Gastro Issues During Pregnancy
Gastrointestinal issues are one of the common complaints during pregnancy. These problems generally include issues with the esophagus, stomach, intestine and rectum. Sometimes they can also affect other organs related to the digestive system like the pancreas, liver and gallbladder.

They can happen due to an array of reasons, which may include hormonal changes, obesity, sedentary lifestyles, stress, etc. As a result, issues like nausea, heartburn, diarrhea and constipation become common during pregnancy.

However, most of the time, these issues can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. But being aware of what’s normal and what’s not can go a long way in supporting your pregnancy journey.

In this blog, we will dive into these GI issues and their solutions. So, keep reading.

4 Common gastrointestinal issues during pregnancy
Nausea and vomiting
Around 91% of pregnant women experience nausea during their first trimester. You can expect mild nausea at this period, which is also referred to as morning sickness. This is often accompanied by vomiting. Even for many women, it is one of the earlier indications for pregnancy.

At this time, your doctor may recommend certain medicines to reduce the discomfort and dehydration. Furthermore, some dietary changes like small and frequent meals and doctor’s recommendations can help you out.

After 16 weeks, vomiting usually is not pregnancy-related and might be due to an infection or gastritis. Rarely, it could also be an indication for some serious medical concerns like hepatitis, ulcers or pancreatitis. If you are experiencing nausea or vomiting even after the first trimester, you should call your doctor for help.

Heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux
Women undergo a lot of changes during pregnancy. Hormonal changes relax the muscles between the esophagus and stomach. At the same time, the uterus increases the pressure on the stomach. These things together create a perfect environment for heartburn. It has been seen that around 50% of pregnant women experience heartburn by the time they reach the third trimester.

Having frequent and small meals along with some medicines prescribed by your doctor can help you tackle the condition. Still, if you don’t get any relief, you can take the help of your doctor.

Diarrhea
Of course, it’s the worst feeling that can take your mood down. Usually, it happens due to eating something that upsets your stomach or viruses or bacteria. Sometimes certain medications like iron tablets can also contribute to this condition.

Diarrhea may also cause symptoms like abdominal cramps or pain, nausea, bloating or an urgent need to have a bowel movement. This can cause dehydration. So, it’s recommended to discuss this problem with your doctor.

In case, diarrhea occurs with increased vaginal discharge or mucus and low back pain, it could be a sign of preterm labor. In such a situation, talk to your doctor for further guidance.

Constipation
The hormonal changes during pregnancy, certain prenatal vitamins and iron therapy can affect the lower GI tract. This slows down the stools' transit process through the bowels. As a result, more water gets absorbed in stools which further makes them hard to pass.

In later stages, the pressure from the growing uterus can also contribute to constipation. At such a time, keeping yourself hydrated and taking more fiber can reduce or prevent this problem. Stool softeners or mild laxatives can also help you out.

If the constipation is severe and causes problems like abdominal pain, painful hemorrhoids or bloody stools, don’t take it lightly and call your doctor.

Takeaway!
GI issues are common during pregnancy. It’s a must to be aware of these problems to make informed decisions at the right moment. Talk to a gynecologist at Aakash Healthcare, Dwarka, Delhi. She will guide you throughout your pregnancy journey and help you overcome the challenges.