Groin pain in pregnancy

Q: I'm six weeks pregnant and for the past few days I've had a slight twinge on the left side of my groin. I have the same pain on the right side but less frequently. My GP says not to rule out an ectopic pregnancy - could it be that?

A: There are many reasons for abdominal discomfort in early pregnancy. One is that the ligaments and muscles holding the uterus in place are stretching to make room for your growing baby.

It can feel like a sharp pain, usually in your groin or to one side, and is more common from 12 weeks, but can happen earlier.

Groin pain can be a sign of symphysis pubis dysfunction, where pregnancy hormones cause ligaments to relax. Symptoms can appear from week 12 of your pregnancy onwards and often feel like a muscle spasm.

Abdominal pain can also be a symptom of a urinary tract infection, which your GP will be able to diagnose and treat.

It could also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fertilised egg develops in the Fallopian tube - especially if it's associated with bleeding.

If you're at all worried, see your GP.

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