What could cause mild abdominal pain at 23 weeks of pregnancy?
Under normal circumstances, mild abdominal pain at 23 weeks of pregnancy may be caused by factors such as a cold abdomen, improper diet, uterine contractions, nerve compression, or threatened miscarriage. Specific details are as follows:
1. Cold abdomen
Wearing insufficient clothing in cold weather or kicking off covers during sleep may lead to a cold abdomen, potentially causing mild abdominal pain at 23 weeks of pregnancy. Some individuals may also experience bloating and loss of appetite.
2. Improper diet
At 23 weeks of pregnancy, failure to maintain a balanced diet—such as frequently consuming raw, cold, spicy, or irritating foods, or overeating—can increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract and lead to indigestion. Typical symptoms may include mild abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Uterine contractions
Regular uterine contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are a normal physiological response. When they occur at 23 weeks of pregnancy, they may cause mild lower abdominal discomfort.
4. Nerve compression
As pregnancy progresses, the growing fetus causes the uterus to enlarge, which may compress abdominal nerves, resulting in mild lower abdominal pain at 23 weeks of pregnancy.
5. Threatened miscarriage
Pregnant women at 23 weeks who experience emotional instability, engage in vigorous exercise, or suffer strong abdominal impacts may be at risk of threatened miscarriage, which can present with symptoms such as mild abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding.
In summary, if any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment to prevent adverse outcomes.