Abdominal Pain and Gas After Miscarriage: What to Know

Abdominal pain and excessive flatulence during a miscarriage?

I had an ultrasound on October 3rd, which showed that the fetal heartbeat had stopped at 8 weeks.
I experienced a natural miscarriage on October 6th, and I did not have much discomfort that day.
From October 7th until now, I have been experiencing intermittent lower abdominal cramping and sharp pain.
The amount of bleeding has not increased, but I feel very uncomfortable.
The bleeding has a noticeable odor, and I often feel the urge to pass gas; when I am unable to do so, the abdominal pain worsens.
I would like to ask the doctor if there is a possibility of inflammation, whether increased gas is normal, and how I can alleviate the abdominal pain.
Thank you.

Lin Tai Tai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/09

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I apologize for not being able to diagnose based on the described symptoms.
Flatulence is not necessarily related to gynecology.
If you continue to feel unwell, I recommend seeing a gynecologist for an examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/10/09

More Info

I'm sorry to hear about your recent experience with miscarriage and the discomfort you're facing. It's important to understand that after a miscarriage, many women may experience a range of physical symptoms, including abdominal pain and gas. Let's break down your concerns regarding abdominal pain, gas, and the possibility of inflammation.

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Gas After Miscarriage
1. Post-Miscarriage Symptoms: After a miscarriage, it is common for women to experience various symptoms as the body adjusts. This can include cramping, which may feel similar to menstrual cramps, and can last for several days to weeks. The pain you describe as intermittent lower abdominal cramping and sharp pain can be part of the normal healing process as your uterus contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size.

2. Gas and Bloating: The sensation of wanting to pass gas but being unable to do so can lead to increased abdominal discomfort. Hormonal changes after a miscarriage can affect your gastrointestinal system, leading to bloating and gas. Additionally, if you've had any changes in your diet or fluid intake during this time, it could also contribute to these symptoms.

3. Potential Inflammation: The presence of a foul odor in your discharge could indicate an infection or inflammation. It's crucial to monitor for other signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or an increase in bleeding. If you suspect an infection, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and possible treatment.

4. Pain Management: To alleviate abdominal pain, consider the following strategies:
- Heat Therapy: Applying a heating pad to your abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce cramping.

- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help with digestion and reduce bloating.

- Dietary Adjustments: Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding gas-producing foods (like beans, carbonated drinks, and certain vegetables) may help reduce gas and bloating.

- Over-the-Counter Medications: Medications like simethicone (Gas-X) can help relieve gas discomfort. However, consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially after a miscarriage.

5. When to Seek Medical Attention: If your abdominal pain worsens, if you experience heavy bleeding, or if you develop fever or chills, it is crucial to seek medical attention. These could be signs of complications that require prompt evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while some abdominal pain and gas after a miscarriage can be normal, it's essential to remain vigilant for signs of infection or other complications. If your symptoms persist or worsen, please reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can perform a physical examination and possibly order tests to ensure that everything is healing properly. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking help is always a good step when you're unsure.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Uncertain Lower Abdominal Pain After Miscarriage

Dear Doctor: Since my embryo naturally miscarried, I have been experiencing intermittent pain or a feeling of heaviness in my lower left abdomen (the embryo was only formed for about two weeks). Sometimes, the sensation seems to be near my intestines, and it slightly alleviates a...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, for lower abdominal pain in women, it is still recommended to seek evaluation from both gastroenterology and obstetrics and gynecology to understand the underlying cause. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Concerns About Pregnancy: Is Vaginal Gas a Sign of Miscarriage?

I am five months pregnant. Previously, I experienced some cramping sensations in my vagina, and yesterday I noticed that there are intermittent gas-like sensations in my vagina, similar to passing gas. I am very worried that this could be a sign of a miscarriage or cervical incom...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: At 20 weeks of pregnancy, the enlarging uterus can compress the rectum. Therefore, when you are more active, the rectum may become irritated and contract due to pressure on the rectal-vaginal sphincter, which can cause pain and gas expulsion. Resting more will help improve...

Understanding Abdominal Bloating After Miscarriage: Causes and Insights

Why is there no bleeding after a miscarriage, yet there is still a feeling of abdominal bloating?

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Please consult the original physician who managed the miscarriage for an examination.

Understanding Post-Miscarriage Abdominal Pain and Recovery

Hello Doctor: My last menstrual period was on September 18. I took a home pregnancy test on October 22, which showed a faint pink line. On October 28, I experienced light pink spotting in the afternoon, and around 3:30 AM on October 29, I woke up to find deep red bleeding. By aro...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The last menstrual period was on September 18. On October 22, a home pregnancy test showed a faint pink line. On October 28, there was a small amount of pink spotting in the afternoon, and around 3:30 AM on October 29, I woke up to find deep red bleeding. By around 5 AM, I began ...