Abdominal changes
Categories:
Obstetrics or Midwifery
There is a slight flattening of the lower abdomen at
the second month, due to the sinking of the womb. There is also a slight
retraction (drawing back) of the navel. After the third month, when the
womb begins to ascend out of the pelvis, a progressive enlargement of the
abdomen begins and continues until near the end of pregnancy, when the
womb again sinks and the so-called lightening occurs. The protrusion of
the abdomen is more marked usually on the right side. There is often an
increased deposit of fat in the lower portion of the abdomen, as well as
on the hips and thighs. The navel may protrude after the sixth month,