Dealing With Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Pregnancy

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder of the colon that is characterized most commonly by cramping, bloating, constipation and diarrhea. The causes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome are still unknown and being researched diligently. Theories have been (and are being) examined; none have been proven, neither have any been rejected.

There are five categories of treatment for irritable bowel syndrome: treatment through diet, treatment through supplements, treatment through alternative therapies, treatment through stress management, and treatment through prescription medications.

Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, as well as symptoms of the disease, may vary from patient to patient so you must discuss the specifics of your case with your physician.

This is especially required of pregnant women as medications may be dangerous at this time. Two medications that are commonly prescribed for pregnant women are Diclectin (which relieves morning sickness) and Bentyl (which helps relax the muscles and prevents contractions and spasms.)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome does not prevent pregnancy, further it is in fact a very common condition in pregnancy. If a woman has Irritable Bowel Syndrome prior to becoming pregnant, the hormonal changes she experiences throughout her pregnancy will intensify the symptoms and vary from trimester to trimester.

During the first trimester most women are oftentimes unaware of hormonal effects on the body, likewise symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be unnoticed. As the pregnancy progresses to the second trimester the hormonal changes are more apparent and so are the symptoms of the disorder.

In the third trimester, the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome usually intensify with the most common symptom being constipation. The cause of this is that during pregnancy the level of progesterone in the body is elevated which in turn causes the muscles to relax.

This results in a slowdown in the digestive system. Diet is also a major contributing factor in Irritable Bowel Syndrome in pregnancy. Lack of exercise and improper diet bond together to cause constipation, gas, and bloating.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (and its related symptoms)left untreated can be very dangerous whether pregnant or not. It is critical to address it and pursue treatment. There are a number of safe treatment options for the pregnant woman. Among them are making changes in her diet to eliminate foods that aggravate symptoms such as fatty, sugary, and acidy foods.

Adding fiber to the diet and drinking six to eight glasses of water daily are helpful. It is important to get adequate sleep.

A woman suffering with symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome should see a physician who will diagnose, access the severity of the case, and recommend treatment.

Recommended Resources

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