Gastrointestinal issues during pregnancy?

 

One of the most typical concerns during pregnancy is gastrointestinal (GI) problems. After becoming pregnant, some women may start having GI problems. Gastrointestinal issues primarily affect the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum, but they can also affect the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, as well as other digestive organs. Prior to becoming pregnant, some women may already have chronic GI conditions that could get worse and need for specific attention while pregnant.

Gallstones, gastroesophageal reflux disease, nausea and vomiting, hyperemesis gravidarum, diarrhoea, and constipation are a few of the most typical gastrointestinal problems women go through during pregnancy. Prior to becoming pregnant, some women may have received a diagnosis for GI conditions including Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. It's also possible that these underlying issues existed but weren't recognised before becoming pregnant.

Some Causes of Gastrointestinal Issues during Pregnancy:

Even though stomach problems are rather frequent, you might not have had any before getting pregnant. They vary, thus the causes can also differ. Some typical causes or risk factors for digestive disorders during pregnancy include:

• Changes in hormones
•  Obesity
•  Stress
•  Food intolerance or allergy
•  Poor diet
• GI motility disorders
• Certain medications
•  Lack of exercise or activity
•  Thyroid disorders
•  Physical internal changes as the uterus grows
•  History of overusing laxatives
• Viral or bacterial infection
• Taking antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum

Gastrointestinal Issues during Pregnancy Be Treated:

In most cases, digestive problems during pregnancy do not pose a major risk to the baby's health. But you should let your physician know if you have any symptoms. He or she will be in a position to support you in managing your symptoms, keep an eye out for any deterioration, and decide whether you need any extra treatments. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action because different gastrointestinal problems react to various therapies.

You can manage your symptoms by making adjustments at home. Some of these modifications include:

 Eat a healthy diet: You can control or get rid of your GI issues by changing what, how frequently, and how much you consume. Depending on the nature of your condition, you might need to consume less caffeine and dairy, cut back on sugary processed foods, or up your consumption of fibre. Request a consultation with a qualified dietitian to establish your unique nutritional needs and the best eating plan for you.

Drink lots of fluids: Your GI problems can be reduced or eliminated by altering what, how often, and how much you eat. Depending on the severity of your disease, you may need to reduce your intake of dairy products and caffeine, limit your intake of sugary processed foods, or increase your intake of fibre. Make an appointment for a consultation with a competent dietitian to determine your individual dietary needs and the most suitable eating strategy for you.

Exercise: Regular exercise improves blood circulation and increases the amount of oxygen sent to organs, including the intestines, to aid in their effective and effortless movement. Aim for 30 minutes per day, five days a week, or at least two and a half hours a week of moderate exercise. To determine the finest exercises that would be suitable and safe for you, see your doctor.

Medication: Your doctor may recommend medication, which may include antacids, digestive enzymes, antidiarrheals, GI stimulants, and antiemetics, among other things, if your GI symptoms are severe, chronic, or impossible to treat with lifestyle changes. Your physician will advise you on the best suitable drug and dose.