The Growing Pains

I have one more day to go until I am officially in my second trimester- yay! As I am looking forward to week fourteen (and hopefully a respite from the nausea etc) I am beginning to feel sharp aches in my lover right pelvic area that don't last long but are very painful nonetheless. Me being the neurotic that I am went & researched what this pain could possibly be- & guess what I found out? It's the pain of my uterus expanding and the stretching that has to occur to my round ligament (ligaments are tough bands of tissue) causes this pain. What a relief but what a pain in the abdomen!

Many women experience this pain in pregnancy. It is quite normal from week thirteen on as the round ligament (the ligament that actually helps your uterus to stay suspended where it is in your pelvic area) has to stretch to accommodate the growth & movement of your baby. Round ligament pain however, should not persist. Ways that you can tell the difference between round ligament pain from other problems include: vomiting, cramping or bleeding accompanying your symptoms. These can be signs that something else can be wrong with you- from appendicitis to inguinal hernias and other problems. Any extra symptoms and you need to call your healthcare provider. Below is a diagram that should better help you see how your uterus is changing.

For me right now all I have experienced are the cramps from time to time. I'm happy to know that all it is would be that my baby is growing & that pretty soon I will be able to look at my stomach & say "Yup- I'm pregnant!"

If you have any questions please feel free to ask & I'll try to help you get the best response possible. Gotta go- but until next time keep your hubby, your jellybean(s) & yourself safe, nourished & protected.

~Mommy Dearest~