Why does the rib cage hurt during breathing in late pregnancy?

In general, rib pain during breathing in the late stages of pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, fetal movement, cholecystitis, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and other factors. Symptomatic treatment can be provided based on the specific cause. The detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

During late pregnancy, hormone levels in the pregnant woman's body change significantly, especially increased levels of progesterone and progestin. These hormonal changes can lead to relaxation of muscles and ligaments, weakening the supportive structures around the ribs and thereby causing pain during breathing. This is a normal condition and does not require treatment.

2. Fetal Movement

In late pregnancy, the frequency of fetal movements increases. Sometimes kicking or stretching movements of the fetus may directly affect the rib area, causing rib pain during breathing. It is recommended to gently stroke the abdomen to soothe the fetus.

3. Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an inflammatory condition of the gallbladder, usually caused by gallstones, infection, or impaired gallbladder emptying. When the gallbladder becomes inflamed, it may enlarge and exert pressure on surrounding organs and nerves. This pressure can cause pain in nearby areas, including the upper right abdomen and the rib region. As the pregnant woman's uterus enlarges and begins to compress abdominal organs, this pain may worsen. Pregnant women can take medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection or cefixime capsules under medical supervision.

4. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is a liver disease caused by infection with hepatitis viruses. Liver inflammation and hepatocyte damage caused by viral hepatitis may lead to liver swelling, which exerts pressure on surrounding structures and nerves. Liver enlargement may result in pain and discomfort in the rib area. Pregnant women can take medications such as vitamin C tablets or Huangdan Yinchen granules under medical supervision.

5. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive liver disease characterized by gradual replacement of healthy liver tissue with fibrous tissue. This fibrosis causes the liver to become stiff and its function to decline. In advanced cirrhosis, changes and enlargement of the liver can exert pressure on surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and nerves, potentially leading to pain and discomfort in the rib area. Pregnant women can take medications such as glucurolactone tablets or ademetionine disulfate tosylate for injection under medical supervision.

If a pregnant woman experiences severe rib pain, she should seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and treatment.