What causes stomach pain at 36 weeks of pregnancy?

　　Under normal circumstances, stomach pain at 36 weeks of pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, compression due to uterine enlargement, improper diet, gastritis, peptic ulcer, and other factors. Symptomatic management such as general treatment and medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Hormonal Changes

　　Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, especially increased progesterone, may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to gastric acid reflux and causing stomach pain, possibly accompanied by heartburn, discomfort behind the breastbone, and other symptoms. Pregnant women are advised to avoid high-fat and spicy foods and maintain an upright posture while eating to help alleviate symptoms.

　　2. Compression due to Uterine Enlargement

　　As pregnancy progresses, the uterus gradually enlarges and may compress surrounding organs, including the stomach, causing a sensation of stomach pain. Symptoms may include indigestion, stomach bloating, acid reflux, and others. Pregnant women are advised to eat small, frequent meals, avoid overeating, and sleep in a left lateral position.

　　3. Improper Diet

　　In the late stages of pregnancy, if excessive spicy, greasy, or irritating foods are consumed, these may irritate the gastric mucosa, resulting in excessive gastric acid secretion or damage to the gastric mucosa, thereby causing stomach pain, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as gastric burning and acid reflux. It is recommended to adjust the diet, choosing bland and easily digestible foods such as vegetables, fruits, and porridge.

　　4. Gastritis

　　Hormonal changes and stress during pregnancy may weaken the protective function of the gastric mucosal barrier, making it more susceptible to gastric acid irritation and resulting in gastritis. Symptoms may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as复合 protease capsules (Compound Rennet Capsules), potassium citrate bismuth tablets (Citric Acid Bismuth Potassium Tablets), and colloidal pectin bismuth capsules (Colloidal Pectin Bismuth Capsules) to relieve symptoms.

　　5. Peptic Ulcer

　　Increased gastric acid secretion during pregnancy, combined with uterine compression, may cause gastric mucosal injury and lead to peptic ulcers, causing stomach pain. Pregnant women may also experience intensified pain after meals and weight loss. It is recommended to use medications such as esomeprazole magnesium enteric-coated tablets, rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets, and lansoprazole tablets under medical guidance for treatment.

　　Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital to timely monitor their health status and fetal development.