I'm 36 weeks pregnant and my stomach feels like it's going to split open?

Question

It's always to the right hand side and it feels like my skin is going to tear. The only way I can describe the pain is like a burning, stretching feeling which feels like the baby is trying to push itself out the wrong way! Has anyone else had this? I'm seeing my midwife next week but I don't think I can cope with the pain much longer

Answer 1

I am also 36 weeks and have the very same issue.  My pregnancy is high risk so in addition to seeing my Doc I go to a Fetal Medicine clinic for ultrasounds every other week.  I have told both what's happening and pleaded for answers and help - both have responded the same...

It is the position of the baby in and around the stomach muscle.  It is quite possible that the muscle has even torn.  In my case, baby is in breach position and her head is tearing my right muscle.  Although EXTREMELY painful, I know, there's nothing that can be done but rest as much as possible...try not to use your stomach muscles.  If being up and walking around intensifies it, sit or lay down (this has helped me out) or try a warm cloth, warm bath, etc.

Answer 2

I have been dealing with these pains for about a month now.  I am 34 weeks.  The pain can sometimes be so excrutiating at times where I can barely stand straight because I feel like my skin and muscles are going to rip open.  I think it could be the way the baby is positioned because it doesn't happen on a daily basis.  I'm also dealing with a cold so coughing and/or sneezing is also terribly painful...the only thing that seems to help is holding my belly when walking, coughing or sneezing.  I will try the heating pad and hope for the best but plan on speaking with my OB tomorrow.  I've read that it's your ab muscles splitting/opening which is making room for baby.  Hope you feel better!!!!

Answer 3

I am 36 weeks pregnant myself and I have been having pains on my lower left side of my stomach since about 30 weeks,down towards my lower spine. Which have been becoming more frequent. My midwifes tell me its normal, although it dose not feel normal.The pain becomes so intense that I have been into Labor ward twice. On each occasion it has not been pre-labor pains. The doctors say its due to the stretching of my muscles. I am not sure but I think it is that combined with the build up of gases. Each time the pain occurs,theres a pulling, stabbing sensation that will only stop once I release gas. Quiet strange. There is not much the doctors can do to help due to the fact that it can be anything. Not much test can be done. Even though the pains occur and it can get you worried,as long as the baby is fine, you'll just have to cope with it. Good luck to all mummies. I wish you all the best!!!