What is abdominal distension during pregnancy?

From the moment the pregnant woman knew she was pregnant, Jiubei's family treated her as a key protected person. Almost everyone in the family revolved around her. They prepared different foods for her every day to supplement her nutrition and did not allow her to do any housework, for fear that she would feel unwell. Even with such care, some situations cannot be avoided. Many pregnant women in the second trimester want to know what abdominal distension is.

1. What are the causes of abdominal distension during mid-pregnancy?

1. The enlarged uterus oppresses the stomach and intestines

As the fetus grows in the uterus, the gradually enlarging uterus will naturally compress the gastrointestinal tract. In addition to pushing the stomach slightly upward, the intestines will also be pushed upward or to the sides. When the gastrointestinal tract is under pressure, it will affect the normal excretion of food and gas, making the expectant mother feel uncomfortable.

2. Constipation caused by reduced activity

Because expectant mothers are usually less active than before pregnancy, gastrointestinal motility weakens, and the food intake during pregnancy also changes. Excessive intake of high-protein, high-fat foods makes the supplement of vegetables and fruits relatively insufficient, which can also make feces more easily retained in the intestines, causing constipation and making the abdominal bloating more severe.

2. What to do if you have abdominal distension during pregnancy

1. Rest and observe the situation

Even if you feel just a little bit of bloating, you need to rest immediately!

"Lie down" when indoor conditions permit, and "sit down" when you go out. It is best to lie down and rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour. If the surrounding environment does not allow lying down, sit down. If this still does not stop the bloating and pain, please see a doctor as soon as possible.

2. Things to pay attention to in daily life

How do you feel about your abdomen? It is important to understand your usual situation!

Find a time every day to place your hands on your abdomen and feel the baby's movements. This way you can notice changes in your abdomen and be aware of your baby at the same time. This is a preparation activity for becoming a pregnant mother! Fetal movement, size, hardness, softness... sensitively feel the various changes in your body and spend every day of pregnancy happily!

3. Avoid SEX, which is absolutely prohibited in the early and late stages of pregnancy!

Stimulation of the uterus can also cause uterine contractions, so please avoid SEX when you feel bloating, and please understand this, dad. In addition, semen contains the hormone prostaglandin and impurities that promote uterine contractions. Always use condoms when having sex during pregnancy.

4. Stop nipple massage and stop immediately if you feel anything unusual!

Nipple stimulation is intended to secrete the hormone oxytocin, which can promote the secretion of breast milk after delivery. But it also helps to promote the recovery (=contraction) of the uterus after childbirth, so nipple massage may cause abdominal distension. Especially those who are prone to bloating should stop nipple massage.

5. Relax your tense mood

Check your sleeping position. Sleeping on the left side is the most suitable for pregnant mothers!