What does it mean when there is intermittent dull pain in the lower abdomen near delivery?

If a pregnant woman experiences mild abdominal pain close to her due date, it is generally caused by labor onset, false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks contractions), placental abruption, or other reasons. It is recommended that the pregnant woman visit a正规 hospital to complete relevant examinations, clarify the diagnosis, and receive timely and effective symptomatic treatment under medical guidance. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Labor Onset

If the symptoms involve relatively regular, episodic pain that gradually increases in duration, shortens in intervals, and intensifies in intensity without relief, this may indicate uterine contractions associated with childbirth. This may also be accompanied by vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, softening and shortening of the cervical canal, and progressive dilation of the cervix. It is recommended that the pregnant woman promptly go to the hospital for further examination and evaluation to determine whether hospitalization for delivery is necessary. In addition, the pregnant woman should adjust her mindset, avoid excessive emotional stress and anxiety, and maintain appropriate nutrition to conserve energy and prepare for childbirth.

2. False Labor Contractions (Braxton Hicks Contractions)

In late pregnancy, increased sensitivity of the uterine muscle layer may lead to irregular uterine contractions. Pregnant women usually feel mild pain. Some may experience frequent urination or constipation. This is a normal phenomenon. Resting in bed, changing body positions appropriately, and gently touching the abdomen may help reduce the frequency and intensity of contractions. Regular prenatal checkups should be continued. Close monitoring of fetal heart rate and fetal movement changes is recommended, but medication intervention is generally not required.

3. Placental Abruption

If mild abdominal pain progressively worsens into severe pain, the abdomen feels hard upon touch, and is accompanied by vaginal bleeding, premature rupture of membranes should be suspected. If the area of membrane detachment is large, it may cause massive hemorrhage and a noticeable sensation of uterine pressure. After premature rupture of membranes, if the detached area is small, the fetus may still survive, but is at high risk of hypoxia and asphyxia. Even if delivery is successful, the mother may experience postpartum hemorrhage due to inadequate uterine contractions.

Besides the above relatively common causes, other possible reasons include gastritis, enteritis, which may also be accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation. If pain occurs in the lower right abdomen, appendicitis or other surgical conditions should also be considered, and prompt medical evaluation is advised.