Why does my abdomen feel tight and hard with mild pain at 17 weeks of pregnancy, and what should I do?

Generally, abdominal tightness and hardness accompanied by mild pain at 17 weeks of pregnancy may be caused by uterine expansion, fetal movement, round ligament tension, false labor contractions, or threatened miscarriage. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Uterine Expansion

During pregnancy, the uterus gradually enlarges to accommodate fetal growth, which may cause a sensation of tightness and hardness in the abdomen along with mild pain. Pregnant women should rest more, relax, and adopt comfortable positions.

2. Fetal Movement

Around the 17th week of pregnancy, the fetus begins to move, and sometimes fetal activity may cause abdominal discomfort and a feeling of tightness. Adequate rest and comfortable positioning can help until the fetal movements subside or stop.

3. Round Ligament Tension

As the pregnancy progresses and the uterus enlarges, the round ligaments of the uterus are stretched, which may cause abdominal discomfort, tightness, and mild pain. Appropriate rest and avoiding excessive exertion are recommended.

4. False Labor Contractions (Braxton Hicks Contractions)

During pregnancy, hormonal changes or fatigue may cause mild contractions of the uterine muscles, manifesting as abdominal tightness and hardness with mild pain. False contractions are typically irregular and do not progressively worsen. Rest, avoiding overexertion, and reducing emotional stress are advised.

5. Threatened Miscarriage

A threatened miscarriage is usually caused by abnormal embryonic development or hormonal imbalances. The uterus may contract in an attempt to expel the abnormal embryo, resulting in abdominal tightness, hardness, and pain, which may be accompanied by vaginal bleeding, lower back pain, or other symptoms. Treatment under a doctor's guidance may include medications such as progesterone capsules, Gu Shen An Tai Pills, or dydrogesterone tablets.

Pregnant women should maintain healthy lifestyle and dietary habits and undergo regular prenatal checkups to help ensure the health of both mother and baby.