220 chapter 10: Pregnancy
Pain in the lower belly (abdomen)
Strong, constant pain in the first 3 months may be caused by a pregnancy growing
outside the womb in the tube (a tubal, or ectopic, pregnancy). As the tube stretches,
it causes pain. If the pregnancy grows large enough, the tube will burst and bleed.
This is very dangerous. You will bleed inside your abdomen and may die.
Signs of tubal pregnancy:
• missed monthly bleeding
• pain in the lower abdomen on one side
• slight bleeding from the vagina
• feeling dizzy, weak, or faint
a pregnancy
growing in
the tube
If you have some of these signs, go to the nearest hospital.
Bleeding during pregnancy
Do not worry if you spot or bleed a little during the first 3 months. This is not
unusual, especially if there is no pain or cramps.
But you must go to a hospital for medical help right away if you have:
• bleeding as much as monthly bleeding at any time during your pregnancy.
• bleeding with pain at any time during your pregnancy.
• bleeding with no pain after the first 3 months.
Discomforts during pregnancy
Many women experience discomfort during pregnancy. For some disabled women,
the discomforts of their disability get worse, and for some they lessen.
Some discomforts
of pregnancy, such
as tiredness or back
pain, are common
to all women,
including women
You know your body better than anyone
else. So when you are pregnant, pay
attention to what is normal for your body
and what is not. This way you
can tell if something is caused by
your disability or by the pregnancy.
with disabilities.
What can be different for a disabled woman, though, is knowing if a problem is
caused by her pregnancy or her disability. Be aware of what is normal for your body
so you can tell the difference. Then you will be better able to get help when you go
to see a health worker.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007