Stomach pains in pregnancy are normal, but when do you know if they’re a cause for concern? Learn about the most common pregnancy pains and what you can expect.

Stomach Pains in Pregnancy at 7 Months

Stomach pains in pregnancy are common, especially as your pregnancy progresses. This is usually because the muscles throughout your abdomen are stretching, along with the ligaments in your pelvis. Additionally, your organs are all being squeezed and moved around, applying pressure to your ribs, stomach, and diaphragm. All this moving and stretching can cause discomfort.

Contractions

Contractions might already be starting when you're 7 months pregnant, but these are usually practice contractions known as Braxton Hicks. If you're having a Braxton Hicks contractions, you could feel your uterus hardening or you might feel a firm rolling sensation move across your belly. Toward the end of your pregnancy, you will probably notice more frequent Braxton Hicks contractions that increase in strength. They can last for minutes or hours and you may not even notice them.

Bladder or Kidney Pain

Some pregnancy pains can be caused by a bladder infection. Left untreated, this could turn into a kidney infection, so talk to your doctor about a urine test if you suspect a bladder infection.

Round Ligament Pain

Round ligaments are at the top of your uterus and attach to your groin. These ligaments have to lengthen to account for your growing uterus and this stretching can cause sharp stomach pains in pregnancy or they may just ache as you move. Although these pregnancy pains can hurt a little, they're normal and harmless.

Fibroids

Fibroids occur where a part of the uterine wall has thickened. They can be diagnosed with an ultrasound and the only symptom may be pain over the uterus.

Intestinal Distress

Diarrhea, indigestion and constipation are all common causes of stomach pains in pregnancy. If you're concerned about intestinal distress, contact your healthcare provider.