Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 29, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Flank Pain in Pregnant Individuals

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Pyelonephritis: This is a common cause of flank pain in pregnant women, especially during the second and third trimesters. The urinary tract changes during pregnancy, such as ureteral dilation, can predispose to infection.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones): Pregnancy increases the risk of developing kidney stones due to urinary stasis and increased calcium excretion. Flank pain is a classic symptom.
  • Musculoskeletal Strain: The growing uterus can cause a shift in the center of gravity, leading to muscle strain in the back and flank area.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): While not as severe as pyelonephritis, lower urinary tract infections can still cause significant discomfort and flank pain.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Placental Abruption: Although less common, placental abruption can cause severe abdominal and flank pain. It is a life-threatening condition for both the mother and the fetus.
  • Preeclampsia with HELLP Syndrome: This condition can cause right upper quadrant or flank pain due to liver involvement. It is a medical emergency.
  • Appendicitis: Although the appendix may be displaced upward during pregnancy, appendicitis can still occur and cause flank or abdominal pain. Delayed diagnosis can lead to severe consequences.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Renal Cell Carcinoma: Although rare, renal cell carcinoma can cause flank pain and should be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially if other symptoms like hematuria are present.
  • Ovarian Torsion: This is a rare condition that can cause severe flank pain. It is more common in pregnant women due to the displacement of the ovaries by the growing uterus.
  • Adrenal Hemorrhage: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause flank pain. It may be associated with trauma, severe hypertension, or coagulopathy.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.