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what can i take for diarrhea while pregnant

by Ms. Chanelle Kulas Jr. Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Imodium is an effective OTC medication for treating short-term diarrhea. However, the ACG do not recommend taking the antidiarrheal medications diphenoxylate-atropine (Lomotil) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) during pregnancy.Apr 11, 2019

Verywellhealth.com

1. Drink plenty of fluids...drink plenty of water, clear juices, clear broths, or an electrolyte-rich sports drink...

2. Eat a brat diet...it is comprised of four bland, low-fiber foods that will help to firm up stools: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast...

3. Use probiotics...probiotics are live bacteria and yeast...

Learn More...

Healthline.com

1. Hydration...small amounts of hydration solutions should be given frequently...

2. Probiotics...sources of good bacteria that work in your intestinal tract to create a healthy gut environment...

3. Foods to eat...stick to low-fiber brat foods that will help firm up your stool...

4. Over-the-counter drugs...

Learn More...

Medicalnewstoday.com

1. Rehydrating...consuming sugar and salt with water helps the intestines to absorb fluids more efficiently...

2. Eating a recovery diet...a diet of small, frequent meals can be better than eating three larger meals a day...

3. Avoiding certain foods...

4. Taking probiotics...

5. Trying medicines...

Learn More...

How to get rid of diarrhea fast while pregnant?

Natural Remedies for Diarrhea in Pregnancy

  • HYDRATE! Your body is losing more fluid than you’re taking in. ...
  • Boost your electrolytes. ...
  • Drink bone broth. ...
  • Avoid high-fat, fried, spicy, and high-fiber foods. ...
  • Take probiotics. ...
  • Eat the BRATT diet. ...
  • Go easy on raw, fibrous foods. ...
  • Take flaxseed oil. ...
  • Take digestive enzymes. ...
  • Take glutamine powder. ...

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What to do when you're suffering from pregnancy diarrhea?

Method 1 of 3: Adjusting Diet

  1. Follow the BRAT (Banana, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) diet. The BRAT diet is great for pregnant women who are suffering from diarrhea as the foods it contains are low in ...
  2. Eat plenty of soups and broths. Clear soups and broths contain no solid particles so they require little to no digestion.
  3. Avoid spicy and high-fat foods, as these are harder to digest. ...

More items...

What should I avoid eating while pregnant?

Here is an indepth article by food safety on pregnant women.

  • Fish with a high level of mercury in it. Some of the fishes like mackerel, sharks and even swordfish have high levels of mercury in them. ...
  • Unpasteurised Dairy and Unpasteurised dairy and juice might contain a bacteria called Listeria. ...
  • Raw eggs. Pregnant ladies should avoid eating any food that might contain raw eggs. ...
  • Soft cheese. ...
  • Deli salads and meat. ...

What fever reducer can I take while pregnant?

Treatments

  • Antibiotics. If the cause of the fever is a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. ...
  • Antiviral medications. If a pregnant woman notices any symptoms of the flu, they should see a doctor as soon as possible. ...
  • Over-the-counter medication. Women should not take ibuprofen during pregnancy. ...

Can diarrhea during pregnancy hurt the baby?

Although it doesn't cause miscarriage, diarrhea can affect a pregnancy. An occasional loose stool can be normal, but if you have any of the following, call your doctor: Diarrhea for more than 3 days. Fever of 100.4 F or higher.

What can I take to settle my stomach while pregnant?

Every few hours, eat small meals or snacks that are easy to get down, like a handful of nuts or a few crackers. Speaking of crackers — bland, starchy foods can help soak up gastric acid and settle the stomach, so keep some on hand.

Can diarrhea cause miscarriage?

Diarrhea and Miscarriage If you get diarrhea, you may worry that it could cause a problem with your pregnancy or that it's a sign of miscarriage. But diarrhea isn't a typical cause or symptom of miscarriage.

Can I take Pepto-Bismol while pregnant?

The active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate. According to a 2014 review in American Family Physician, you should avoid taking Pepto-Bismol during the second and third trimesters of your pregnancy. This is because it raises your risk of bleeding problems when you take it closer to delivery.

