The due date has passed, and the abdomen has been continuously feeling hard and tight.

Generally, if the due date has passed and the abdomen remains hard and tight, it may be caused by false labor contractions, true contractions, fetal hypoxia, acute gastroenteritis, peritonitis, etc. Relief measures should be taken according to the specific situation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. False Labor Contractions (Braxton Hicks Contractions)

Prior to the onset of labor, increased sensitivity of the uterine muscle layer may lead to irregular contractions. These can manifest as a hard and tight abdomen, typically without regularity or periodicity, do not progress, and resolve quickly.

2. Labor Contractions

When entering active labor, the uterus contracts rhythmically. During contractions, the uterus and abdomen become hard, accompanied by pain. The abdomen softens during the intervals between contractions, and pain subsides. If preterm labor contractions occur before the due date, medications such as ritodrine hydrochloride tablets, atosiban acetate injection, or dexamethasone injection may be used under medical guidance to suppress contractions and promote fetal lung maturation. Once the due date is reached, it is advisable to go to the hospital for delivery preparation.

3. Fetal Hypoxia

In late pregnancy, intrauterine hypoxia may cause frequent fetal movements and a persistently tight, hard abdomen. Timely oxygen therapy under medical supervision is necessary. Resting in a left lateral position helps increase blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus. In severe cases, cesarean section may be required to terminate the pregnancy.

4. Acute Gastroenteritis

Consuming raw, cold, or contaminated food may lead to acute gastroenteritis, causing dull, irregular abdominal pain and a hard, tight feeling in the abdomen. This is often accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Under medical guidance, medications such as montmorillonite powder or compound berberine tablets may be used.

5. Peritonitis

This refers to an inflammatory response of the peritoneum and abdominal cavity caused by bacterial infection, chemical irritation, or physical injury. Patients may experience abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Physical examination may reveal a board-like rigidity of the abdomen (board-like abdomen). Some patients may even develop impaired consciousness or coma. In such cases, treatment with antibiotics such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection or cefoperazone sodium for injection should be administered under medical supervision.

In summary, a persistently hard and tight abdomen after the due date may result from various factors. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation if these symptoms occur after the expected delivery date. Additionally, if symptoms are caused by an underlying disease, medication use must be approached with great caution.