Rib Pain From Baby Kicking
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lisa Okafor, MD, FACOG · Board-Certified OB-GYN
Content reviewed against published ACOG, NIH, March of Dimes guidelines
Last reviewed:
Your health matters just as much as your baby's. If you are dealing with rib pain from baby kicking, here is what you need to know.
The short answer
Rib pain during pregnancy is common in the third trimester and is caused by the expanding uterus pushing against the rib cage, hormonal loosening of rib joints, and the baby kicking or pressing against the ribs. While uncomfortable, it is usually harmless and resolves after the baby drops lower or after delivery.
Key takeaways
- Rib pain during pregnancy is common in the third trimester and is caused by the expanding uterus pushing against the rib cage, hormonal loosening of rib joints, and the baby kicking or pressing against the ribs. While uncomfortable, it is usually harmless and resolves after the baby drops lower or after delivery.
- Usually normal when: Aching or soreness along the lower ribs that worsens when sitting or bending
- Call your doctor if: Severe right upper quadrant pain under the ribs that is persistent and not from baby kicks - this could indicate HELLP syndrome, gallstones, or liver issues
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
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What Parents Should Know
According to ACOG, NIH, March of Dimes guidelines, rib pain during pregnancy is common in the third trimester and is caused by the expanding uterus pushing against the rib cage, hormonal loosening of rib joints, and the baby kicking or pressing against the ribs. While uncomfortable, it is usually harmless and resolves after the baby drops lower or after delivery. At Second trimester, rib discomfort may begin in the late second trimester as the uterus grows upward. The rib cage expands to accommodate the growing uterus, which can cause aching. Gentle stretching, good posture, and avoiding slouching can help reduce discomfort. It is generally considered normal when aching or soreness along the lower ribs that worsens when sitting or bending. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if severe right upper quadrant pain under the ribs that is persistent and not from baby kicks - this could indicate HELLP syndrome, gallstones, or liver issues.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
Second trimester
Rib discomfort may begin in the late second trimester as the uterus grows upward. The rib cage expands to accommodate the growing uterus, which can cause aching. Gentle stretching, good posture, and avoiding slouching can help reduce discomfort.
Third trimester
Rib pain is most common in the third trimester, especially when the baby is in a breech or oblique position with feet near the ribs. Strong kicks and pushes can cause sharp pain. Stretching with arms above your head, sitting up straight, wearing loose clothing, and using ice packs can help. Gently encouraging the baby to shift position by changing your own position may also provide relief.
Labor & delivery
Rib pain often improves when the baby drops into the pelvis (engagement/lightening) in the weeks before labor. After delivery, rib pain resolves relatively quickly as the rib cage returns to its normal position over several weeks.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed rib pain from baby kicking and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if rib pain is constant and not related to baby movement.
- Mention if pain is concentrated on the right side under the ribs and is not clearly from kicks.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Aching or soreness along the lower ribs that worsens when sitting or bending
- Sharp momentary pain when the baby kicks the ribs
- Rib discomfort that improves when the baby changes position
- Gradual onset as the belly grew larger
- Rib pain is constant and not related to baby movement
- Pain is concentrated on the right side under the ribs and is not clearly from kicks
- Rib pain is making it difficult to breathe comfortably
- Severe right upper quadrant pain under the ribs that is persistent and not from baby kicks - this could indicate HELLP syndrome, gallstones, or liver issues
- Rib pain accompanied by shortness of breath, fever, or coughing up blood
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice rib pain from baby kicking — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that aching or soreness along the lower ribs that worsens when sitting or bending — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At Second trimester, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Prioritize your own rest and nutrition. Accept help when offered, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if severe right upper quadrant pain under the ribs that is persistent and not from baby kicks - this could indicate HELLP syndrome, gallstones, or liver issues.
Related Conditions
Back Pain During Pregnancy
Back pain affects approximately 50-70% of pregnant people and is most common in the second and third trimesters. It is usually caused by the shifting center of gravity, weight gain, hormonal changes that loosen ligaments, and postural adjustments as the belly grows.
HELLP Syndrome
HELLP syndrome is a serious pregnancy complication involving Hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count. It affects about 1-2 in 1,000 pregnancies and is often related to preeclampsia. HELLP is a medical emergency that typically requires prompt delivery. With early recognition and immediate medical care, most mothers and babies have good outcomes.
Gallstones During Pregnancy
Gallstones are more common during pregnancy due to elevated estrogen and progesterone, which increase cholesterol in bile and slow gallbladder emptying. They affect 5-12% of pregnant people. Many gallstones cause no symptoms, but gallbladder attacks can cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen and may require treatment.
Related Resources
Postpartum Recovery Guide
Week-by-week postpartum recovery timeline and warning signs.
Month-by-Month Development
Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.
When to Call the Doctor
General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.
Frequently asked questions
Is rib pain from baby kicking normal?
When should I call the doctor about rib pain from baby kicking?
When is rib pain from baby kicking normal?
What causes rib pain from baby kicking?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about rib pain from baby kicking?
Is rib pain from baby kicking normal at Second trimester?
Is rib pain from baby kicking normal at Third trimester?
Should I go to the ER for rib pain from baby kicking?
Does rib pain from baby kicking go away on its own?
References
- [1]American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Pregnancy FAQs. ACOG, 2022. ACOG
- [2]National Library of Medicine. Musculoskeletal Changes in Pregnancy. StatPearls, 2023. NIH
- [3]March of Dimes. Common Discomforts of Pregnancy. March of Dimes, 2023. March of Dimes
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Rib Pain From Baby Kicking.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed rib pain from baby kicking and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if rib pain is constant and not related to baby movement.
- Mention if pain is concentrated on the right side under the ribs and is not clearly from kicks.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Rib pain is constant and not related to baby movement
- Pain is concentrated on the right side under the ribs and is not clearly from kicks
- Rib pain is making it difficult to breathe comfortably
Urgent signs to report immediately
- Severe right upper quadrant pain under the ribs that is persistent and not from baby kicks - this could indicate HELLP syndrome, gallstones, or liver issues
- Rib pain accompanied by shortness of breath, fever, or coughing up blood
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of rib pain from baby kicking are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if severe right upper quadrant pain under the ribs that is persistent and not from baby kicks - this could indicate hellp syndrome, gallstones, or liver issues.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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Back Pain During Pregnancy
Back pain affects approximately 50-70% of pregnant people and is most common in the second and third trimesters. It is usually caused by the shifting center of gravity, weight gain, hormonal changes that loosen ligaments, and postural adjustments as the belly grows.
HELLP Syndrome
HELLP syndrome is a serious pregnancy complication involving Hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count. It affects about 1-2 in 1,000 pregnancies and is often related to preeclampsia. HELLP is a medical emergency that typically requires prompt delivery. With early recognition and immediate medical care, most mothers and babies have good outcomes.
Gallstones During Pregnancy
Gallstones are more common during pregnancy due to elevated estrogen and progesterone, which increase cholesterol in bile and slow gallbladder emptying. They affect 5-12% of pregnant people. Many gallstones cause no symptoms, but gallbladder attacks can cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen and may require treatment.
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