the sixth month onwards, and sometimes for several weeks past delivery.
Causes
Lower right stomach pain is often caused by the weight and pressure of the growing uterus. Muscles and ligaments that were once tight and strong are now stretched out and ineffective.
Solution
Round ligament pain can be lessened by moving to any comfortable position that removes pressure from abdominal muscles, such as sitting with the feet up. According to the National Institutes of Health, low potassium and dehydration may increase the severity of muscle pain.
Prevention
Pregnant woman can avoid round ligament pain by wearing a maternity belt or girdle. These devices spread the weight of the uterus to stronger areas, such as the back and hips.
Warning
Sharp pains that increase in intensity or do not response to rest, or are accompanied by bleeding or intestinal upset, should be reported to a doctor immediately.
