Dealing with Diarrhea in Early Pregnancy
While constipation gets more attention, some women experience diarrhea in the first trimester. It's usually not a cause for concern, but it's helpful to know why it happens and how to manage it.
Potential Causes of Diarrhea
- Hormonal Changes: The same hormones that cause other early pregnancy symptoms can also affect your digestive system, sometimes speeding things up.
- Dietary Changes: You may have suddenly changed your diet to be healthier, introducing more fiber and water, which can temporarily loosen your stools.
- Prenatal Vitamins: For some women, the ingredients in prenatal vitamins can upset their stomach and lead to diarrhea.
- Food Sensitivities: Pregnancy can make you more sensitive to certain foods that didn't bother you before.
How to Manage It Safely
The main concern with diarrhea is dehydration. Focus on staying hydrated and eating gentle foods.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. You can also have clear broths or electrolyte drinks if you're losing a lot of fluid.
- Follow the BRAT Diet: For a day or two, stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Steer clear of high-fat, fried, spicy, and high-fiber foods until you feel better.
- Do Not Take Medication Without Asking: Never take any over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medication without first consulting your doctor.
Contact your doctor if your diarrhea lasts more than two days, or if it's accompanied by a fever, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration (like dark urine or dizziness).