Diarrhea during pregnancy

Diarrhea during pregnancy: Causes and what to do

Although constipation is a more typical problem for pregnant women, diarrhea (loose stools) can also occur. It can be a short‑term disturbance or a symptom that requires attention. The causes of diarrhea can be varied.

Why does diarrhea occur?

• Hormonal changes: In early terms, hormonal restructuring can affect bowel function, causing both constipation and diarrhea.
• Dietary changes: A sudden shift to healthier food with a lot of fruit and fiber can temporarily cause stomach upset while the body adapts.
• Prenatal vitamins: Sometimes certain components of vitamin complexes can trigger an individual reaction in the form of diarrhea.
• Food poisoning: Pregnant women are more vulnerable to food‑borne infections.
• Approaching labor: At the end of the third trimester diarrhea can be one of the signs that the body "cleanses" and prepares for birth.

The main danger of diarrhea is the risk of dehydration. It is important to drink plenty of fluids (water, weak tea, compote) to compensate for its loss. Information on how important it is to maintain water balance can be read on the page "Dehydration". If diarrhea lasts more than a day or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, you should see a doctor.