What can I take instead of Pepto-Bismol while pregnant?

Alternatives to Pepto-Bismol during pregnancy Certain medications may be safe to use while pregnant, as long as a person does so under a doctor's care and instructions. Medicines that may be safe can include specific antacids, acid reducers, and proton-pump inhibitors.

When should I be worried about diarrhea during pregnancy?

When to call your doctor. Remember, while a mild case of diarrhea isn't anything to really worry about during pregnancy, there are a few times you should get in touch with your practitioner right away, including if you: Have more than three stools a day. Have diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours, despite dietary changes.

What does constant diarrhea mean when pregnant?

These could be foods you have eaten often before, but eating them while pregnant can give you an upset stomach or diarrhea. Another cause of diarrhea during pregnancy is hormonal changes. Sometimes hormones can cause your digestive process to slow down, and at times that can lead to diarrhea.

Is it normal to have lots of diarrhea during first trimester?

Although diarrhea isn't a sign of early pregnancy, it's possible that you may experience diarrhea or other digestive issues in your first trimester. Early on in your pregnancy, your body starts going through lots of changes, and these can affect your bowel movements, leading to either hard or loose stools.

What to do if you are dehydrated from vomiting?

He may choose to rehydrate you with an intravenous solution in the doctor’s office or emergency room.

Is imodium A-D good for diarrhea?

Therefore, we have put these two medications in the “yellow light” or caution category. If your doctor feels that it would be better in your situation to slow down diarrhea, Imodium A-D may be the best choice.

Can you take antidiarrhea while pregnant?

Pregnancy diarrhea can be uncom fortable, however, no antidiarrhea medications (even those obtained over-the-counter) should be taken without your doctor’s advice. Increased intestinal motility and consequent diarrhea is the body’s natural way of getting rid of harmful bacteria/toxins.

Is kaolin safe to take during pregnancy?

The combination of kaolin and pectin (Kaopectate), even though it is safe to take during pregnancy, is not very helpful. Imodium A-D is a more effective pregnancy diarrhea medication and is reported to be safe to take during pregnancy.

What Causes Pregnancy Diarrhea

Pregnancy diarrhea could be triggered by hormonal shifts, new food sensitivities, and changes in diet. Generally, though, its brought on by gastrointestinal bacteria that you either picked up from someone else or contracted by eating spoiled food. Other symptoms of gastrointestinal infections include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fever, and chills.

Treating Diarrhea And Preventing Dehydration

To treat diarrhea, your healthcare provider may recommend a safe over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication. Your provider may also recommend other steps, such as getting intravenous fluids to help replenish any fluid loss.

Diarrhea During Third Trimester

Diarrhea during third trimester is very common during pregnancy. It may occur right before your labor or a few weeks before labor. Diarrhea may be a sign that the labor is near. However, you should not expect premature birth if you experience diarrhea a few weeks before the due date.

Is It Safe To Use Pepto

There is very little research into the effects of Pepto-Bismol on breastmilk or breastfed infants.

Diarrhea In Early Pregnancy

Although diarrhea isnât a , it’s possible that you may experience diarrhea or other digestive issues in your first trimester.

When Can I Take Medicine During Pregnancy

If youre newly pregnant , you may want to rethink taking unnecessary over-the-counter drugs. The first 12 weeks of your pregnancy are a critical time for your baby in terms of organ development. Many doctors recommend avoiding all over-the-counter drugs during this time.

Are Medicines I Can Buy Without A Prescription Safe To Take In Pregnancy

Check with the pharmacist or your health care provider before you take any medicines during pregnancy, even ones you can buy without a prescription. The next page of this handout lists the most common over-the-counter medicines that are safe to use during pregnancy.

How to avoid diarrhea while pregnant?

Here are ways to help avoid diarrhea during pregnancy while traveling: Avoid tap water in high-risk areas – Don’t drink it, brush your teeth with it or use ice cubes made from it. Stay away from street vendors . Avoid fruits that can’t be peeled or that you didn’t peel yourself. Avoid areas with inadequate sanitation.

