What To Know About Rib Pain During Pregnancy ?

Rib pain is a normal and fairly common pregnancy symptom, and usually not a reason to worry.

Rib pain tends to occur in the 2nd & 3rd trimester, especially near the end of your pregnancy, as your belly, and everything else stretches to accommodate your growing baby. Pain in your ribs can even surface as early as the 1st trimester.

Rib pain during pregnancy can happen for a few reasons, which vary by trimester. It may be due to heartburn in the first trimester, or pressure from the foetus in the third trimester.

You do not have to worry, In most cases, the cause of rib pain is harmless. The growing foetus often causes aches and pains around the ribs due to their position in the womb.

Less commonly, medical complications can cause rib pain, so it is important to know the warning signs.

Let us look at what can cause rib pain during pregnancy, how to relieve the pain, and when to see a doctor :

Causes and trimesters :

The most common causes of ribs hurt during pregnancy changes with trimester.

Pressure from the growing foetus :

  • The position of the foetus in the womb can cause rib pain. In late second trimester and third trimester, the uterus expands upward to accommodate the developing foetus.
  • As the foetus gets larger and larger, it presses against the ribs. Carrying extra weight of the foetus places more strain on the muscles, which can put pressure on the rib muscles, causing muscle pain.
  • This pain is usually mild to moderate. If the pain is severe, it is contact your doctor.

The position of the foetus :

Close to the end of the second trimester, the foetus may change position and turns upside down so that the head is facing down and the feet are pointing toward the ribs. In this new position, foetus can put pressure on the ribs.

Inflammation :

The cartilage attached to your ribs can loosen and expand during pregnancy, causing inflammation (read: pain) in the area.

Increased pressure from the uterus :

  • As your uterus continues to expand and your breasts keep getting bigger your rib cage may be, quite literally, under some pressure. Baby’s kicks.
  • Your little bundle of joy may have sunk a foot into your ribs and may give packs a powerful punch which  may cause aches and pains in the ribs & abdomen.
  • You may feel this type of rib pain just under the breast on the side of baby’s position.

Round ligament pain :

  • These ligaments are a pair of fibrous tissue that connect the front of the uterus to the groin.
  • As uterus grows, it can put pressure on the round ligaments, which can cause sharp pain when moving.
  • It can occur any time after start of the second trimester. You may feel pain around the ribs, back, or pelvis.

Gallstones :

Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing gall stones, because of rising oestrogen levels. Gallstones may cause symptoms, which can give rise to pain in the upper right abdomen.

Urinary tract infection :

  • Your risk of developing a UTI is high during pregnancy, especially during 3rd trimester.
  • Without timely & proper treatment, a UTI can cause pain in the kidneys, which can feel like rib pain.

You must see a doctor if you have following symptoms :

  • burning sensation during urination.
  • Increased frequency of urination.
  • poor flow of urine.
  • Fever with chills.
  • pain in the bladder or near the kidneys.

Heartburn :

  • During pregnancy, body produces a hormone called ‘Relaxin’, which is responsible for helping the muscles and ligaments prepare for the birth. Relaxing can cause pain in different areas of the body, including around the pelvis and under the ribs.
  • Relaxing also causes heartburn because it relaxes the oesophagus, thus allowing stomach acid to rise upward further than usual.
  • Heartburn can start as early as the first trimester and may last throughout the pregnancy.

Constipation :

Constipation causes abdominal pain, sometimes, you may feel constipation-related pain in the upper abdomen, under the ribs.

Preeclampsia :

  • Preeclampsia, complication that can occur during pregnancy and cause pain under the ribs. The upper right quadrant pain that preeclampsia can cause is liver pain. Preeclampsia tend to occur in the later second trimester and third trimester.
  • Signs and symptoms of preeclampsia are : protein in the urine, high BP, headaches, return of nausea, swelling in the hands and face, sudden weight gain, visual disturbances, pain in the upper right abdomen.
  • Preeclampsia can be dangerous pregnancy complication that can be life-threatening for both mother and baby & it needs prompt medical attention.

If a doctor suspects a UTI or another infection or condition, they may request a urine sample. If they are still not sure what is causing the pain, they may order a blood test.

How to relieve rib pain

Some rib soreness during pregnancy may be an unavoidable due to baby pressing against or kicking the ribs. Taking warm baths and pain-relieving medication, as prescribed by doctor can help.

How do I relieve rib discomfort during pregnancy?

You don’t have to wait until delivery day to feel better. Use these tips to ease rib pain

  • Alternative sleeping positions – Wedge pillow may provide more support for your ribs and abdomen and help alleviate the pain.
  • Heat or ice – Applying heat or cold to the affected area can also provide temporary relief. However, never apply heat directly to your abdomen.
  • Topical anti-inflammatory gels – May offer localized pain relief.
  • Gentle exercise help – Your ante natal coach can suggest exercises, postural changes to relieve musculoskeletal pain including rib pain.
  • Practice gentle yoga – It is effective way to stretch out the muscles and joints during pregnancy.
  • Wear loose clothing – A too-tight shirt or dress can add more pressure to your already-aching ribs. Wear comfortable maternity clothes, loose salwar kameez, skirt & loose top, loose dresses.
  • Take a bath – A warm bath can ease aches and pains. In winter try hot water bag.
  • Find a different position – Try to change baby’s position by changing yours. Try bouncing on an exercise ball or do some pelvic tilts.
  • Wear a belly-support – Belly-support are designed to help redistribute the weight around your growing middle. They can help take the pressure off your straining abdomen, which may be pulling on your ribs and causing pain.
  • Take pain killer – Ask your doctor which one is safe to use & how to take them.

Treatment Of Rib Pain

The treatment for rib pain depends on the cause.

  • Pregnant women with a UTI will be prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection.
  • For gallstones, pregnant woman may need surgery after delivery.
  • Preeclampsia will need medical attention to avoid any complications.

Conclusion :

Some mild ribs hurt in pregnancy is to be expected during pregnancy. But if you experience severe and sudden rib or abdominal pain, be sure to see your doctor. They’ll need to make sure that it’s not any other serious medical condition.

If the pain occurs along with other symptoms, such as fever, high blood pressure, or spots before the eyes, a woman should see her doctor as soon as possible.

The good news is weeks before you deliver, your baby often gets ready for birth by dropping into the pelvis, which takes the pressure off your ribs & pain reduces.

Disclaimer :

The content provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, gynecologist, or healthcare provider before making any changes to your sleep habits or routines during pregnancy, especially when dealing with discomfort or underlying medical conditions.