Pain on the right side of the abdomen during pregnancy can range from stabbing and shooting to dull aches or a tight pull. It can be completely harmless and "just" mean that the body is making room, but it can also be a signal that your midwife or doctor needs to assess. Here's a practical guide to understanding where the pain comes from, what you can do here and now, and when you should seek help.

Pain in the lower right side, close to the groin, is often experienced as the uterus grows. Many describe it as a sudden stab, especially when standing up, turning in bed, coughing, or walking quickly.

• Change your pace and make calmer movements when changing position.
• Try bending at the hips and knees when turning in bed so your belly "moves with you."
• Lie on your side with a pillow between your knees for relief.
• Contact your midwife if the pain becomes persistent, increases, or worries you.

Pain high on the right side, under the ribs, can be related to digestion, pressure from the growing uterus, or muscle tension and posture. However, pain in the upper right abdomen is also an area where you need to be extra aware of accompanying symptoms.

Seek assessment the same day for pain under the right ribs along with one or more of these:

• severe or persistent nausea and vomiting
• headache, visual disturbances, or sudden swelling
• general malaise, fever, or impaired breathing

If in doubt, it's always okay to call an extra time. Better reassurance than carrying the worry alone.

When you walk, both your pelvis, core, and the structures supporting the uterus are activated. Therefore, you may feel stabbing pains on the right side, especially if you have walked a lot, stood for a long time, or are in a hurry.

• Take micro-breaks: 2-3 minutes of rest can make a big difference.
• Try shorter strides and a more "waddling" walk if the pain is provoked.
• Use support if you feel heaviness or pulling in your abdomen.

A maternity support belt can give some a more "held" feeling during activity, without promising to eliminate the cause. See, for example, Support Belts and a specific Maternity Support Belt.

Digestion often changes during pregnancy, and both gas and constipation can cause throbbing or shooting pains in the side, including the right side. Typically, the discomfort fluctuates and can be related to meals and toilet habits.

• Drink fluids evenly throughout the day.
• Choose fiber-rich foods, and increase gradually if you're not used to it.
• Move gently daily if it feels comfortable.
• Talk to your doctor or midwife before using laxatives to choose a solution that suits you.

As a rule of thumb, you should seek assessment if the pain is new, strong, persistent, or feels "wrong" compared to what you usually experience.

• bleeding, rupture of membranes, or regular labor-like pains before term
• fever, impaired general condition, or severe abdominal tenderness
• stinging urination, pain in the side/back, or suspected urinary tract infection
• sudden, severe pain that is not relieved by rest

You are not doing anything wrong by reacting early. It is part of taking care of both yourself and your baby.