What does it mean when you have diarrhea during pregnancy?

Diarrhea during pregnancy is one of the unfortunate discomforts that may be experienced. Diarrhea literally means “flowing through” and is defined as having three or more loose or liquid bowel movements in a 24 hour period. If you are experiencing three runny, watery bowel movements in one day, the main concern is to stay hydrated.

How to rehydrate yourself after diarrhea?

The main concern of diarrhea is staying hydrated. Make sure you drink plenty of water, juice, and broth to rehydrate yourself and replace the electrolytes your body has lost. The water will help replenish your lost fluids, the juice will help replenish your potassium levels and the broth will help replenish your sodium.

What to do if your diarrhea doesn't clear up?

If your diarrhea doesn’t clear up on its own you may need to consult your health-care provider. If diarrhea during your pregnancy is caused by bacteria or parasites, you may need antibiotics. If a virus is causing your diarrhea, antibiotics will not help.

Can you get diarrhea while traveling?

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common illness that affects travelers each year. The onset of traveler’s diarrhea usually happens within a week of travel but could start at any time while traveling. It is important to know the area of your destination.

Can you lose fluids while pregnant?

You will need to make sure you are re-hydrating yourself. Diarrhea is rarely life-threatening, but it shouldn’t be taken too lightly, especially while pregnant.

Can you have diarrhea during the third trimester?

If you are experiencing diarrhea during your third trimester, it does not mean your baby is coming right now, so you should not be alarmed. This is just a way some women’s bodies prepare for the labor that is going to start at some point. You may want to be aware of other labor signs as well.

What to do if you have diarrhea?

If you have diarrhea: Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to replace those you are losing. Avoid drinking dairy products, soda, and juices, which may make the diarrhea worse. If the diarrhea continues for a few hours, drink fluids and liquid foods containing salt, such as broth or sports drinks.

How long does diarrhea last?

Call your practitioner if you have accompanying symptoms, if your diarrhea lasts longer than a couple of days, or if you think you might have food poisoning (which can be serious during pregnancy).

What are the signs of preterm labor?

Contact your provider right away if you have diarrhea and also feel your baby moving less often or vigorously than usual or have signs of preterm labor such as: Regular or frequent contractions. More vaginal discharge, or discharge that's watery, bloody, or mucus-like. Cramps.

Is diarrhea a cause for alarm during pregnancy?

Medically reviewed by Layan Alrahmani, M.D., ob-gyn. |. October 5, 2020. Diarrhea during pregnancy isn't usually cause for alarm. Culprits might include a stomach virus, medication, or something you ate. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and talk with your healthcare practitioner before taking any antidiarrheal medications.

Can food poisoning cause diarrhea?

Having food poisoning during pregnancy can be serious. Listeriosis, for example, can cause serious complications for your baby. Also call if you have diarrhea and any of these symptoms: Stomach pain. Fever. Explosive diarrhea. Diarrhea with blood or mucus. Frequent vomiting.

Can you take stool softener while pregnant?

Medications. Stool softeners are commonly prescribed to pregnant women, and some women are more sensitive to them than others.

Can you take antidiarrhea medication if you have a fever?

On the other hand, if your diarrhea is serious, she may recommend you take one to avoid dehydration. Antidiarrhea medications shouldn't be taken if you have any signs of a bacterial infection, though, such as a fever or blood in your stool.

What to do if you have traveler's diarrhea?

If you do get traveler’s diarrhea, drink plenty of fluids to keep from getting dehydrated. Avoid dairy products and caffeinated drinks, which might make diarrhea worse. To be on the safe side, you may want to see a healthcare provider just in case you need antidiarrheal medication or some other treatment.

What are the symptoms of diarrhea?

The most common symptoms indicating diarrhea or related to diarrhea include. loose and watery stools. an urgent need for a bowel movement. abdominal pain or cramping. feeling gassy or bloated. nausea. having blood in your stool. fever.

