Some women have gastrointestinal issues that worsen and become more prominent during pregnancy. This may be due to increased hormone levels, but it may also be a result of the decreasing space in the body cavity for all of the internal organs. In this post, we’ll take a look at some common pregnancy woes - specifically gastrointestinal ones. We’ll also answer some common questions you might have: can pregnancy cause IBS symptoms, what does pregnancy gastritis feel like, and what helps digestive problems during pregnancy?
Why Does Pregnancy Cause Gastrointestinal Issues?
As mentioned above, the majority of common pregnancy symptoms are caused by rapidly changing and fluctuating hormone levels in a woman’s body. This rapid change affects everything from the joints to the esophageal sphincter (often spurring the onset of GERD). While these hormones will stick around until shortly after the baby is born, blood serum levels of pregnancy hormones tend to fluctuate on a daily basis. Additionally, hormone levels tend to wax and wane throughout the three trimesters of pregnancy.
Another factor that plays into pregnancy gastrointestinal issues is the decreased amount of space in the abdomen for the organs. Naturally, the organs that receive the most pressure and relocation are the small and large intestines. For an amazing visual of how your internal organs are affected during pregnancy, take a look at this interactive tool from the Chicago Museum of Science and History.
Furthermore, pregnancy often changes a woman’s lifestyle, due to many factors. Some women may find that they don’t have the energy to keep up with an active lifestyle and others may struggle to maintain a healthy diet while they are pregnant. All of these factors can contribute to gastrointestinal changes and symptoms.
What Are Some Common Gastrointestinal Issues During Pregnancy?
The hallmark symptom of pregnancy, nausea and vomiting (when severe, hyperemesis gravidarum), is often blamed on the increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy. Progesterone also is likely responsible for any acid reflux (a symptom of GERD) you may experience during your pregnancy, combined with the upward pressure that builds as your baby grows larger and larger.
The pressure that increases as your baby grows bigger can also have an effect on your pelvic floor, often leading to hemorrhoids. Many pregnant women also find that they struggle with constipation, further compounding any trouble with hemorrhoids. Keep in mind that some antacid medication that you may be taking for your acid reflux can, in and of itself, initiate and worsen constipation symptoms.
Finally, during pregnancy, the hormone estrogen is responsible for increasing blood levels of cholesterol. This helps the baby develop appropriately but can also be a source of gallstone development for the mother. Gallstones can be treated during pregnancy with care.
Can Pregnancy Cause IBS Symptoms?
In short, yes, it’s possible. Since medical professionals aren’t certain what causes IBS just yet, it’s difficult to say. Many IBS patients find that stress and anxiety (bringing a little person into the world can do this!) exacerbate their symptoms. If you find that you are struggling with bowel issues during your pregnancy, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our colorectal specialists.
What Does Pregnancy Gastritis Feel Like?
Gastritis is a blanket term that encompasses any condition that disrupts digestion. Most often, gastritis refers to the inflammation of the digestive tract’s lining (much like in IBS). It’s important to keep an eye on gastric symptoms in pregnant women because they can adversely affect a mother’s ability to absorb nutrients for herself and her baby.
Symptoms of pregnancy gastritis may include: bloating, abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, fullness, loss of appetite, and indigestion.
What Helps Digestive Problems During Pregnancy?
As much as you may not want to move, physical activity can help your body stay regular and reduce inflammation.
A healthy, balanced diet that minimizes high-cholesterol foods and other personal triggers is preferred.
If you are having trouble with acid reflux, be cognizant of how many antacids you are consuming. It may be better to take a daily OTC acid reducer to reduce the amount of calcium you are consuming.
It may also help to eat more, smaller meals throughout the day to reduce the burden on your digestive system.
Try drinking more water! You will be surprised how much this simple tip can help.
If you are suffering immensely, don’t hesitate to reach out to a gastrointestinal specialist or your OBGYN.