Diarrhea in Early Pregnancy: What’s Normal and What’s Not

The pregnancy symptom that no one talks about. It’s nothing to feel embarrassed about, and although diarrhea in early pregnancy may be awkward to talk about, it’s better shared than not. And just as a heads up for any first-time parents, you will find yourselves comfortably talking about poo over coffee with other parents in less than a year’s time. Poo doesn’t have to be taboo!

Here’s why it’s important to speak up about diarrhea in early pregnancy, and we’ll talk you through some tips to manage your symptoms should you need help from your healthcare provider.

• Why Do Expectant Mums Experience Diarrhea in Early Pregnancy?
• What’s Normal? Signs It’s Just Your Body Adjusting
• What’s Not Normal? Signs You Should Check In With Your Midwife
• How to Manage Diarrhea in Early Pregnancy at Home

Why Do Expectant Mums Experience Diarrhea in Early Pregnancy?

Diarrhea in early pregnancy can be a reaction to changes that are happening in the body. It’s possible to get diarrhea in pregnancy because your body is going through lots of changes very rapidly. Although it’s not a guaranteed symptom of early pregnancy, it’s a harmless one and is often temporary.

Some of the most common reasons why women experience diarrhea in early pregnancy are:

Hormonal changes

During pregnancy, there are two main hormones that will have an effect on your digestive system because they increase significantly through each trimester.

• Estrogen: affects the production of bile, which breaks down fats in your diet
• Progesterone: slows down the movement of food through the intestine
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): slows down the movement of food and can affect the upper gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to vomiting (morning sickness)

As these hormones increase gradually throughout your pregnancy, the knock-on effect can lead to diarrhea in pregnancy because your food has a longer time to soften, and you become more sensitive to certain foods.

Increased gut sensitivity

Our senses are heightened during pregnancy, and it’s common to develop aversions to certain tastes and smells. Just like you experience a change in your taste buds, your body is experiencing a change in how it digests certain foods. This can vary from woman to woman and is also linked to the changes we make in our diet to benefit our bodies and the growing baby.

Immune system shifts

When you fall pregnant, your immune system switches gear and prevents the body from rejecting the fetus. The digestive system plays a huge role in this process as it influences the immune system and increases nutrient absorption for mum and baby. The changes in a mother’s immune system also mean they have different reactions to infection, and one of these symptoms can be diarrhea.

Diet

The first thing we want to know is what we can and can’t eat as a result of being pregnant. A sudden change to anyone’s diet will cause changes to bowel movements, including the onset of diarrhea. Some of the changes healthcare professionals recommend are a diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and high-fiber foods, which will naturally soften stools.

Prenatal vitamins

Although prenatal vitamins are aimed at bridging the gaps in your nutrition throughout your pregnancy, they can sometimes trigger diarrhea in early pregnancy. If you have concerns about your prenatal vitamin, consult your healthcare provider, and they may recommend using a different brand.

What’s Normal? Signs It’s Just Your Body Adjusting

Diarrhea in early pregnancy is a common symptom and usually passes within a couple of days. Understanding the signs of diarrhea can help you recognise what is considered “normal” and when you might need to seek medical help.

• Loose stools for 1 to 2 days without other symptoms
• Mild stomach cramping that passes quickly
• Changes in digestion after starting prenatal vitamins
• Feeling “off” in your tummy but still able to eat, drink, and rest
• Feeling bloated regardless of whether you have had food or drink

Most of the time, diarrhea resolves on its own, and your body adapts to the changes you’re going through. It’s also common to experience diarrhea later in pregnancy, the closer you get to your due date, and it can be a sign that your body is preparing for labour.

What’s Not Normal? Signs You Should Check In with Your Midwife

Diarrhea is a common symptom and often harmless. However, if you have concerns, don’t push them aside. Seek advice from your doctor because there are occasions when diarrhea is more severe, such as:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
• Diarrhea in early pregnancy seems to be getting worse rather than getting better
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, fatigue, dizziness, dark urine, less frequent urination)
• Fever, vomiting, or blood in stool
• Severe cramping or pain that doesn’t ease with rest

Be assured that treatment for diarrhea can be controlled through oral medicines or a change in your diet most of the time. It rarely requires any intrusive examination. It’s better to get peace of mind and be checked over than feel uncomfortable and not quite know what you’re dealing with.

How to Manage Diarrhea in Early Pregnancy at Home

Treating diarrhea during pregnancy can be as simple as changing your diet for a couple of days or tracking your symptoms if you feel it has lasted longer than usual. We suggest trying the following simple steps to help you feel more comfortable. If you have any concerns like the ones mentioned before, it’s best to seek advice from your midwife.

• Prioritise fluids with electrolytes (like diluted juice or oral rehydration)
• Eat light, bland meals (bananas, toast, rice)
• Avoid caffeine, rich or spicy food
• Rest and stay near a toilet - no shame!
• Track symptoms so you can mention them at your next appointment

And, you could try wearing a pregnancy support band to alleviate the pressure around your core when you’re feeling uncomfortable. Wearing a soft, breathable support band can make a big difference. Especially in early pregnancy when your core is adjusting to rapid changes.

The Lola&Lykke Pregnancy Support Band is gentle enough for daily use and designed to grow with your bump.

The Bottom Line

Your body is going through huge changes that you shouldn’t underestimate. Diarrhea in early pregnancy can feel uncomfortable and annoying, but it’s a common symptom that often passes quickly.

Trust your instincts, listen to your body, and take comfort that help is available should you need extra support along the way. Be sure to explore the Pregnancy Support Belt for an added touch of comfort when your belly feels heavy and sensitive. Designed by mums and midwives to help you feel held, not squeezed.