Is Loose Motion a Sign of Pregnancy? Causes and What to Expect
Breast changes, exhaustion, frequent sickness, dizziness, and irregular periods are some of the early pregnancy symptoms. Pregnancy is not the only time for many of these symptoms. Some may be signs of impending menstruation or that you're becoming ill. Similarly, you may be pregnant and not exhibit many of these signs.
Though digestive changes are prevalent, loose motion is not a typical pregnancy indication. All the healthy stuff you're eating today might be the cause of your diarrhea during pregnancy. It can be because of the exercise you've started or the additional water you're consuming.
Your daily routine and the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy may make sporadic bowel movements more likely. Let’s talk about loose motion as a sign of pregnancy in detail!
Can Loose Motion Be a Sign of Pregnancy?
Constipation rather than loose stools is more prevalent among pregnant women. Many of the factors that cause diarrhea during pregnancy are the same as that for non-pregnant people.
Hormonal Shifts in the Before-Partum Period
There are special hormonal and physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. Levels of progesterone and estrogen rise sharply. Additionally, they undergo alterations in the quantity and functionality of several additional hormones. These alterations extend beyond mood.
Digestion can be affected by progesterone
Progesterone causes your bowels to relax, which lessens the effort required to expel waste from your body. The pause gives your body extra time to absorb water and nutrients from your food. The longer food stays in your colon, and your big intestine, the longer it must absorb the moisture. When attempting to defecate, the feces becomes dried out and difficult to pass.
Heightened susceptibility to specific meals and dietary modifications
When they learn they are pregnant, many people alter their diet. Dietary adjustments may induce diarrhea and upset your stomach. During pregnancy, you may experience a variety of changes, including food allergies. You may now have gas, upset stomach, or diarrhea from foods that you were able to handle well before getting pregnant.
Other Causes of Loose Motion During Pregnancy
Now, what causes diarrhea during pregnancy includes the following -
Food Modifications
During pregnancy, food preferences frequently shift. These alterations might occasionally also cause a shift in bowel movements, which can lead to diarrhea.
Vitamins for a baby
Vitamins may occasionally result in loose stools and an upset stomach if you believe your prenatal vitamin may cause the latter.
Anxiety and Stress
The stomach muscles are impacted by emotional variables in the early stages of pregnancy. It causes an uncomfortable stomach and also a cause of diarrhea during pregnancy.
Stomach Infections
Pregnancy-related diarrhea can also be due to gastrointestinal bacteria contracted by contaminated food or drink or from another person. This results in food poisoning.
How to Manage Loose Motion During Pregnancy
However, there is some good news if you are wary of taking drugs during pregnancy. There are certain actions you can do, nevertheless, if you wish to attempt some home treatments.
Make sure to drink plenty of water
Having loose, watery bowel motions can lead to dehydration. Serious consequences can arise from dehydration, particularly during pregnancy. The easiest way to replenish the fluids you've lost due to diarrhea is to drink water. Consuming juice and broth might help replenish your body's depleted electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals.
Maintain a balanced diet
Consume blanched food. Eating fancy foods can make diarrhea worse. When it comes to stomach problems, such as diarrhea, the right diet is frequently advised. These meals aid in the firming of stools. A healthy diet consists of rice, applesauce, bananas, and toast.
Stay away from trigger foods
Foods that are fried, spicy, or high in fat should be avoided. Try consuming less dairy and milk as well. Diarrhea can be made worse by certain meals.
Ask your doctor
Your body will be able to adapt to the drug you're taking for your diarrhea, and it will cease. Otherwise, discuss with your physician the possibility of switching medications. If, after two or three days, your diarrhea doesn't improve, schedule a visit with your doctor.
When to See a Doctor?
If a pregnant woman has the following symptoms, she should see a doctor very away:
Dehydration Symptoms
Severe dehydration can result from diarrhea. Dark urine, thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, or decreased frequency of urination are warning signs. Get medical help right now.
Prolonged or Severe Diarrhea
Seek medical attention if your diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours. It is normal for pregnant women to have three or more bowel movements in a day. Six or more loose stools in a 24-hour period might indicate a serious case. A healthcare professional should assess persistent loose movements.
Illness and Fever
Pregnant women should be closely watched for indications of food poisoning. Immediately visit a doctor if you are experiencing bloody or pus-filled stools. In extreme situations, you will also have a temperature of 102°F (39°C) or higher.
Conclusion
A frequent ailment that may afflict anybody, even pregnant women, is diarrhea. Pregnancy-related diarrhea may be caused by bowel infections, hormonal changes, or underlying bowel diseases.
Consume simple soups or beverages and ample water to prevent dehydration. See a physician if the diarrhea continues for a couple of days than expected. Fever, dehydration, bloody stools, or frequent vomiting are indications that should prompt medical attention. Additionally, you should see a physician before using any diarrheal drugs.
FAQs
Can early pregnancy cause loose motion?
Yes, all pregnant women experience these hormonal changes; however, some of them will result in diarrhea in the pregnancy.
What does loose motion mean—period or pregnancy?
Diarrhea is a common PMS symptom, not a pregnancy sign.
Could diarrhea be an indication of premature pregnancy loss?
Generally speaking, diarrhea does not indicate an early pregnancy loss.
What are some ways to prevent loose motion in pregnancy?
Here are a few natural solutions for loose movements during pregnancy:
- Have a lot of water.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Avoid eating from street sellers.
- Seek medical advice if it becomes severe.
Can diarrhea affect a baby in pregnancy?
The mom and fetus may suffer from acute malnutrition and dehydration as a result of diarrhea.
Medical Disclaimer: The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphics, and images, is intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice about your condition(s).
