You may experience a variety of symptoms while pregnancy, including diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, vomiting, nausea, and bloating. While these are caused by pregnancy-related physiological changes, they can also be caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a gastrointestinal disorder.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a digestive disorder that affects many people. Although the exact cause of IBS is unknown, a number of factors have been linked to it. These include abnormal intestine muscle contractions, nerve abnormalities in the digestive system, severe viral or bacterial infection, stress, and changes in gut microbes. Pregnancy can be hard on the gut and result in IBS.
Dr. Mokadam also offers some advice on how to manage IBS during pregnancy. Continue reading:
How Does IBS Affect Pregnancy?
Preterm labour can be caused by symptoms such as diarrhoea and dehydration. Irritation of the gut can stimulate the uterus at the same time. If left untreated, constipation can aggravate piles and cause rectal bleeding. Despite the fact that various studies indicate that the condition will not result in infertility, it is well known that stress is a major factor that can trigger both gastrointestinal symptoms and infertility.
Managing IBS During Pregnancy
Changes in lifestyle: Because IBS is a stress-sensitive disorder, de-stressing through relaxation and meditation is an important step and a mainstay of treatment. Irritable bowel syndrome and irritable brain syndrome go hand in hand. As a result, seek the assistance of cognitive behavioural therapy and employ positive methods of changing behaviour and thought processes that cause emotional stress. Consult a specialist if you are experiencing anxiety or depression.
Diet: There is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” IBS diet. Some people may benefit from eating bran, while others may benefit from avoiding white flour and sugar, as well as pizza, pasta, doughnuts, and sweets. Some people swear by anti-inflammatory foods such as coconut oil. Restricting the consumption of tea and coffee is advised (and alcohol abstinence).
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Eat small amounts of foods and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to keep diarrhoea, vomiting, and nausea at bay. Strawberries, blueberries, oranges, cucumbers, carrots, leafy greens, and whole grains are high in dietary fibre. To keep the gut healthy, include probiotics in your diet. Beans, lentils, broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, onion, and cabbage are all gas-producing foods. Make a list of foods that can cause intolerance and avoid them. It may be necessary to seek the advice of a nutritionist on what to eat and what to avoid.
Drugs and medication: These have a short-term effect and can cause unrelated symptoms. As a result, they are not the primary mode of treatment during pregnancy.
