What are the causes of mild pain in the lower left abdomen during pregnancy?

Apr 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Mild pain in the lower left abdomen during pregnancy may be caused by uterine enlargement stretching the ligaments, constipation, threatened miscarriage, cystitis, or adnexitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Pregnant women are advised to soak their feet before bedtime and consume warming foods such as brown sugar and ginger soup. Maintaining a positive mood may also help reduce the occurrence of this symptom.

Generally speaking, mild pain in the lower left abdomen during pregnancy may be caused by uterine enlargement stretching ligaments, constipation, threatened miscarriage, cystitis, or adnexitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Uterine enlargement stretching ligaments: As the fetus develops, the uterus gradually enlarges, which may stretch the surrounding supportive ligaments, leading to mild pain in the lower left abdomen. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and usually not a cause for concern. Pregnant women are advised to change body positions frequently, avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods, and apply warm compresses to the abdomen to relieve discomfort.

2. Constipation: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, combined with uterine pressure, can make constipation common. Symptoms may include mild left lower abdominal pain, difficulty passing stool, and dry bowel movements. Pregnant women should drink plenty of water, maintain moderate physical activity such as yoga or walking, and promote intestinal motility.

3. Threatened miscarriage: This may result from factors such as fetal chromosomal abnormalities or maternal endocrine disorders. Threatened miscarriage often causes abnormal uterine contractions, leading to mild pain in the lower left abdomen. Other symptoms may include vaginal bleeding and backache. Pregnant women should strictly follow medical advice and take medications such as Baotai Ling Capsules, Yunkang Oral Liquid, or Antai Pills as prescribed.

4. Cystitis: This may be caused by poor personal hygiene or uterine compression of the ureters. Bacterial infection can damage the bladder lining, triggering reflexive pain in nearby nerves, resulting in mild left lower abdominal pain. Symptoms may also include urgency and pain during urination. Pregnant women should follow medical instructions and use medications such as Relinqing Granules or Amoxicillin Granules as directed.

5. Adnexitis: This condition may be associated with unhygienic sexual practices or bacterial infections. Inflammation typically causes congestion of the fallopian tubes and thinning of the tube walls, potentially causing mild pain in the lower left abdomen. Additional symptoms may include fever and increased vaginal discharge. Pregnant women should use medications such as Puliu Penyan Kang Granules or Azithromycin Tablets under a doctor’s supervision.

In daily life, pregnant women are advised to soak their feet before bedtime and consume warming foods such as brown sugar and ginger soup. Maintaining a positive mood may also help reduce the occurrence of these symptoms.