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Diarrhea and Early Pregnancy

What Causes It And Remedies

Diarrhea during pregnancy is one of the most annoying discomforts that may be experienced. Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of reasons such as sudden changes in your diet. Other reasons for diarrhea in early pregnancy may include taking prenatal vitamins or drinking more water than you're normally used to consuming. As your body adjusts to these sudden changes, it results in loose, watery stools and frequent bowel movements. Diarrhea can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

If you're having three or more loose bowel movements daily, you're probably experiencing diarrhea. If that's the case and you're having bad diarrhea, you should keep in mind that you need to stay hydrated. You can lose a significant amount of fluids when experiencing diarrhea while pregnant, so make sure you're re-hydrating yourself. In most cases diarrhea is not a serious problem, but it shouldn't be taken to lightly. 

However, it should be noted that diarrhea in pregnancy can also be a result of food poisoning, stomach bug, or intestinal infections. So, if you suspect this might be the case, consult your doctor immediately.

Is diarrhea a sign of pregnancy?

Simply put, yes. Hormonal changes that occur in early pregnancy can slow down your digestive system.This can cause bloating, constipation and diarrhea. The higher levels of hormone progesterone can affect the way your gastrointestinal tract works, and while most women would have constipation, others may experience upset stomach and diarrhea.

What causes diarrhea during early pregnancy?

There are a few associations between diarrhea and pregnancy, so don't be surprised if you experience diarrhea in the first few weeks of pregnancy. The sudden changes in your diet or the hormonal changes in your body can sometimes cause an upset stomach and diarrhea. Diarrhea also occurs because some pregnant women develop an aversion to particular foods. These could be food they have eaten before, but eating them while pregnant can cause diarrhea. 

Even though taking prenatal vitamins is good for your health and the health of your developing baby, this can also upset your stomach and cause diarrhea.

Treating diarrhea during early pregnancy

Most cases of diarrhea in pregnancy will clear up on its own. However, if you have constant diarrhea, there are some ways you can ease your discomfort.

The best thing you can do is to drink a lot of water, juice, and broth. You need to stay hydrated, so drink water to replace the electrolytes your body has lost. Avoid fried, high-fat, spicy and high-fiber foods, because they can make diarrhea worse. Also, steer clear of milk and dairy products.

Apples, bananas, brown rice can be very beneficial if you're having nausea and diarrhea. 

Ginger tea is also one of the best home remedies for diarrhea. The easiest way to make ginger tea is to add a few pieces of ginger to a small saucepan with two cups of water. When the water comes to a boil, lower the heat to low simmer and allow it to stand for ten to fifteen minutes. Strain and consume. 

Another great remedy for diarrhea is the combination of honey and water. Add three to four tablespoons of honey in a glass of water and consume this mixture every day. 

When to seek treatment?

If your diarrhea doesn't clear up on its own or you're having diarrhea for a week, you may need to consult your doctor. Diarrhea during early pregnancy can be also caused by parasites or bacteria, so you may need antibiotics. To determine the real cause, you will need to make an appointment to see your doctor or health care provider. Your body can become dehydrated, and this is a risk factor for premature labor. 

Watch out for symptoms that may occur along with diarrhea in pregnancy. Seek immediate help if you experience black diarrhea, severe cramping, mucus of blood in the stool, severe headache, vomiting, fever, rapid heartbeat and reduced urine.