Throwing up and diarrhea while pregnant

Vomiting and diarrhea when pregnant: Is it serious?

Vomiting and diarrhea are common during pregnancy. They can vary in duration and severity.

Below, we investigate what leads to both vomiting and diarrhea during pregnancy and which treatments work.

Pregnant women frequently experience vomiting and diarrhea, and these issues sometimes overlap. This does not always indicate an underlying health problem.

It is also worth keeping in mind that the two symptoms may have different causes, and one, both, or neither may stem from pregnancy.

So what causes digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea during pregnancy? The answers can vary, based on the stage of the pregnancy:

First trimester

During the first trimester, one of the most common symptoms of pregnancy is morning sickness. This involves nausea and vomiting and typically occurs before week 17.

For most women, morning sickness lasts for a few weeks to months, but it can last for the entire pregnancy. Some women vomit once or twice a day, while others feel nauseous all day.

One medical review reports that anxiety, depression, and negative relationships with family can each make nausea and vomiting worse or occur more frequently.

Learn more about morning sickness here.

Meanwhile, stress can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea.

Other common causes of diarrhea during pregnancy include viral and bacterial infections and certain medications. It is important to note that diarrhea can be dangerous, leading to potentially serious issues such as dehydration.

Learn more about dehydration during pregnancy here.

Second trimester

If vomiting starts or continues into the second trimester, it may indicate hyperemesis gravidarum.

This rare disorder causes vomiting and nausea that can be severe enough to require hospitalization. It can also lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, dehydration, and a 5% loss in original body weight.

About 22% of women with hyperemesis gravidarum experience the symptoms — nausea and vomiting — throughout their pregnancies.

On the other hand, nausea and vomiting that appear after the end of week 16 may not be related to pregnancy. In this case, the cause can range from a stomach virus to a more serious issue, such as an ulcer or hepatitis.

Third trimester

Heartburn is common during pregnancy, especially later on, as the growing fetus places pressure on the stomach. Also, the sphincter between the stomach and the esophagus relaxes during pregnancy.

As a result of either or both factors, stomach acid can rise up into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Learn more about heartburn during pregnancy here.

It is important to note that a sudden onset of nausea and vomiting during the second half of pregnancy can stem from preeclampsia, a serious complication that can lead to preterm delivery.

Some other signs and symptoms of preeclampsia include high blood pressure, heartburn, and swelling of the face and hands.

Learn more about preeclampsia here.

Also, diarrhea can be a sign of preterm labor. In some cases, a woman experiences no other signs, or there may be mucus-like vaginal discharge and lower back pain.

Various common health issues can cause both diarrhea and vomiting, including:

• food poisoning
• the stomach flu
• pancreatitis
• a food allergy

However, having diarrhea and vomiting at the same time does not necessarily mean that they are symptoms of one health issue.

Factors such as stress and preexisting conditions can also lead to either or both of these symptoms.

Mild vomiting and diarrhea during pregnancy typically require no specialized treatment. The symptoms may resolve on their own.

Some home care strategies include:

• eating bland foods, such as toast, bananas, crackers, and rice
• taking a prenatal vitamin
• eating more frequently
• eating toast or crackers in bed first thing in the morning, before moving
• taking frequent, single bites of foods such as nuts or crackers

If symptoms are more severe or are otherwise negatively affecting daily life, the following treatment options are safe during pregnancy:

• vitamin B6, which is available over the counter
• doxylamine, an ingredient in sleep aids
• prescription medication that contains both B6 and doxylamine
• prescription antiemetic drugs

It is especially important to consult a doctor about diarrhea and safe treatments, which can include loperamide (Imodium).

Learn how to manage and treat vomiting.

It may not be possible to prevent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but taking the following steps may help:

• eating smaller meals
• eating foods that are easy to digest
• drinking plenty of fluids
• avoiding taste or smell triggers for nausea

A pregnant woman should see a doctor about vomiting or diarrhea that is severe or lasts for more than a few days.

In general, it is a good idea to contact a doctor about any diarrhea, lower back pain, and an increase in vaginal discharge.

