Pregnancy is a period fraught with aches and pains. Nevertheless pregnancy pains are signals of progressing pregnancy.

Early pregnancy pains

Implantation cramping:  As early as 7 days after ovulation lower abdominal cramping and pain akin to PMS may be felt. It signals ovum implantation.

Round Ligament Pain: As the uterus expands to accommodate the progressing pregnancy. It starts in the first trimester and continues to the very end. Surprisingly, a form of it is felt even after delivery as the uterus regains its size.

Hormonal Activity:  Increased hormonal activity to prepare the uterus for pregnancy causes pains.

Sexual Activity:  Sexual activity during pregnancy is safe but it can cause some pregnancy pains.

Uterine Expansion: Women often worry that pregnancy pains are dire signs. However, since the entire uterus area gets rearranged to make place for growing baby, pregnancy pains are no cause for worry.

Pregnancy Dehydration: Morning sickness and frequent urination are culprits that rob the body of water causing cramping and pains in the lower abdomen and the lower back. Drinking the required 8 glasses of water and keeping the body hydrated will ease the symptoms.

Mid Pregnancy pains
Round Ligament Pain: Trimester 2 of the pregnancy brings with it an increase in round ligament pain. The round ligaments are a set of ligaments located in the lower part of the belly and support the uterus. They expand to create space for the growing fetus.

Mild heat applied to lower abdominal area and the lower back is a good home remedy to lessen lower abdominal and lower back pain. However, the remedy should only be used in case of extreme discomfort. Care must be taken to ensure mild warmth. Extreme heat and frequent application may cause pregnancy complications.

Adequate rest is very important during pregnancy. Intake of fiber must be increased to prevent constipation and avoid pregnancy related hemorrhoids.

Later Pregnancy Pains

Swellings and Edema: Aching feet and edema are common due to pregnancy fluid build up.  Elevate legs, rest frequently for short periods especially at mid day. A good remedy to alleviate feet pain is to stand in cool shallow water. At night sleep with feet elevated.

Breast Pain: During pregnancy breast tenderness develops as a result of hormonal changes that will encourage lactation.

Back pain: Lower back pain becomes more intense due to your own weight, plus the weight of the baby. Pregnancy will also cause weakening, stretching and slackening of abdominal muscles resulting in low back pain.
Varicose veins and Leg Cramps: Painful cramps in the legs and also possible varicose veins are pregnancy related conditions. Stretching exercises and gentle massage can bring relief.
Pelvic Pressure:  Blood begins pooling in pelvic area in preparation of delivery increasing pressure in pelvic region, causing pain. Relief can be sought by applying warm and cold compresses and doing kegel exercises.
Constipation and Abdominal Bloating: Constipation pain intensifies due to added pressure of uterus and baby on rectum. Slow processing of food causes wind and gas in the stomach.