Pregnancy is a time of intense physical and emotional changes for the mother-to-be. The third trimester of pregnancy is a period of rapid growth and development for the fetus, and the mother’s body is adjusting to its new role as nurturer and protector. Unfortunately, many pregnant women experience digestive issues during the third trimester including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and an upset stomach. While some of these symptoms can be unavoidable, there are a number of lifestyle changes and treatments that can help alleviate the discomfort associated with an upset stomach during the third trimester. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes and risk factors for an upset stomach during the third trimester of pregnancy, as well as strategies for prevention and treatment.
When is it serious?The majority of pregnancy-related diarrhea cases are harmless and go away in a few days. But if you discover that you’ve been glued to the toilet for more than two days, or if blood, pus, or a fever are present, it’s time to call your doctor. You should also visit a doctor if you think you may have food poisoning because listeriosis, an infection brought on by consuming listeria-contaminated food, can cross the placenta and endanger your unborn child.
The release of the chemical prostaglandin, which makes your uterus contract and is also the reason you might find yourself using the restroom more frequently during your period, means that diarrhea will frequently appear in the third trimester. According to Wong, some women experience a severe case of the runs just before giving birth, and that is completely normal, albeit unpleasant.
Since dehydration can both cause and exacerbate certain symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, swelling, dizziness, and even preterm labor, hydration is extremely important during pregnancy as well. Try to keep a bottle of water or a sports drink close by even if you have severe diarrhea.
What you can do about it The good news is that there are techniques for slowing down situations where things are moving a little too, um, quickly. Treating diarrhea during pregnancy the same way you would treat it outside of pregnancy is the best course of action: removing potential triggers (if you believe your vitamin or other medications are to blame, think about switching them out) and problematic foods, “including dairy products, and anything with an abundance of sugar or caffeine, such as juices and carbonated drinks,” advises Wong. Instead, eat a lot of foods that are known to be easy on your stomach, such as crackers and toast, applesauce, bananas, soups, vegetables like green beans, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
Although constipation is a more well-known side effect of pregnancy, diarrhea affects one-third of pregnant women.
Ways To Prevent Nausea In The Third Trimester
The following measures can help in preventing nausea (6).
Get in touch with your healthcare provider if your nausea and vomiting are too bad. If necessary, they may recommend the right medications to make you feel better.
Signs You Need To See A Doctor
Even though morning sickness and vomiting during pregnancy are not always a sign of a problem, you should visit your doctor if any of the following apply.
Related:
1. Can I take medication for nausea in the third trimester?.
According to the US Food and Drug Association (FDA), a combination of doxylamine succinate and pyridoxine hydrochloride tablet (trade name Diclegis) can manage nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (7)
Some antihistamines, ondansetron, phenothiazines, metoclopramide, and corticosteroids can also treat nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (1). However, do not use any medicine without your doctor’s consent.
2. Can third-trimester nausea be a sign of labor?
While nausea is not a conclusive sign of labor, sudden and persistent nausea in the third trimester can indicate premature labor (8).
3. Is nausea in the third trimester normal?
Nausea in the third trimester is not common. However, there is not always an underlying pathology to explain why it occurs. Although nausea during the third trimester does not indicate any harm to the mother or fetus, talking to professionals is still important because they can better manage the condition.
4. Does third-trimester morning sickness have an impact on the baby?
Vomiting or nausea do not directly affect the infant but can be uncomfortable for the mother. Infant and mother may not be affected by mild vomiting. But frequent vomiting can cause dehydration, and the baby can suffer from dehydration.
5. How long can I go without food while I’m pregnant to prevent motion sickness?
Nausea may occur or worsen if you go too long without eating during pregnancy. It is recommended to eat every two hours if you experience nausea during pregnancy. Avoid consuming high-fat or greasy foods that are difficult to digest (9).
6. What drinks help with pregnancy nausea?
Some women may find relief in drinking carbonated beverages such as sodas, milk, or tea. Drinking peppermint or spearmint tea can also help reduce nausea and vomiting in some women. Chamomile and ginger tea can also help relieve nausea (9).
During the first few weeks of pregnancy, nausea is frequently experienced. But nausea during the third trimester is a rare symptom that needs to be reported right away to the doctor. Leaving third-trimester nausea untreated could result in dehydration and raise the risk of complications for both the mother and the unborn child. The administration of intravenous fluids and hospitalization may be necessary for the treatment of such severe nausea cases To prevent the symptoms of nausea, it is advised that pregnant women stay hydrated, stay away from spicy and fatty foods, and get enough rest and sleep.
FAQ
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