Are you experiencing Gastrointestinal issues?

Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are the most frequent problems during pregnancy. This is due to GI problems affecting the gastrointestinal tract, primarily the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy can also contribute to digestive problems and other GI functions.

Some women may experience GI disorders that develop after becoming pregnant. Others have chronic gastrointestinal diseases prior to pregnancy that requires special consideration during pregnancy. Understanding the prevalence of various GI issues during pregnancy is necessary to optimize care.

Therefore, SMILES, in this article focuses on the most common symptoms of GI disorders during pregnancy, its causes, and the ways to manage them.

Because there is a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders, the symptoms may vary. Some of them include:

In fact, nausea is one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy in the first semester that can often be accompanied by vomiting. In rare cases, it is referred to as morning sickness, however, it can become severe and require immediate treatment to manage.

Diarrhoea is a common condition during pregnancy that causes loose or watery stools caused by viruses or bacteria. This can also be caused by certain medications. While diarrhoea is common and generally not serious, the patient should consult a doctor if experiencing blood of mucus in stool.

Constipation is having an infrequent bowel movement or having hard to pass bowel movements. It is generally described as having fewer than three bowel movements a week. The pressure from the enlarging uterus on the rectum and lower part of the intestines may cause constipation.

Heartburn affects many pregnant women due to increased progesterone, the hormone that relaxes muscles, also relaxes the stomach valve that keeps acid out of the esophagus. Moreover, the growing uterus crowds the stomach, forcing acid into the esophagus.

Bloating, a build-up of gas in the stomach and intestines may occur during early pregnancy. This is due to the excess gas production and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, which slows down the digestive system. Bloating can cause pain, discomfort, and a stuffed feeling in the upper abdomen.

A gallstone is a collection of extra cholesterol and bile acids that form a stone in the gallbladder. Pregnant women are at increased risk of gallstones due to the increased estrogen levels – says Dr. Parameshwara, one of the best gastroenterologists in Bangalore. Gallstones, if left untreated can cause the gallbladder to become infected.

While many gastrointestinal problems are very common during pregnancy, women may not have experienced any before. Some of the commoncauses of gastrointestinal conditions during pregnancy can include:

• ● Changes in hormones
• ● Obesity or overweight
• ● Certain medications
• ● Poor nutrition
• ● Thyroid problems
• ● Lack of physical exercise
• ● Stress
• ● Ove usage of laxatives
• ● Viral or bacterial infections
• ● Food intolerance or allergies

Gastrointestinal diseases are very common during pregnancy, but they do not cause serious health complications. Most gastrointestinal infections caused by virus or bacteria normally resolves in a few days.

The experts of gastroenterology at SMILES recommend some home remedies that help manage GI issues.

Increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Avoid sugary foods and processed foods. Limit caffeine and dairy products in your daily intake.

Certain GI issues can cause dehydration and so increase the amount of fluids you take in, including water and juices. It helps improves digestion and keeps your GI tract moving regularly.

Regular exercise boosts blood circulation to the internal organs which help bowels to move smoothly. So, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day. Speak to your doctor and find the best workouts that are safe during pregnancy.

If your symptoms of GI diseases are persistent and unmanageable, you may be recommended medications which include antacids, digestive enzymes, antidiarrheals, and GI stimulants, etc.

You should consult with your gastrointestinal specialist and seek immediate medical care if you have any of the following digestive symptoms.

• ● Heartburn that persists and/or becomes more severe.
• ● A sensation of food caught in your chest or throat
• ● The discomfort that interferes with daily activities
• ● Unusual abdominal pain
• ● Extreme fatigue
• ● Dramatic weight loss
• ● Persistent diarrhea or constipation

Need more information about gastrointestinal diseases during pregnancy?

Schedule an appointment with our top gastroenterologists at SMILES.