Also, see a doctor about any symptoms of dehydration, including:

• dizziness or fainting when standing
• low amounts of urine, which is dark
• an inability to urinate
• a pounding heartbeat
• being unable to keep down liquids

It may be best to contact a doctor about any health concerns or unusual physical changes during pregnancy.

Diarrhea and vomiting are common during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.

Either issue can lead to complications, and a woman should receive prompt medical care for severe diarrhea or vomiting. A doctor may recommend dietary changes, vitamins, medications, or a combination.

4 common pregnancy-related GI issues, and when to call the doctor | Your Pregnancy Matters

Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are common during pregnancy. As your baby grows, you’ll have less available real estate in your abdomen for your intestines, stomach, and esophagus to function. Additionally, hormonal changes can affect digestion and other GI functions.

Most GI symptoms pass relatively quickly during pregnancy and can be treated with over-the-counter remedies at home. However, to avoid potential complications, women should be aware of what’s normal and when to call the doctor when it comes to GI health during pregnancy.

1. Nausea and vomiting

During the first 16 weeks of pregnancy, we expect some mild to moderate nausea and vomiting – the infamous period of morning sickness. In fact, for many women, nausea is one of the earliest symptoms of pregnancy.

If you have severe symptoms, a doctor can recommend medication to reduce dehydration and discomfort. For mild symptoms, or if you prefer not to take medication, you can usually manage symptoms with dietary changes or vitamin therapy under the care of your doctor. 

After 16 weeks of pregnancy, vomiting typically is not pregnancy-related and might be due to a bug or infection. In rare cases, vomiting can be caused by more serious medical concerns, such as hepatitis, pancreatitis, or ulcers. If you experience nausea or vomiting past the first trimester of pregnancy, don’t assume it’s pregnancy-related, and don’t let your doctor assume so, either, without checking for underlying causes.

2. Heartburn

Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux, affects three of five people in the general population. By the time women reach the third trimester, as many as half will experience heartburn at one point or another. During pregnancy, the muscle between the esophagus and stomach relaxes due to hormonal changes related to pregnancy. At the same time, the growing uterus puts increased pressure on the stomach. The combination is a perfect storm for heartburn.

Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help stave off heartburn. Standard treatments – antacids, proton pump inhibitors (Prevacid), or h3 blockers (Tagamet or Pepcid)  – are generally safe during pregnancy.

However, if you experience pain below the ribs in your upper abdomen, call your doctor. Although rare, epigastric pain can be a sign of fatty liver disease or preeclampsia, a serious blood pressure disease that can arise suddenly during pregnancy. 

3. Diarrhea

Let’s face it – diarrhea is the worst. When it lasts just a few days, diarrhea typically is related to an infection (usually gastroenteritis) or eating something that upsets your stomach. Check in with your doctor to determine the best treatment option to reduce dehydration and duration of illness.

Diarrhea that develops without an identifiable trigger or in combination with low back pain and increased vaginal discharge or mucus can be symptoms of preterm labor. Call your doctor immediately if you experience this combination of symptoms.

4. Constipation

Pregnancy hormones affect the lower GI tract, effectively slowing down the transit of stool through the bowels. This slow-motion process allows more water to be absorbed in the stools, which makes them hard to pass. Certain prenatal vitamins and iron therapy also can contribute to constipation. Later in pregnancy, pressure from the growing uterus can also make it harder to pass stools, which increases the risk of hemorrhoids.

Drinking more fluids and eating more fiber is effective in reducing and preventing constipation. Stool softeners are safe to use as well, and some iron supplements actually contain them. More severe constipation might require a mild laxative. Talk to your doctor about additional treatments if you experience abdominal pain, bloody stools, or painful hemorrhoids.

Most women will experience GI concerns at some point during pregnancy. If your symptoms are serious or if you are concerned, talk to your doctor. It’s better to be safe, and we’re here to help your pregnancy – and GI tract – flow smoothly.

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Toxemia, Intestinal Problems, and Heartburn

Find out how pregnancy affects your digestive tract, which trimesters are more likely to cause indigestion and nausea, and what to do to manage them.

