During pregnancy, pain on the left side of the abdomen can feel both irritating and a little unsettling (which is completely understandable). Often, it's related to normal bodily changes, but sometimes it can also signal a need for action. Here, you'll find practical help to assess the situation and find relief.

Many people experience "stabs," pulls, or tenderness on the left side during pregnancy, which can come and go. This can be due to:

• The uterus growing and shifting organs, muscles, and connective tissue.
• Ligaments (uterine ligaments) stretching, especially with movement, coughing, or when you stand up.
• Gas and digestive changes can cause localized pain, which may occur on the left side.

Pain that changes with position, comes in short jolts, or improves with rest is often less concerning. However, you know your body best, and it's perfectly fine to take it seriously if something feels "wrong."

Location matters. Lower left abdominal pain can, for example, feel like pressure, a sharp pang, or a dull ache.

Consider:

• Did the pain come on suddenly, or did it build up slowly?
• Is it one-sided and sharp, or more diffuse and aching?
• Does it worsen with movement, or is it constant regardless of position?
• Are there other symptoms such as burning sensation during urination, fever, bleeding, diarrhea, or vomiting?

It's helpful to note when the pain occurs, how long it lasts, and what helps. This makes it easier to explain if you call a doctor or midwife.

Digestion can become more sensitive during pregnancy, and gas or constipation can cause pain on the left side.

You can often try:

• Small meals spread throughout the day.
• Gentle movement such as a short walk and gentle stretches.
• Fluids and fiber at a pace your stomach can handle (too much too quickly can also cause more gas).
• Resting on your left side with a pillow under your belly or between your knees if it feels comfortable.

If you experience severe pain along with persistent vomiting, fever, or a generally unwell feeling, you should seek professional medical help.

It's always okay to call and have your symptoms assessed. Contact a doctor, out-of-hours doctor, or maternity ward sooner if you experience:

• Bleeding or watery discharge that you cannot explain
• Fever or chills
• Dizziness, fainting, or severe malaise
• Strong, increasing, or constant pain that is not relieved by rest
• Pain with burning sensation during urination or suspicion of a urinary tract infection
• Later in pregnancy: significantly altered or reduced fetal movements

Better safe than sorry.

If the pain feels like pulling, heaviness, or discomfort with movement, support around the abdomen can provide more daily ease for some. A support belt can relieve the abdomen and lower back, making walking and standing more comfortable, especially when the belly is heavy.

A relevant place to start is Support Belts, and if you want to see a specific product, you can look at the Maternity Support Belt. Choose an adjustable solution that doesn't constrict, and stop if it feels uncomfortable.