Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are some of the most common complaints among pregnant women.
Unpleasant symptoms often result from problems with the gastrointestinal tract, primarily the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum – and less frequently, the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Some expectant mothers may have chronic GI disorders prior to pregnancy that can worsen and require special consideration.
Pregnancy hormones can have a significant impact on the digestive system. The hormone progesterone, responsible for smooth muscle relaxation, can cause digestion to slow as food moves through the stomach and small and large intestines.
The gallbladder is also affected by this slowing, with delayed emptying increasing the potential for gallstone formation. Many of the digestive discomforts of pregnancy, such as morning sickness (nausea or vomiting), constipation, and heartburn, are all related to the slowed function of the digestive system.
The growing uterus itself can also affect the digestive system, sometimes pressing on or even blocking parts of the GI tract. This can lead to slowed movement of food and constipation. Drinking plenty of fluids, exercising regularly, and increasing dietary fiber are some simple ways to prevent constipation. Always ask your healthcare provider before taking any medication to relieve constipation while pregnant.
Many women have appetite changes during pregnancy, such as:
Increased hunger
Decreased appetite
Cravings
Aversions
Nausea and vomiting
While rare, some women develop pica, a craving to eat things other than food – like dirt, clay, ice, raw rice, flour, starch, or coal. The craving indicates a nutritional deficiency, such as not getting enough iron.
FOODS TO AVOID DURING PREGNANCY
According to Health.gov, pregnant women should avoid eating the following foods:
Fish
Alcohol
Raw shellfish
Certain meats
Raw or undercooked greens and sprouts
Raw or undercooked eggs
Soft cheese
Caffeine
Unpasteurized milk or fruit juices
FOODS TO EAT FOR GOOD GUT HEALTH DURING PREGNANCY
According to Health.gov, pregnant women can benefit from eating the following foods:
Proteins (lean meats and chicken, eggs, seafood, beans and lentils, nuts, seeds, tofu etc.)
Low-fat or fat-free dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese, lactose-free dairy, fortified soy beverages like soy milk or soy yogurt etc.)
Oils (vegetable oil, olive oil, and oily foods like seafood, avocado, nuts etc.)
RISK FACTORS
Advanced maternal age Mothers older than age 35 face a higher risk of pregnancy complications.
Lifestyle choices Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs can put a pregnancy at risk.
Maternal health problems High blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid disease, heart or blood disorders, poorly controlled asthma, and infections can increase pregnancy risks.
Pregnancy complications Various complications that develop during pregnancy can pose risks. Examples include an unusual placenta position, fetal growth less than the 10th percentile for gestational age (fetal growth restriction) and rhesus (Rh) sensitization – a potentially serious condition that can occur when your blood group is Rh negative and your baby's blood group is Rh positive.
Multiple pregnancies Pregnancy risks are higher for women carrying more than one baby at a time.
Pregnancy history A history of pregnancy-related hypertension disorders, such as preeclampsia, increases the risk of having this diagnosis again during the next pregnancy. Mothers who have given birth prematurely face an increased risk of another early delivery.
SYMPTOMS
Common digestive symptoms include: Bloating, constipation and diarrhea.
Hemorrhoids are swollen, painful, or itchy veins in or around the anus.
About 50 percent of pregnant women develop hemorrhoids.
Contributing factors
Straining due to constipation
Pressure from the growing uterus
Increased blood volume in the pelvic area
Hormonal changes
Pushing during labor may worsen symptoms
Relief and outlook
Eating a high fiber diet helps reduce constipation.
Drinking plenty of fluids can ease symptoms.
Most hemorrhoids improve after delivery.
They are most common during the third trimester.
Common nausea and vomiting include: morning sickness (regular) and Hyperemesis Gravidarum (severe).
Morning Sickness (regular - nausea & vomiting)
Commonly called morning sickness but can occur any time of day or night.
Usually begins during the first six to eight weeks of pregnancy.
It is often the earliest pregnancy symptom.
Nausea may occur with or without vomiting.
Common causes:
Rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin, which helps form the placenta
Increased estrogen and progesterone levels
Common triggers:
Strong smells due to heightened sense of smell
Bright lights
Television screens
Car rides
Toothpaste
Certain foods, even foods previously tolerated
Sometimes there are no identifiable triggers at all
Hyperemesis Gravidarum (severe)
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of nausea and vomiting.
Symptoms include:
Persistent and uncontrollable vomiting
Inability to keep food or liquids down
Weight loss of up to 5 percent or more
Severe dehydration
Electrolyte imbalances
Unlike morning sickness, symptoms do not improve over time.
