Causes of mild lower abdominal pain during walking in pregnancy

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Mild lower abdominal pain during walking in pregnancy may be caused by uterine enlargement with stretching of surrounding ligaments, ligament relaxation, intestinal spasms, threatened miscarriage, or adnexitis. Symptoms can be improved through adequate rest, adjusting posture, or medication. If the pain worsens or is accompanied by vaginal bleeding, prompt medical attention is necessary. During pregnancy, the uterus gradually enlarges, stretching the surrounding ligamentous tissues.

During pregnancy, mild lower abdominal pain while walking may be caused by uterine enlargement and stretching, ligament relaxation, intestinal spasms, threatened miscarriage, or adnexitis. Symptoms can be improved through adequate rest, adjusting posture, or medication. If the pain worsens or is accompanied by vaginal bleeding, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Uterine enlargement and stretching: As the uterus gradually enlarges during pregnancy, it stretches surrounding ligaments. This stretching intensifies during walking, causing mild dull pain, usually felt as slight distension on one or both sides. It is recommended to slow down while walking, avoid prolonged walking, and stop immediately to rest when pain occurs, thereby reducing ligament strain.

2. Ligament relaxation: Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause pelvic ligaments to relax. As body weight shifts during walking, relaxed ligaments are less able to stabilize organs, leading to mild lower abdominal discomfort. It is advisable to wear flat, comfortable shoes, maintain an upright posture while walking, and avoid bending over or sudden twisting movements to reduce discomfort.

3. Intestinal spasm: Gastrointestinal function weakens during pregnancy. Abdominal movement or exposure to cold during walking may trigger spasms of the smooth muscles in the intestines, resulting in intermittent mild lower abdominal pain, possibly accompanied by bloating. It is recommended to keep the abdomen warm while walking, avoid walking on an empty stomach, and consume light, easily digestible meals to minimize intestinal irritation.

4. Threatened miscarriage: Factors such as fatigue or hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy may lead to threatened miscarriage, characterized by mild lower abdominal pain while walking, along with slight vaginal bleeding and backache. Under medical guidance, medications such as dydrogesterone tablets, progesterone capsules, or Bushen Antai Pills may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Adnexitis: Reduced immunity during pregnancy may allow bacterial infection to cause inflammation of the adnexa. Inflammatory stimulation results in mild lower abdominal pain during walking, often accompanied by increased vaginal discharge and a sensation of heaviness in the lower abdomen. Under medical supervision, medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or Gynecological Qianjin Tablets may be used to relieve symptoms.

Maintain a slow and steady walking pace to avoid fatigue, wear loose and comfortable clothing, eat a balanced and nutritious diet, stay emotionally positive, and attend regular prenatal checkups to support a healthy and stable pregnancy.

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