Is it common to have diarrhea during pregnancy? Of course yes, in fact, general problems like acid reflux, heartburn, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea during pregnancy are very common occurrences.
There may be other causes of diarrhea also during this period. But there is no need to start worrying. Increasing hormone levels of progesterone usually cause constipation but may also cause diarrhea in some cases. However, diarrhea is not a pregnancy symptom.
Like any other time, diarrhea can also be treated by home remedies during pregnancy. The only difference is that you have to be a little more cautious about what you do and do not do to avoid any adverse impact on the other life that is being developed inside your body.
What Causes Diarrhea in Pregnancy?
There can be several causes of diarrhea during pregnancy. Let us examine the three trimesters of pregnancy.
Diarrhea during early pregnancy is not common but can be caused by a variety of reasons including certain types of foods, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, or bacteria.
If you already have a history of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) then you are more likely to face diarrhea during pregnancy's first trimester, otherwise, in most cases, diarrhea generally affects late in the pregnancy.
Some foods that you were very comfortable with in the past may not be compatible with your pregnancy and can cause disturbed bowel movements. In most cases it is constipation but in some cases, it may mean loose motions.
Other than these causes if your diarrhea is caused by bacteria (intestinal parasites, and stomach bugs) then you must contact your doctor.
Diarrhea During Late Pregnancy.
Excluding the external causes, diarrhea can occur naturally during the late part of the pregnancy.
Diarrhea during pregnancy 2nd trimester is also not a common occurrence; it is much later when it becomes common. It never lasts for more than a day or two. However if it lasts longer than that then check with your doctor, it may be due to external factors.
Is it normal to have diarrhea during pregnancy? Yes, interestingly mild diarrhea during pregnancy 3rd trimester can be an early warning sign of labor. If other signs of labor also coincide then get ready to deliver.
Diarrhea During Pregnancy or even otherwise dehydrates you? Dehydration leads to fatigue which adds up to the fatigue caused by the pregnancy itself. So treat your diarrhea during pregnancy with utmost care. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor if required.
Remedies for Diarrhea during Pregnancy
You may not require any medication for diarrhea during pregnancy. Most diarrhea cases subside soon.
You can treat your diarrhea during pregnancy as under:
- Stay Hydrated. Water and mineral loss during diarrhea must be replaced otherwise it could lead to dangerous consequences. Drink lots of water throughout the day and drink fruit juices to replace the minerals lost
- Avoid Trouble Making Foods. High fat, fried and spicy foods are usually trouble-making foods during pregnancy. Milk and other dairy products can also cause diarrhea in some cases. Stay away from these and other foods that you suspect can cause diarrhea.
- Check Your Pregnancy Medication. Certain pregnancy medications can cause diarrhea. Usually, the body gets adjusted to these medications fast, but if it doesn’t, then check with your doctor to switch to another medication
- Do Not Take over the Counter Medication. Normal diarrhea medication over the counter may not be suitable for you as you are pregnant. Ask your doctor if you need to take any medication
Causes of diarrhea during pregnancy can be either related to pregnancy or may not be. The non-pregnancy-related causes can be Non-pregnancy-related reasons include bacteria, viruses, intestinal parasites, stomach flu, food poisoning, and certain medications.
Pregnancy itself can cause diarrhea. The hormonal changes that are taking place in the body can upset the digestive system causing diarrhea. Some new foods you begin to take simply because you are pregnant may not suit you initially. In addition to that certain medication vitamins that are good for the overall health during pregnancy may cause diarrhea.
Whatever the cause of your diarrhea; if it is not cured on its own in a couple of days then you must consult your doctor.