Medical treatment is often necessary.
Contact a doctor immediately if symptoms are suspected.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Even if your GI symptoms are mild, it is important to let your doctor know. Your GI specialist can recommend some tips for managing symptoms and monitor you more closely throughout your pregnancy.
If your symptoms are severe, become severe, and are persistent, contact your doctor right away. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
Vomiting blood
Bloody or black stools
Dramatic weight loss
Severe discomfort that interferes with daily life
Choking episodes
Pain or difficulty when swallowing
Extreme fatigue
DIAGNOSTIC TEST
Blood test
Stool test
Physical exam
TREATMENT
Maintain a healthy diet. Changing what, how frequently, and how much you eat may help manage or relieve GI symptoms. Depending on the issue you’re experiencing, you may need to increase the amount of fiber in your diet, avoid sugary, processed foods, or limit caffeine and dairy intake. Speak with a registered dietitian for a customized nutrition plan to meet your needs.
Stay hydrated Increase the amount of fluids you consume each day, including water, fruit juice, and clear soups. Getting plenty of fluids aids in digestion and helps keep your GI tract moving. And because certain GI issues can cause dehydration, taking in adequate fluids is key.
Exercise regularly Exercise promotes blood circulation and brings more oxygen to the organs, including the bowels. Aim for at least two and a half hours of moderate physical activity a week, or about 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Speak with your doctor to determine the best workout plan for you.
Medication If your GI symptoms are severe, persistent, or unmanageable even after lifestyle modifications, your doctor may prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms. Medication may include antacids, digestive enzymes, antidiarrheals, GI stimulants, and antiemetics..
What gastrointestinal issues are normal during pregnancy?
While many GI issues are widely experienced by pregnant women, you may not have experienced any of them before. Some common causes or risk factors of gastrointestinal conditions during pregnancy can include:
Hormone fluctuations
GI motility disorders
Obesity
Certain medications
Poor diet
Thyroid disorders
Physical internal changes due to a growing uterus
Lack of exercise
Stress
History of laxative overuse
Antacid (containing calcium or aluminum) use
Viral or bacterial infection
Food intolerance or allergy
What are GI symptoms during pregnancy?
It’s important to know which symptoms are normal and which require medical treatment. These symptoms are commonly experienced in pregnant women:
Nausea and vomiting
Heartburn
Diarrhea
Constipation
What contributes to the need to urinate more often when you’re pregnant?
Bladder refills more often, making frequent trips to the bathroom necessary.
Blood volume in the body doubles, so there will be more liquid for the kidneys to filter.
Hormonal changes loosen and soften the urethra’s ligaments, making it harder to hold your urine.
There is less room for urine as the growing baby pressure on the bladder – with the most pressure coming at the end of pregnancy when the baby drops lower into the pelvis.
The body absorbs more fluid from the legs during sleep, increasing the urge to urinate, especially if the feet or legs are swollen.
What is pregnancy gas?
Your body makes gas as the natural bacteria in your stomach and intestines break down food. When you eat, drink, laugh, breathe, and talk, air is swallowed as well.
Developing babies do not feel the gas pain or pressure experienced by their mothers. The movement and sounds that gas makes as it moves through your intestines might even be soothing for babies in the womb.
How can I treat gas and bloating problems during pregnancy?
There are a few things you can do to minimize gas and bloating, such as:
Drink plenty of water.
Drink from a cup or a glass to encourage slower swallowing.
Cut back on gas-producing foods.
Try peppermint or ginger tea.
Maintain a healthy diet and change your eating habits if needed.
Exercise often.
Add fiber to your diet gradually.
Don’t chew gum.
Never smoke.
Dress comfortably.
Is being lactose intolerant during pregnancy normal?
If you didn’t consume much dairy prior to pregnancy, you may find that your body doesn’t tolerate it as well as it used to. If you are lactose intolerant or have a milk allergy, gas, bloating, pain, and diarrhea are common.
What does IBS in pregnancy feel like?
Many expectant mothers experience a variety of digestive issues during pregnancy, including diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, vomiting, nausea, and bloating.
Does pregnancy cause IBS symptoms?
Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy may contribute to IBS symptoms.
What foods trigger IBS?
Some common food to avoid if you have IBS while pregnant include:
Dairy products (milk, cheese, ice cream etc.)
High sugar foods
Carbonated drinks
Caffeine
Sugar-free gum
What lifestyle changes help manage IBS during pregnancy?
These lifestyle changes can ease IBS symptoms:
Eat a well-balanced diet high in essential nutrients.
