Distinguish between menstrual pain and abdominal pain caused by pregnancy

The article is professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital.

Many women misunderstand that they are pregnant when they have abdominal pain even though it is just a symptom of premenstrual syndrome. Premenstrual syndrome occurs 1-2 weeks before the red light day. Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, especially dysmenorrhea, have many similarities with symptoms of abdominal pain caused by pregnancy.

Although the symptoms are relatively similar, if you pay more attention, you will easily recognize the differences between menstrual pain and abdominal pain due to pregnancy. They are:
1.1 About symptoms Menstrual pain Symptoms of the disease are mainly constant dull pain and spasms in the lower abdomen, usually pain starting 1-3 days before menstruation and peaking on the first day cycle. After that the pain should subside in 3 days. People with dysmenorrhea may experience pain radiating to the back and down the thighs, feeling pressure in the abdomen, upset stomach, nausea, loose stools, etc. In addition, some people may experience cramps in the area. lower back or abdomen about 24-48 hours before the menstrual period and completely disappear when the period ends. Abdominal pain due to pregnancy There is a shady abdominal pain, pain on one side, pain when standing for too long, when sneezing, laughing, ... in the first month of pregnancy - showing the status of the pregnancy . In addition, during the first weeks of pregnancy, the lower abdomen of the pregnant woman will feel jubilant. Pregnant women may also experience abdominal pain during the first week of pregnancy if they experience morning sickness and vomit a lot.

1.2 About Causes of Dysmenorrhea: During menstruation, the uterus contracts to release the uterine lining. The hormone prostaglandin causes uterine muscle contractions, causing menstrual pain. In addition, it can also be caused by some gynecological diseases such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical stenosis,... Abdominal pain due to pregnancy: May come from Causes are not worrisome such as constipation, fetal implantation, ligament stretching, abdominal bloating, indigestion,... However, severe abdominal pain during pregnancy can also be a warning sign of many Dangerous problems that can directly affect the health of mother and fetus such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, threatened premature birth, pre-eclampsia, placental abruption,...

2.1 For people with dysmenorrhea Gentle exercise to relieve pain Soak in a hot bath, place a heating pad, warm water bottle on the lower abdomen to relieve pain. Using heat has the same effect as menstrual pain relievers without worrying about side effects. Add foods rich in vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, Omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium to relieve menstrual cramps Avoid alcohol and smoking because these stimulants can make menstrual pain worse Limit stress In the case of severe menstrual pain, caused by a medical condition, the patient may be prescribed pain relievers, Hormonal control and surgery 2.2 For people with abdominal pain due to pregnancy in the first month Maintain a nutritious diet, eat lots of vegetables and fruits to reduce pain. Doctor Exercise regularly, you can do yoga exercises for pregnant women to relieve pain Gentle massage, hot bath and limit wearing tight clothes Drink more water every day, limit restricted foods processed foods and starchy foods because they increase the risk of constipation, causing upset stomach. sit low Do not stand for too long, try to sleep more Eat bananas or raisins to supplement calcium, potassium and water

The first 3 months of pregnancy is the most sensitive time during pregnancy, so abdominal pain during this period is very dangerous, pregnant women should go to the hospital for an early check-up to avoid dangerous complications, especially mothers with a history of miscarriage, premature birth, preeclampsia.
When you have abdominal pain in the first 3 months, you should go to Vinmec to be examined by the leading doctors in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, determine whether this is a sign of threatened miscarriage, thereby giving advice on proper rest, nutrition, and activities. Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the best quality medical units in Vietnam. Vinmec's Obstetrics and Gynecology Department is highly appreciated by customers for its professional quality and professional service. There is a team of experienced and well-trained obstetricians and gynecologists from the country and the world.
In addition, for pregnant women's peace of mind, Vinmec offers all-inclusive Maternity packages to help monitor the best health of mother and baby throughout pregnancy. During pregnancy, the mother will have regular prenatal check-ups with specialist doctors and perform comprehensive health check-ups, especially thyroid screening, Rubella test; Testing for parasites transmitted from mother to child. The baby will be screened before and after birth. A special thing only at Vinmec is that after the results of prenatal genetic screening are available, doctors will directly analyze and give genetic counseling, helping parents feel secure. With this maternity package, mother and baby will receive comprehensive care and protection before, during and after birth.
If you have a need to use the maternity package service at Vinmec, please register online at the website to be served.