Pelvic pain during pregnancy is not unusual, especially in the first trimester. This is often just a side effect of the uterus growing in order to adapt to the increasing size of the child. However, this pain should be mild. If it is severe or accompanied by bleeding of any kind, you should immediately visit your doctor in order to rule out a more serious condition like a miscarriage. In this article, we gathered seven reasons for pelvic pain during pregnancy you shouldn’t ignore.

1. Miscarriage

Miscarriage can occur in one of four pregnancies in the United States. Most of them occur in the first trimester as a result of a genetic abnormality. More than 85 percent of miscarriages occur by the eighth week of pregnancy. The most common symptoms include mild or severe spotting, severe cramps in the abdominal area, and mild or severe back pain.

2. Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is a much more serious cause of pelvic pain during pregnancy. It is a condition when a fertilized egg grows outside the uterus. If you confirmed your pregnancy through a pregnancy test, but you haven’t had an ultrasound that proves that your pregnancy is located in the right place, pelvic pain may be the first symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. An ultrasound test that confirms that the pregnancy is developing in the uterus is the best way to rule out such a diagnosis.

3. Fetal movement

Movement of the fetus can sometimes cause a sharp or dull pain, which can last seconds or even hours. This pain can be present in the pelvic area, in any part of the abdomen, or under the ribs. Evaluating persistent pain under the ribs is especially important to rule out premature birth, gallstones, or preeclampsia, which can cause liver swelling. That’s why it is recommended to discuss any serious pain with your doctor.

4. Preterm labor

In about 10 percent of pregnancies, labor contractions begin before 37 weeks. This is a sign of premature childbirth. The most common symptoms include frequent and regular contractions of the uterus, pain in the lower abdomen and back, vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, and breaking water. You can help prevent and treat any of these symptoms that occur before 37 weeks with the help of hydration and medications to relax the uterus. However, if any of the symptoms persist, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible.

5. Actual labor

Pelvic pain during pregnancy can be a sign of childbirth. You may feel that you have menstrual cramps, which become stronger and longer. If a pregnant woman is beyond 37 weeks of pregnancy, there is nothing to worry about because it may be a sign of childbirth. But if you are under 37 weeks and have cramps more than four times per hour, your actual condition should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.

6. Constipation

Constipation is not a rare condition in pregnant women. Hormonal changes, a diet that is low in fluid or fiber, lack of exercise, iron pills, or stress can lead to constipation. The pain can be quite severe and it is often described as acute cramps or stitching pain. In order to get rid of constipation during pregnancy, you should drink plenty of water, stay physically active, maintain your dietary fiber and take into account stool softeners. 

7. Kidney stones or infection

Urinary tract infections can develop imperceptibly during pregnancy. They can spread to the kidneys and cause painful sensations. Kidney stones can also cause similar pain: A kidney stone that passes through the ureters can cayuse severe pain and be accompanied by fever and chills. Kidney infections can be dangerous for both pregnant women and children. That’s why they should be treated immediately.