What causes contractions with pain at 34 weeks of pregnancy?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
In the late stages of pregnancy, the uterine muscles are more sensitive, and prolonged standing or walking may trigger irregular uterine contractions, causing abdominal pain and discomfort. Preterm labor may also occur due to factors such as excessive expansion of the uterine cavity, stress response, or intrauterine infection, leading to uterine contractions accompanied by pain. Additionally, gastroenteritis can stimulate gastrointestinal spasms and uterine contractions, resulting in the aforementioned symptoms.
At 34 weeks of pregnancy, uterine contractions accompanied by pain are often caused by physiological reasons such as false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks contractions), which are normal phenomena. However, they may also result from pathological conditions such as preterm labor or gastroenteritis. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Physiological Causes
In late pregnancy, the uterine muscles become more sensitive. Prolonged standing or walking may trigger irregular uterine contractions, leading to mild abdominal pain or discomfort. These contractions are typically brief, weak in intensity, and improve with rest.
2. Pathological Causes
a. Preterm Labor
At 34 weeks of gestation, preterm labor may be triggered by factors such as excessive uterine distension, stress response, or intrauterine infection. This condition presents with painful uterine contractions and may be accompanied by vaginal bleeding. Under medical guidance, medications such as magnesium sulfate or nifedipine tablets can be used to suppress contractions and support continuation of the pregnancy.
b. Gastroenteritis
Consuming contaminated food during late pregnancy may lead to gastroenteritis. The inflammation can cause gastrointestinal spasms that stimulate uterine contractions, resulting in symptoms similar to those described, often accompanied by diarrhea. Under a doctor's supervision, medications such as montmorillonite powder or Simo Decoction oral liquid may be taken to relieve symptoms.
In addition to the above causes, pelvic inflammatory disease, placental abruption, or impending uterine rupture could also be responsible. It is recommended to get adequate rest, avoid sexual intercourse, and seek evaluation and treatment at a hospital obstetrics and gynecology department to determine the underlying cause.
