Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Tightness and Pain at 13 Weeks 6 Days Pregnancy
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Round Ligament Pain: This condition is common during the second trimester of pregnancy due to the stretching of the round ligaments that support the uterus. The pain is typically sharp and stabbing, and can be accompanied by abdominal tightness.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Braxton Hicks Contractions: These are practice contractions that can occur during the second trimester, causing abdominal tightness and mild pain. They are usually irregular and do not lead to cervical dilation.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs are common during pregnancy and can cause abdominal pain, discomfort, and tightness, along with other symptoms like dysuria and frequent urination.
- Constipation: Constipation is a frequent complaint during pregnancy, and it can lead to abdominal discomfort, pain, and tightness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less likely at 13 weeks, an ectopic pregnancy that has not been previously diagnosed could still present with abdominal pain and tightness. This is a medical emergency.
- Placental Abruption: This condition involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus and can cause severe abdominal pain and tightness, along with vaginal bleeding.
- Preeclampsia: Characterized by high blood pressure and often accompanied by protein in the urine, preeclampsia can cause abdominal pain and tightness, among other symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ovarian Torsion: Although rare, ovarian torsion can occur during pregnancy and causes severe, sudden abdominal pain.
- Appendicitis: Appendicitis can occur at any time during pregnancy and presents with abdominal pain, which may initially be diffuse or around the navel and then localizes to the lower right abdomen.
- Uterine Rupture: Extremely rare in the absence of previous uterine surgery, uterine rupture can cause severe abdominal pain and tightness, and is a medical emergency.