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. Many people also wonder, can diarrhea be a symptom of pregnancy, and it’s something that can happen for a variety of reasons. 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. Pregnancy diarrhea 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

Diarrhea During Early Pregnancy (First Trimester)

Diarrhea during early pregnancy is common and usually short-lived. Many women notice loose stools in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as their body adjusts to hormonal and digestive changes. Most cases resolve on their own without treatment.

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.

Can Diarrhea Be a Symptom of Pregnancy?

Diarrhea by itself is not a definitive sign of pregnancy, but many women may experience diarrhea and pregnancy symptoms, especially in the first trimester. Pregnancy symptoms are often similar for most women, including missed periods, nausea, and food cravings. However, every individual is different, and symptoms can vary. For some, diarrhea may indeed be a sign of pregnancy, but it can also be related to other digestive health issues.

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. It’s important to remember that diarrhea during pregnancy or pregnant diarrhea can occur at any stage, not just in the early weeks, and is usually a normal part of your body adapting to hormonal and digestive changes.

• 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.

Diarrhea by Pregnancy Week

5–6 Weeks Pregnant and Diarrhea

Some women notice 5 weeks pregnant diarrhea as one of the early digestive changes. By 6 weeks pregnant and diarrhea, mild digestive discomfort may continue due to hormonal shifts in early pregnancy.

32 Weeks Pregnant and Diarrhea

At this stage, diarrhea 32 weeks pregnant can happen as your body adapts to the growing baby and changes in diet or activity.

35–38 Weeks Pregnant Diarrhea

In late pregnancy, 35 weeks diarrhea or 38 weeks pregnant diarrhea is sometimes experienced as your digestive system responds to hormones and preparation for labour.

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

Diarrhea during pregnancy 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
• Watery diarrhea during pregnancy

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 pregnancy diarrhea 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. Using it may also help those experiencing pregnancy diarrhea feel more comfortable.

Diarrhea vs Morning Sickness

Many women in early pregnancy experience an upset stomach, but the symptoms can vary. While morning sickness usually causes nausea and vomiting, some women also experience diarrhea morning sickness, where digestive discomfort appears alongside or instead of typical nausea. Recognizing the difference can help you manage symptoms and decide when to contact your healthcare provider. If you are pregnant and have an upset stomach, keeping track of your symptoms can make it easier to discuss them with your doctor or midwife.

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.

FAQ

Can diarrhea be an early sign of pregnancy?

Diarrhea alone is not a definitive sign, but some women may notice digestive changes like diarrhea in the first trimester.

Is diarrhea normal at 5 weeks pregnant?

Mild diarrhea can occur early in pregnancy due to hormonal and digestive changes and is usually temporary.

Does diarrhea mean labour is near?

Late in pregnancy, diarrhea can sometimes happen as the body prepares for labour, but it is not a guaranteed sign.

What helps diarrhea during pregnancy?

Staying hydrated, eating light bland meals, and tracking your symptoms can help. If needed, consult your healthcare provider for advice.