Have you ever asked, can hitting your belly while pregnant harm your unborn child? or wondered about the maximum pressure a pregnant belly can bear? This article sheds light on the reactions and potential concerns following an impact to your pregnant abdomen, whether it’s a minor bump or a more serious fall.
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Here, the elbow of a complete stranger; there, the kitchen counter. It’s common to feel like your belly is about to explode as your pregnancy continues. The question “How much pressure can a pregnant belly take?” may even occur to you.
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Many things, including loose ligaments and joints, a greater girth (you’re a larger target and a little off-balance), and possibly being somewhat distracted, combine to make your belly bump-prone throughout pregnancy.
Even a forward tumble or a kick from your toddler is unlikely to harm your unborn child, so you may rest easy whenever your pregnant belly takes a hit.
According to Owen Montgomery, M.D., assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology, “Nature gives a fetus a safe place to live. The fetus floats in amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac, which is covered by the muscles of the uterus and abdomen.” The fetus is also covered by the spine behind the uterus, the pelvis in front, and the rib cage in back.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Falling on your stomach, being in an accident, or being struck in the stomach by another person may safeguard your unborn kid, but you should still tell your doctor. They could want you to come in for observation.
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If your baby isn’t moving as much as usual (During the second and third trimesters, it’s normal for your baby to kick or move about five times in two hours when you’re sleeping down.), or if you’ve experienced any bleeding, vaginal discharge, contractions, or cramping within the previous 12 hours, you should see a doctor right away.
Placental abruption can result from any uterine trauma, including being punched or kicked in the uterus, falling on one’s abdomen, or being in a vehicle accident. When this happens, the placenta becomes detached from the uterine wall. minor cases may present with minor vaginal bleeding and/or contractions that pose little danger to the baby. In severe cases, however, the placenta may tear away in huge pieces, which can be dangerous for the developing infant.
The March of Dimes reports that placental abruption is responsible for 10% of premature births because it hinders the fetus from receiving adequate oxygen and nutrients and can lead to hazardous bleeding and other issues for the pregnant woman. Close observation, bed rest, or emergency delivery are among potential treatments.
Safeguarding Your Unborn Child’s Belly
Dr. Michele Hakakha of Beverly Hills adds, “Gentle pushing on your belly is fine” as your belly grows. When you’re farther along in your pregnancy, avoiding getting hit with something as forceful as a jab, kick, or punch is especially important.
You should take additional care to avoid falling. Avoid slipping on ice, snow, wet leaves, newly waxed or swept floors, and other potentially hazardous surfaces. Avoid slippery soles and high heels by donning a comfortable pair of flats. Always use the handrails when entering and exiting the shower or tub, and take your time doing so. And always fasten your seatbelt such that the lap part is beneath your stomach and the shoulder part is in the space between your breasts and to the side of your tummy.
In Conclusion
Because the uterus is such a safe environment for the developing baby, most light to moderate blows to the belly won’t harm the fetus. But more forceful blows can do more damage. If you get hurt, immediately get medical attention and take precautions to avoid being hit or falling.
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