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Diarrhea during pregnancy can worry every young mother-to-be. What does it really mean? Is it dangerous for mothers and children? Could it mean any future problems with carrying the pregnancy to term? These and other questions are answered below.
Diarrhea in pregnancy: what could it mean?
At the outset, it is worth noting that diarrhea during pregnancy usually does not mean anything dangerous and you often do not need to report this ailment to your doctor. However, if diarrhea is accompanied by other symptoms, then you need to consult a gynecologist, and even if this is not possible – the opinion of a general practitioner.
Diarrhea in pregnancy: possible causes
- Often, diarrhea during pregnancy occurs when a woman is overly stressed by the current situation. This can be caused by the situation at home, at work, or in general stress related to getting pregnant and future motherhood;
- Diarrhea in pregnancy is also the result of overeating. It can often occur when a woman combines different flavors by consuming large amounts of different foods;
- Diarrhea in pregnancy can also be the result of a viral or bacterial infection. The body of a pregnant woman is slightly weakened, and thus more often exposed to various types of infections, especially in the autumn and spring seasons;
- Diarrhea in pregnancy is also a symptom of a food allergy. Observe when diarrhea occurs and whether it happens after eating certain foods. Then, you should avoid these products until the end of pregnancy;
- Long-lasting diarrhea should be treated. Pregnant women should also be careful not to become dehydrated.
Diarrhea in pregnancy – is it dangerous?
Diarrhea during pregnancy can be dangerous only if it lasts too long. Then the body of the future mother may become dehydrated, or electrolyte disturbances may occur. In any case, it will be dangerous not only for the woman, but also for her unborn child.
During diarrhea, it is recommended for pregnant women to take large amounts of fluids, especially mineral waters, with adequate amounts of minerals and electrolytes. In pharmacies, you can also buy activated charcoal, which helps to stop the typical symptoms of diarrhea. If taking safe activated charcoal does not help and diarrhea does not go away, then you should visit a doctor who will identify the causes of the disease and prescribe appropriate treatment. During the course of diarrhea, you should also limit the consumption of sweets, fatty foods and drinking carbonated drinks.