What causes a pregnant woman's abdomen to feel hard?

Generally speaking, a hardening of the abdomen during pregnancy may be caused by uterine contractions, fetal movement, threatened miscarriage, placental abruption, or uterine fibroids. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Uterine contractions: During pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, uterine contractions commonly occur. These typically manifest as abdominal hardening without significant discomfort. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and usually not a cause for concern. However, if contractions become increasingly frequent, prompt medical evaluation is advised.

2. Fetal movement: When the fetus moves within the uterine cavity, it may stimulate the uterine wall, causing temporary contraction of the uterine smooth muscle, which leads to abdominal hardening. Pregnant women are advised to gently stroke their abdomen, rest adequately, stay relaxed, and avoid excessive tension or anxiety.

3. Threatened miscarriage: Often associated with genetic or endocrine factors, a threatened miscarriage can cause abnormal uterine contractions, leading to abdominal hardening. Symptoms may also include vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. It is recommended that pregnant women seek immediate medical care and, under a doctor’s supervision, use medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, progesterone injection, or Baotai Wuyou tablets to support the pregnancy.

4. Placental abruption: This may be related to abdominal trauma or sudden increases in uterine venous pressure. When the placenta detaches from the uterine wall, it can lead to intrauterine bleeding and strong uterine contractions. The pregnant woman may experience persistent abdominal hardening, severe abdominal pain, and vaginal bleeding. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as Compound Salvia Pills, Yimucao Granules, or folic acid tablets. In severe cases, termination of pregnancy may be necessary.

5. Uterine fibroids: Abdominal hardening may result from the growth or degeneration of uterine fibroids during pregnancy. Fibroid changes can stimulate the uterine smooth muscle, causing abdominal hardening along with symptoms such as abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. It is generally recommended that women seek treatment after delivery, typically through myomectomy.

In daily life, pregnant women are advised to soak their feet before bedtime and consume warming foods such as brown sugar and ginger soup. They should avoid overexertion to prevent stimulating the uterus, maintain a relaxed and positive mindset, and practice deep breathing exercises, all of which may help alleviate abdominal hardening.