Abdominal pain in pregnancy: a rational approach to management. Issue 4 (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pinas-Carrillo, Ana; Chandraharan, Edwin
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics, gynaecology & reproductive medicine. Volume 27:Issue 4(2017:Apr.)
• Page Start: 112
• Page End: 119
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: ectopic pregnancy -- miscarriage -- placental abruption -- preterm delivery -- uterine rupture; Gynecology -- Periodicals; Obstetrics -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ogrm.2017.01.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-7214

Abstract

Abstract: Abdominal pain is the most frequent complaint amongst pregnant women throughout pregnancy and occurs in all three trimesters. Although, most commonly it is secondary to the anatomical, physiological, biochemical changes during pregnancy, it is essential to approach every case in a systematic manner. It is essential to exclude pathological causes of pain, both obstetric and non-obstetric, so as to improve outcomes. The challenges during pregnancy include the anatomical changes causing displacement of the intra-abdominal organs by the gravid uterus and consequently, the absence or modification of the "classical" symptoms and signs as well as the physiological changes which alter the normal ranges of blood tests. In addition, anatomical distortion secondary to a gravid uterus may lead to difficulties in interpreting the results of radiological investigations, the presence of a fetus may pose a clinical dilemma with regard to performing tests and investigations. This is because some investigations may have an adverse impact on fetal wellbeing, and, any delay in performing these investigations in a timely manner so as to safeguard the fetus may increase the risks of complications to the mother.