Upper Stomach Pain in the Second Trimester: Causes and Relief Tips

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it also comes with many physical changes. As your baby grows, your body stretches, shifts, and adapts in ways you may have never experienced before. One common concern many women face is upper stomach pain during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. This discomfort can feel worrying, especially when you are unsure what is normal and what is not.  

Many people refer to the second trimester as the “easy phase” of pregnancy because symptoms tend to be milder than they are in the first and last trimesters. However, some women do continue to experience discomfort in their upper abdomen during this period, which can manifest as pressure, cramping or even sharp pain. Fortunately, it’s important to remember that the vast majority of the time, these discomforts are nothing serious and can usually be treated effectively at home with conservative management techniques. 

In this article, we’ll break down why upper stomach pain happens, when it’s normal, when to be careful, and how you can find relief.  

Is Upper Stomach Pain Normal During the Second Trimester?  

During the second trimester, many women experience pain in their upper stomach, which can be attributed to the growth and expansion of the uterus. As the uterus grows larger, it pushes onto surrounding organs, such as the stomach, intestines and ribs causing discomfort and/or tightness in the upper abdomen area. 

Hormonal changes also slow down digestion, which can cause gas, bloating, and acidity. All of these can contribute to upper stomach pain during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy.  

However, while mild or occasional pain is common, pain that is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms should never be ignored. Listening to your body is key.  

Common Causes of Upper Stomach Pain During Pregnancy  

There are several common factors to which women may attribute discomfort in their upper abdomen during their second trimester. These include the following:  

1. Indigestion and gas 

Pregnancy hormones relax the digestive muscles, slowing digestion. This often causes gas buildup, bloating, and a burning sensation in the upper stomach.  

2. Acid reflux or heartburn 

As the uterus grows, it pushes stomach acids upward, leading to heartburn and pain in the chest or upper stomach area.  

3. Stretching muscles and ligaments 

Your abdomen is stretching to make space for the baby. This stretching can cause pulling or aching sensations in the upper belly.  

4. Posture changes 

As your centre of gravity shifts, poor posture can strain abdominal and rib muscles, causing discomfort.  

5. Overeating or eating too fast 

Eating large meals can put extra pressure on your stomach, leading to pain and heaviness.  

These causes are common and usually harmless, though they can still be uncomfortable.  

Serious Conditions That May Cause Upper Abdominal Pain  

While most cases are mild, some conditions need medical attention:  

1. Preeclampsia 

Upper abdominal pain, especially on the right side, along with swelling, headaches, or vision changes, can be a warning sign.  

2. Gallbladder problems 

Gallstones can cause sharp pain in the upper right abdomen, often after eating fatty foods.  

3. Liver-related issues 

Rare pregnancy-related liver conditions may cause persistent pain under the ribs.  

4. Placental problems 

Though uncommon in the second trimester, severe pain with bleeding should be checked immediately.  

If pain feels intense, sudden, or unusual, it’s always better to consult a doctor. 

Upper Stomach Pain Under the Ribs: What It May Indicate  

Pain under the ribs is a frequent complaint in the second trimester. As the uterus grows upward, it presses against the rib cage. This pressure can cause soreness or stabbing pain, especially when sitting for long periods or after meals.  

Gas trapped in the intestines can also cause pain that feels sharp and radiates under the ribs. In most cases, this type of upper stomach pain during the 2nd trimester is not dangerous. Gentle movement, better posture, and smaller meals often help ease it.  

How to Relieve Upper Stomach Pain During Pregnancy? 

Here are some simple and safe ways to find relief:  

• Eat small, frequent meals instead of large ones  

• Avoid spicy, oily, or very acidic foods  

• Sit upright after eating and avoid lying down immediately  

• Drink warm water to help digestion  

• Practice gentle prenatal stretches  

• Sleep on your left side with proper pillow support  

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing  

• Take slow walks to reduce gas buildup  

Most women notice improvement by making small lifestyle changes.  

When to Seek Medical Help for Upper Abdominal Pain? 

You should contact your healthcare provider if you experience:  

• Severe or constant pain that doesn’t go away  

• Pain accompanied by vomiting, fever, or dizziness  

• Upper abdominal pain with high blood pressure or swelling  

• Pain, along with vaginal bleeding  

• Sudden sharp pain under the ribs on the right side  

These symptoms may signal something more serious and should be evaluated promptly.  

Prevention Tips for Reducing Upper Stomach Pain in the Second Trimester  

While you can’t prevent all discomfort, these tips can help reduce the chances:  

• Eat slowly and chew food well  

• Avoid lying flat after meals  

• Maintain good posture while sitting and standing  

• Stay hydrated throughout the day  

• Include fiber-rich foods to avoid constipation  

• Manage stress through breathing exercises or light yoga  

Following these habits can greatly reduce upper stomach pain during the 2nd trimester.  

Conclusion  

Upper stomach pain in the second trimester can feel unsettling, but in most cases, it is a normal part of your body adjusting to pregnancy. Digestive changes, muscle stretching, and pressure from the growing uterus are common reasons for this discomfort. Simple lifestyle changes and mindful eating often provide relief.  

However, never ignore pain that feels severe, persistent, or unusual. Trust your instincts and seek medical advice when needed. If you’d like deeper guidance, you can visit an Oasis Fertility Clinic near you to gain clarity from experienced fertility specialists. You may also reach out via their helpline at 1800-3001-1000 or connect through the live chat feature for quick support and reassurance.