You are excited to learn you are pregnant. However, when stomach cramps and diarrhea during this early pregnancy starts to worry you, the happiness suddenly turned to panic. Will the condition affect the baby inside? This thought is not surprising since the uterus and the bowels are not that far from each other.
What do you need to do especially that you are pregnant? You may be relieved to know that the digestive system works separately from the reproductive system. So, find out why you have these tummy troubles now that you are on the way.
Signs that you have diarrhea
As I have mentioned, you have diarrhea when you have watery or loose bowel movements all day. You may find yourself frequently running to the bathroom because of a sudden and unbearable urge to go. Along with this uncomfortable situation, are stomach cramps, bloating, and slight to severe abdominal pain.
The sudden change in Bathroom Routines when you are Pregnant
Do you know that being pregnant causes abrupt change of hormones? Your body would respond and adapt to the physical transformation in preparation of the baby as well. Hence, your uterus will start to expand and will occupy more space inside, pushing other organs to give way. This process disturbs other internal organs and may interfere with their functions.
Since the bowels are the nearest to the uterus, it is common to experience diarrhea or constipation, and this holds true with frequent urination as well. Along with diarrhea also comes abdominal pains. The good news is none of the said conditions is a threat to both you and the baby. However, you need to deal with the situation and make sure you get better.
What are other causes of stomach cramps and diarrhea when pregnant?
Besides the physical changes, other factors cause stomach cramps and diarrhea during pregnancy.
- The sudden change of diet can upset your stomach. With the hope of having the nutrients your baby needs, shifting to a different diet must not be abrupt. A gradual transition is ideal to know if it is right for you.
- Hormonal changes can cause the digestive process to slow down and may cause diarrhea. All pregnant women have hormonal changes often during the early stage of pregnancy.
- Food sensitivity when pregnant occurs to some women. Some food that you eat before is no longer acceptable in your system during the pregnancy. This will slowly go away as your tummy grows.
- Vitamins: Pre-natal vitamins may cause either diarrhea or constipation. If you suspect that this is the cause of your discomfort, ask your doctor for medication and recommendation.
How to Deal with Diarrhea when pregnant?
Although diarrhea is nothing to fear, you need to know what causes the discomfort and how to make yourself feel better. I recommend that you drink plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration. Remember to stick to water or energy drinks rather on juice and milk.
Diarrhea will eventually subside within two days. The illness will not cause miscarriage, but if it stays longer than that, it could be a sign of infection or other serious causes. Do not let the case distress your pregnancy.
Here are some tips that may help you:
Besides the physical changes, other factors cause stomach cramps and diarrhea during pregnancy.
- Watch your diet. Avoid eating food that would further upset your stomach. Choose easy to digest food until you are well enough to go back to your usual diet.
- Never take anti-diarrhea medication unless prescribed by your physician. Take note that not all over-the-counter medications are safe for pregnant women.
- Observe proper personal hygiene. Loose stools can easily be the cause of UTI. Cleanliness can keep the germs from spreading.
I suggest getting help from your doctor if you have other symptoms like these:
- Diarrhea more than 2-3 days
- Fever
- Severe pain your abdomen and rectum
- Blood in your stool
- Black, tarry stool
- Signs that you are dehydrated
- Vomiting
- Contractions
- Pain in lower abdomen
Conclusion
Pregnant women are not an exception when it comes to diarrhea. Although it raises fear and anxiety, it is rare that it affects the baby and causes miscarriage or contractions. When it happens, there is no reason to panic. Many pregnant women had diarrhea but still gave birth to healthy babies.
However, when you feel worse after two days, you must ask for help from your doctor. I advise that you should be pro-active. Observe your condition and constantly check and monitor your health and the baby. It is better to be safe than sorry.
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