Gas and Bloating

Gases and abdominal bloating during pregnancy: Why does it happen?

The feeling of fullness, abdominal distension, and increased gas production (flatulence) is another common symptom related to the digestive system during pregnancy. As with constipation and heartburn, the main culprit is the hormone progesterone.

Causes of increased gas production

Progesterone relaxes all the muscles of your body, including the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. This leads to slower digestion. Food stays longer in the intestines, giving bacteria more time to ferment it, resulting in more gas.

In addition, there are other factors:

• Uterine pressure: The enlarged uterus presses on the intestines, which can further slow the passage of food and gas.
• Dietary changes: Often during pregnancy women start eating more healthy but gas‑producing foods such as broccoli, beans, whole grains.
• Swallowing air: While eating or drinking, especially if you rush, you may swallow excess air.

This condition is not dangerous for the baby, but it can cause significant discomfort for you. Avoiding certain products that provoke gas production and paying careful attention to the eating process can greatly relieve the symptoms.