Stomach pain is also one of the common pains in pregnancy, as during this period the production of digestive enzymes and acids responsible for food digestion increases considerably, in addition to the growth of the uterus that ends up compressing other organs like the stomach, causing heartburn, acid reflux, and pains during pregnancy.

Another symptom that occurs due to the large increase in the uterus, and consequently the belly, and the stretching of the skin it comprises, is navel pain. As the abdominal area grows a lot and quickly, the ligament connected to the navel is affected, causing slight discomfort and pain during pregnancy in the final stages. If it occurs in the first trimester, the pain may be related to excess intestinal gas, which can be resolved by reducing the intake of foods that cause it.

The entire body adapts to the growth of the fetus, making pains during pregnancy normal. Throughout the entire gestational period, the body produces a hormone known as relaxin, which gives elasticity to the pelvic ligaments and other joints of the body to facilitate the baby's passage during childbirth. Due to the increase in this hormone and the fact that the entire muscular system undergoes changes, the pelvic ligaments and muscles become more strained, which causes pain in the hips and groin.

Other areas also affected due to the increase in hormones and the significant rise in body weight are the lower limbs. Due to the heavy overload, the cardiovascular system is affected, causing swelling and pain in the legs and feet, which brings a lot of discomfort especially in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Some pregnancy pains will be inevitable but temporary, and to have a calm and healthy pregnancy, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, rest a lot, eat healthily, and do lighter physical exercises.

Photos: Eric Lewis, Becky Bokern