Is Diarrhoea a Sign of Pregnancy?
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Pregnancy symptoms are varied, confusing, and not in the least pleasant. From morning sickness and acid reflux to swollen ankles and a sore back, you can imagine the discomfort a pregnant woman is in for. One of these symptoms is diarrhoea. Many pregnant women experience loose stools, especially in early pregnancy as the baby begins growing rapidly. This then poses the question, is diarrhoea a sign of pregnancy? Before a missed period, a bout of diarrhoea can make this seem likely. But, let’s explore if it holds true otherwise.
Can Diarrhoea be a Sign of Pregnancy?
It is true that some women experience diarrhoea in early pregnancy, but this isn’t a good indicator of pregnancy. You can be sure of being pregnant only by taking a valid pregnancy test.
This is because diarrhoea may be caused due to various reasons, many of which have nothing to do with you being pregnant. You may have changed your diet which upset your digestive system or may have a caught an infection in your intestine. Indigestion, digestive disorders and urogenital disorders may also be a reason for severe loose stools.
Should You Worry?
The onset of diarrhoea after a missed period does not need to be a reason for worry. As mentioned, pregnant women may experience diarrhoea, but it is not a sure indicator of pregnancy. If you notice that your diarrhoea symptoms are not long term, you have nothing to worry about. However, if you face any other symptoms like blood in the stool, a high temperature and nausea, along with diarrhoea, it is best to consult a doctor to rule out any serious concerns.
Effective Measures to Stop Diarrhoea
There is no major concern if you have diarrhoea unless it is accompanied by symptoms mentioned above. However, this does not stop one from feeling intensely uncomfortable and annoying. While it will reduce on its own, it is better to do something from your end to expedite the process. Here are some things that you can do to get your diarrhoea under control.
- Avoid eating liquid food. Don’t pick up a bowl of soup for a meal if you experience loose stools. It can worsen the bowel movements.
- Water, however, is good. It will keep you from getting dehydrated.
- Don’t eat spicy or excessively salty food.
- Eat foods like yoghurt, cottage cheese, etc that are rich in probiotics. This will help promote good bacteria in your intestine and normalize your gastrointestinal system.
- Eat low-fiber foods like rice, banana, oatmeal, etc that will help firm up the stool.
- Over the counter medicines like Pepto Bismal and Imodium. It is best to seek a doctor’s consent before you consume these.
- Alternately, you can try home remedies like chamomile tea, orange peel tea, fenugreek seeds (powder the seeds, mix them in water and drink), etc to treat diarrhoea.
Diarrhoea, although not a definitive sign of pregnancy, can be a hassle to deal with. If you experience it, do not assume it to be a sign. Instead, take a pregnancy test and confirm. You can then take measures to get much-needed relief from diarrhoea.
Also Read:
Unique Signs & Symptoms of Pregnancy
Pregnancy Symptoms after Missed Period
Early Pregnancy Symptoms before Missed Period