During pregnancy, the burden on the mother's body increases. The body needs more nutrients, the body produces additional hormones. And the growing fetus puts pressure on neighboring organs, including the stomach and intestines. We tell you what symptoms are observed in each trimester, how to cope with toxicosis and get rid of heartburn. nine0005

Contents:

• 2. Toxicosis and pregnancy
• 3. Causes, risks and treatment of diarrhea during pregnancy
• 4. Heartburn and stomach pain during pregnancy
• 5. Bloating, constipation and microbiota during pregnancy
• 6. Note

Changes in the work of the gastrointestinal tract by trimesters of pregnancy

The average duration of pregnancy is 40 weeks, which are usually divided into trimesters in accordance with the stages of intrauterine development of the child. nine0005

Each trimester is accompanied by a number of changes in the body, including in the gastrointestinal tract:

The Atlas Genetic Test will help you find out how your genes affect the level of female sex hormones necessary for fertility and pregnancy.

Causes of gastrointestinal problems during pregnancy

Every pregnancy is accompanied by inevitable changes in the functioning of the digestive system. They are most often caused by hormonal changes and increased stress on organs, but they can also be associated with lifestyle and health conditions, for example:

• Sedentary lifestyle and unbalanced diet;
• Certain drugs, including calcium or aluminum antacids;
• Viral and bacterial infections;
• Intolerance to certain nutrients and allergic reactions;
• Stress;
• Diseases of the thyroid gland.

If you have chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and you are planning a pregnancy, try to consult your doctor in advance. Symptoms of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or acid reflux are more likely to get worse during pregnancy. Your doctor will help prepare your body and create a prevention plan to help relieve symptoms during this time. nine0005

Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a functional bowel disease that causes frequent abdominal pain, impaired peristalsis, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.

Morning sickness, vomiting and general malaise during pregnancy

Morning sickness and morning sickness during early pregnancy are common, because the body undergoes important changes necessary for the development of the child.

up to 90%

women experience nausea during pregnancy

Doctors find it difficult to say with certainty why pregnant women feel sick in the morning. The main theory is hormonal changes. But there are some patterns associated with an increased risk of morning sickness:

• Multiple pregnancy;
• Toxicosis during previous pregnancy;
• History of morning sickness during pregnancy in close relatives;
• Tendency to motion sickness in transport;
• Use of oral contraceptives containing estrogen before pregnancy; nine0010
• Frequent migraines;
• BMI 30 and above;
• Elevated levels of stress hormones

Risks of severe morning sickness and how to reduce nausea

Nausea and vomiting are usually not associated with a risk for mother and child and disappear by 16-20 weeks of pregnancy, but it is not necessary to wait so long - there are ways that can help reduce nausea and enjoy the process of waiting for a new person:

• Get plenty of rest - fatigue increases toxicosis; nine0010
• Avoid smells and foods that cause nausea;
• Eat something right after waking up. A toast or a slice of bread will help reduce nausea;
• Avoid hunger - empty stomach increases nausea. Eat small meals often, prefer low-fat, high-carbohydrate foods;
• Try ginger - studies show it helps with nausea;
• Sip as often as possible and prefer still water. nine0010

In rare cases, pregnant women may develop hyperemesis gestationis or excessive vomiting. This is a serious condition that can lead to dehydration, kidney damage, seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, and even death.

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine, infrequent urination and/or dizziness.

Symptoms of excessive pregnancy vomiting:

• frequent nausea for a long time and regular vomiting after meals;
• dry skin and lips;
• sudden weight loss;
• low blood pressure (below 90/60).

If symptoms of excessive pregnancy vomiting occur, do not wait until the condition resolves on its own. It is necessary to seek medical help as soon as possible - the doctor will prescribe treatment, help adjust the diet and lifestyle of the expectant mother.

0.5–2%

pregnant women experience excessive vomiting

Diarrhea in pregnancy

The word "diarrhea" comes from the Greek language and literally means "to flow through". This is a condition during which bowel movements or bowel movements occur three times a day or more often. This phenomenon is especially typical for the third trimester of pregnancy, but it can also occur earlier.

Symptoms of diarrhea:

• Three or more bowel movements per day
• Urgent urge to have a bowel movement
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Bloating

Causes of diarrhea during pregnancy poisoning, dysbacteriosis, bacterial and viral infections: