Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms includes diarrhea and constipation and this can be caused by bacterial or fungi infection and improper diet like and pregnancy. Almost one third female experience IBS during third trimester of pregnancy, some suffers from increase stool and some suffers from constipation.
There are reasons for IBS during pregnancy like ovarian hormonal changes and physical pressure developed by growing baby on the intestine(bowel) wall which blocks bowel movement. During last trimester most women water intake is reduced that also cause constipation.
Increased stress level in last trimester of pregnancy can cause anxiety and depression, which can lead to a vicious cycle of increasing GI symptoms and increasing stress.
Management of IBS
Drug therapies are avoided during pregnancy until it is very much required. So for IBS management one should avoid drugs to manage IBS because it can harm fetus development and try use safe methods. Even herbal home remedies and medicines should be avoided during pregnancy because there are many herbs and herbal medicine which can harm pregnancy.
To manage IBS during pregnancy first talk to your doctor because only doctor can tell you what to do and what kind of medicine you can take.
You can control this symptoms by using the following
- Increase liquid diet intake, try to drink water and fresh juice frequently and in small quantities but you should be careful about certain fruits(like papaya, pineapple, etc.).
- Eat adequate quantity of fibre foods.
- Reduction of gas-producing foods (e.g., beans, cabbage, legumes, cauliflower, broccoli, lentils, and Brussels sprouts) to reduce abdominal discomfort.
- Try to understand these symptoms are natural as you are doing natures most important job and just try to relax for some days?
Discuss with your doctor the use of any medications or supplements before taking them even they are natural and herbal.