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Overview
Common in the second trimester.
Sudden movements trigger it.
When to get medical care
Call 911Heavy bleeding or severe pain.
Get care todayPain with fever, bleeding, or contractions.
See a doctor soonOngoing pain.
Causes
Causes include round ligament pain and other causes.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause sharp pain in the side of the belly or groin during pregnancy. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Round ligament pain (pregnancy)Often treated at home
Short, sharp pains on one or both sides of the lower belly or groin during pregnancy, often when standing up, coughing, or rolling over.
What you can do at home
- Move slowly.
- Rest.
Medicines
Ask before taking medicine.
At the doctor
Your provider will check.
Questions you may be asked
- Pain
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Ultrasound
Prevention
Move carefully.
- Change positions slowly
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.