Some of the most frequent concerns are gastrointestinal (GI) problems during pregnancy. Some women may suffer GI problems after getting pregnant. Gastrointestinal disorders generally affect the gastrointestinal system, namely the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum, but they can also affect other digestive organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Some women may have persistent GI issues prior to pregnancy, which might worsen and need extra care during pregnancy. Severe symptoms or discomfort due to digestive issues during pregnancy demand prompt medical attention. Obstetrics and gynecology specialists at PRK hospital provide accurate diagnosis and treatment approaches to these situations.
Causes of GI issues During Pregnancy – Pregnancy hormones can impact the digestive system. The hormone progesterone, which relaxes smooth muscles, frequently promotes relaxation and slows digestion in the stomach, small and large intestines, and uterus. Delayed emptying of the gallbladder is also a problem. This delay can increase the likelihood of gallstone development. Morning sickness (nausea or vomiting), constipation, and heartburn are all digestive discomforts of pregnancy and are connected to the digestive system's relaxed tone and sluggish function.
The expanding uterus affects the digestive system. The uterus can push on or even obstruct sections of the digestive system as it expands. This might result in constipation and decreased food movement. Boosting fluid intake, frequent exercise, and increasing fiber in your diet are all strategies to avoid constipation. Before using any medication for this disease, always consult with your doctor.
Many pregnant women experience changes in their appetite, such as:
- heightened hunger
- Appetite suppression
- Cravings
- Aversions
- Vomiting and nausea
Common digestive issues during pregnancy – As your baby grows, your body is changing at a rapid pace as well. Some of these changes may include digestive troubles such as –
- Nausea and vomiting – During the first 16 weeks of pregnancy, mild to severe nausea and vomiting are expected. Nausea is one of the primary signs in case of women's pregnancy. A doctor might prescribe medicine to treat severe symptoms of dehydration and pain. Mild symptoms may easily be managed with dietary adjustments or vitamin treatment under the supervision of your doctor. A bug or virus usually causes vomiting beyond 16 weeks of pregnancy. Vomiting can be caused by major health issues such as hepatitis, pancreatitis, or ulcers.
- Heartburn – Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux, affects three out of five persons. By the third trimester, up to 50% of women may have heartburn. Hormonal changes relax between the esophagus and stomach during pregnancy. The enlarging uterus also puts pressure on the stomach. All this is the reason for heartburn. Intense eating can help relieve heartburn. Standard therapies like antacids and proton pump inhibitors (Prevacid) are generally safe during pregnancy. You can visit a maternity doctor at PRK hospital if you have upper abdominal discomfort below the ribs. Epigastric discomfort is a rare symptom of fatty liver disease or preeclampsia, a dangerous blood pressure disorder that can occur during pregnancy.
- Diarrhea – Diarrhea is frequently caused by an infection (commonly gastroenteritis) or by eating anything that causes your stomach to upset. Consult your doctor to decide the best treatment choice for preventing dehydration and shortening the length of your sickness. Preterm labor symptoms include diarrhea that occurs without a known cause or in conjunction with low back discomfort and increased vaginal discharge or mucus. If you have this combination of symptoms, call your doctor right away.
- Constipation – Pregnancy hormones influence the lower GI tract, decreasing stool transit. This slowing down lets more water into the stools, making them difficult to pass. Some prenatal vitamins and iron supplements might cause constipation. The enlarging uterus can also make it difficult to pass feces, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids. Constipation can be treated by increasing fluid intake and fiber intake. Stool softeners are also safe to use, and certain iron supplements do too. Constipation requires a moderate laxative. Consult your doctor if you have stomach pain, bloody stools, or severe hemorrhoids.
GI issues will affect the majority of pregnant women at some stage. You can consult your doctor if your symptoms are severe or if you are worried.
Prevention – Things that assist lower acid production or prevent reflux are beneficial to most women in preventing the discomfort of heartburn. Here are a few useful pointers:
- Avoid traditional hot dishes and those high in fat or oil. Many individuals also advise avoiding citrus and chocolate.
- Instead of three large meals, eat several little meals spaced out throughout the day, similar to “grazing.”
- A few inches from rising from bed and waiting a few minutes after eating before going to bed or lying down.
- Drinking fluids between meals is preferable to drink fluids with a meal. This might result in an increase in the amount of food in the stomach.
The medication also helps you to lower this digestion problem during pregnancy. But make sure you always discuss or consult with your doctor any other new medicine during the pregnancy.
How to get help – PRK Hospitals is a well-known institution in Hyderabad, Telangana, for all maternity and newborn care needs. On Credihealth, you may locate a doctor list for PRK hospitals and arrange an appointment with the doctor of your choosing.
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