Eat smaller portions.
Skip spicy foods.
Drink more water.
Never drink alcohol or smoke.
Exercise daily.
Keep stress levels low through yoga and meditation
What helps relieve constipation during pregnancy?
Drink plenty of water.
Add prune juice to your diet.
Eat more whole-grain foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Ask your GI specialist about stool softeners.
What helps relieve heartburn during pregnancy?
Eat five or six small meals a day, instead of three bigger ones.
Avoid caffeine.
Limit spicy, fried, or rich foods.
After you eat, wait 30 minutes before lying down.
Try an over-the-counter antacid, like Tums.
How can I avoid food poisoning during pregnancy?
Food poisoning can cause serious problems for a woman and her fetus since vomiting and diarrhea can cause significant water loss and chemical imbalance. To avoid food poisoning, follow the following guidelines:
Avoid all raw and undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat. Make sure meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Wash all raw produce thoroughly under running tap water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
Keep your kitchen clean by washing your hands, knives, countertops, and cutting boards thoroughly after handling uncooked foods.
Can GI problems cause miscarriage?
IBS, causing diarrhea or dehydration, could potentially cause preterm labor. Constipation due to IBS during pregnancy may result in rectal bleeding or even piles problems. It can raise the chances of miscarriage or even ectopic pregnancy.
Can I take probiotics while pregnant?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that boast many health benefits. Taking probiotics is generally safe and well tolerated by pregnant women. We recommend speaking with your doctor before taking any prebiotics, supplements, or medications.
What yogurt is best for pregnant women?
Greek yogurt typically has twice the protein of regular yogurt, making it a great choice for pregnant women. It's also a great source of probiotics, B vitamins, phosphorus, and calcium.
What foods are best for your GI heath during pregnancy?
Some common foods the support strong gut health during pregnancy include:
Beans
Sweet potatoes
Whole grains
Walnuts
Greek yogurt
Broccoli and dark leafy greens
Lean meats and poultry
Colorful fruits and veggies
Avocados
Dried fruit
Can I drink kombucha while pregnant?
No, kombucha isn't considered safe during pregnancy because it contains alcohol and caffeine. It is also acidic and poses the risk of contamination.
Can I have honey while pregnant?
Yes, it's safe to eat honey during pregnancy. But do not give honey to babies under a year old because of the bacteria’s potential to cause a rare illness called botulism.
Are blueberries good for pregnancy?
Yes. Blueberries are an excellent source of nutrients during pregnancy. They contain Vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and folate – all great for healthy fetal development.
Is green tea good during pregnancy?
Green teas, including matcha, are considered safe during pregnancy. While they're also much lower in caffeine than coffee, limit yourself to less than three cups of green tea a day.
What teas should I avoid during pregnancy?
Studies show that if you drink chamomile tea regularly, you may have a higher risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, or low birth weight. Other herbal teas to avoid include:
Alfalfa
Black cohosh
Blue cohosh
Comfrey
Dong quai
Ephedra (called ma huang in traditional Chinese medicine and banned in the United States since 2004)
European mistletoe
Goldenseal
Hibiscus
Horehound
Kava
Labrador
Lemongrass
Licorice root
Mugwort
Nettle leaf (also called stinging nettle leaf)
Passion flower
Pennyroyal
Rosemary
Sage
Sassafras
Saw palmetto
Vetiver
Yarrow
Yerba mate
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To learn more about treatment for GI tract and digestive issues in Charleston, SC, get in touch today! Our team is committed to providing a higher standard of caring, with our experienced gastroenterologists equipped to treat a wide range of GI issues.
If you are experiencing painful or unpleasant GI tract symptoms, schedule your appointment today! No referral needed!
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this website is intended for educational purposes only and is not a replacement for medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. Every pregnancy and medical condition is different, and symptoms and treatment options can vary from person to person.
Reading this content or contacting our office through this website does not establish a physician–patient relationship. Always talk with your gastroenterologist, obstetrician, or another qualified healthcare professional about your symptoms, concerns, or treatment decisions.
If your symptoms worsen, become severe, or feel urgent, seek medical care right away. In case of an emergency, call 911.
We respect your privacy and handle personal information in accordance with healthcare privacy laws, including HIPAA where applicable. Please avoid submitting sensitive medical details through online forms unless requested by our medical team.
To learn more about treatment for GI tract and digestive issues in Charleston, SC, get in touch today! Our team is committed to providing a higher standard of caring, with our experienced gastroenterologists equipped to treat a wide range of GI issues.
