Causes of Diarrhea During Pregnancy
Pregnant women may experience diarrhea due to various physical and hormonal changes in their bodies, as well as other factors unrelated to pregnancy, such as infections or intestinal issues. However, there is a lack of recent studies providing specific prevalence rates of diarrhea among pregnant women, as noted by the American College of Gastroenterology. Below are some key causes:
Hormonal Changes
Certain hormones and their fluctuations can trigger diarrhea. For instance, elevated levels of prostaglandins, including oxytocin, play a crucial role in stimulating uterine contractions but also increase the motility of the entire gastrointestinal tract. This heightened activity can lead to faster transit of stool through the intestines, resulting in diarrhea.
Similar occurrences may happen during a woman’s menstrual cycle due to a spike in prostaglandin levels. Additionally, synthetic prostaglandins can cause diarrhea as a side effect by altering the absorption of water and electrolytes from the stomach, as seen with medications like misoprostol, which is often used to induce labor.
Dietary Changes
Many women modify their diets in early pregnancy to ensure their baby receives adequate nutrition, which can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances or diarrhea. Sometimes this may stem from newfound food sensitivities that did not exist before pregnancy.
Vitamins and Supplements
While prenatal vitamins offer numerous benefits for both maternal and fetal health, certain types can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or constipation. It is advisable for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider if they encounter problems, as there are various commercial formulations of these vitamins available.
Infectious Diarrhea
Diarrhea resulting from infections, commonly known as infectious diarrhea, is a frequent cause during pregnancy. Symptoms include:
- Fever and chills.
- Watery and loose stools.
- Blood in the stool.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness.
This type of diarrhea is often transmitted through contaminated food. Therefore, it poses a significant risk when traveling to developing countries. Potential pathogens include:
- Bacteria: such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Shigella.
- Parasites: such as Giardia lamblia and Cryptosporidium enteritis.
- Viruses: including Norovirus and Rotavirus.
Intestinal Disorders
Chronic diarrhea may be linked to various intestinal disorders, which encompass:
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.
- Celiac disease, commonly known as gluten sensitivity.
If diarrhea is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor as they may indicate one of the aforementioned disorders:
- Abdominal pain and cramping.
- Vomiting and nausea.
- Bloating and gas.
- Anemia.
- Fatigue and tiredness.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Skin and joint problems.
Other Causes
Several additional factors may contribute to diarrhea during pregnancy, including:
- Stress or anxiety.
- Medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism.
- Certain medications, like antibiotics.
- Traveling.
When to See a Doctor
Generally, mild diarrhea is not a cause for concern; however, it is essential to seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur:
- Diarrhea persists for more than 48 hours despite dietary changes.
- Loose stools occur six or more times within 24 hours.
- A fever rises to 39°C (102°F) or higher.
- Stools become clear liquid or contain mucus or blood.
- Frequent vomiting occurs.
- Signs of dehydration appear, including dark urine, thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, or decreased urination.
- The pregnant woman suspects diarrhea may indicate the onset of labor.
- Intense pain in the rectum or abdomen is experienced.
Video: Causes of Diarrhea During Pregnancy
To learn more about why diarrhea may occur during pregnancy and how to manage it, watch the video below: