Q&A: Am I showing—or am I just bloated?

I get this question quite frequently!

First off, if the ultrasound is measuring as expected, the fetus is growing normally. So I don't think you need to worry that this represents some sort of complication from the pregnancy.

As you say, upper abdominal distension can be from gas, constipation, or weight gain. Women who have had babies before often notice that they "show" earlier in subsequent pregnancies—probably because the abdominal muscles aren't what they used to be. Also, moms-to-be often improve their diet, increasing milk products, fruits, vegetables, and fiber, all of which can cause gas. On top of that, the pregnancy hormone progesterone causes constipation, adding to the buildup of abdominal contents.

Serious causes for abdominal bloating in pregnancy are really rare. Your doctor or midwife should be able to talk to you about your symptoms and physical examination, and make specific recommendations to you on steps you can take to be more comfortable. Pretty soon your uterus will grow to your upper abdomen, and your appearance will more closely match your gestation.