How long does diarrhea last?

Contact your healthcare provider if your diarrhea lasts for more than two days. He might prescribe an anti-diarrheal medication. If you think your diarrhea may be a sign of preterm labor or if you’re at all concerned about how you’re feeling, contact your provider immediately.

How to lower your risk of food poisoning?

You can try to lower your risk of food poisoning by avoiding certain foods that put you at risk. For example, stay away from deli meats, unpasteurized milk and cheese, undercooked seafood, and raw eggs. Be extra careful about how the food you eat is prepared.

Is diarrhea a sign of pregnancy?

Diarrhea is not a topic that’s fun to talk about, but it’s nothing to be embarrassed about either. Everyone gets diarrhea from time to time, and many expectant moms may experience diarrhea during pregnancy. Although diarrhea may be a sign ...

Can pregnancy cause constipation?

For example, as levels of the hormone progesterone increase, this can cause your digestive system to slow down, often leading to constipation. Changes to your diet and nutrition as part of your pregnancy may result in changes in your bowels, too.

Does drinking water help with constipation?

For some people, consuming more fiber-rich foods — such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains — can help with constipation, but for others such a sudden change in diet can cause gas, cramping, and even diarrhea. Drinking more water can help with constipation, and can help replenish the fluids lost by having diarrhea.

How to get rid of diarrhea while pregnant?

Diarrhea can cause you to lose a lot of fluid, which is never a good thing if you’re pregnant. Keep a water bottle or a glass of water nearby at all times. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day to replenish the fluids you’re losing.

How to get stool to be normal while pregnant?

COMING SOON. 1. Wait until your stool returns to normal consistency. Constipation is pretty common during pregnancy, and your doctor may recommend that you start taking stool softeners to help relieve your symptoms. But if you have diarrhea, the stool softener can actually make your symptoms worse.

How to make electrolyte replacement drink?

To make your own, combine 16 fluid ounces (470 mL) of cold water with 3 tablespoons (44 mL) of maple syrup and 1 tsp (5 g) of coarse sea salt. Add a little lemon juice to give it some zest and improve the taste. Method 2.

Does drinking juice help with potassium?

This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>n</p><p><br />n</p></div>"}. 1. Drinking juice is a simple way to boost your potassium levels. Diarrhea can strip you of important electrolytes like potassium.

Can prenatal vitamins cause diarrhea?

1. It could cause diarrhea or make your symptoms worse. If you’re taking prenatal vitamins as recommended by your doctor, stick to a consistent schedule and try not to suddenly stop taking them or doubling up if you miss a day. Additionally, try your best to stick to a consistent, healthy diet.

Is it safe to take over the counter diarrhea pills while pregnant?

Diarrhea is a super common and usually harmless condition. But if you’re pregnant, some prescription and over-the-counter diarrhea medications may not be safe for you and your baby. Don’t worry. There are actually plenty of ways you can naturally treat your diarrhea.

What to do if you have diarrhea?

If you have diarrhea (loose stools three or more times in one day), be sure to drink plenty of fluids to replace those you are losing. But avoid drinking dairy products, soda, and juices, which may make the diarrhea worse.

Is it safe to take anti-diarrhea pills while pregnant?

There's not enough data to completely rule out risk for most drugs in pregnancy (for safety reasons, few studies test drugs in human pregnancies), but I would rate anti-diarrhea drugs as low-risk. It's always a good idea to call your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medicine, to make sure it's safe for you and your baby.

Can you get dehydrated and put your baby at risk?

If you get really dehydrated, your blood won't be able to circulate as well to your organs or your placenta, and you'll need to be hospitalized and given intravenous fluids.

What medications should pregnant women avoid?

Pregnant women should avoid the following medications: ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Bactrim (an antibiotic), aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and codeine. When choosing medications, avoid all-in-one medications such as cold medicine that treats nasal congestion, fever, and aches and pains with one dose.

What to do if you have a fever while taking over the counter medication?

If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking an over-the-counter medication, contact your doctor immediately. You should also contact your doctor if you think you have the flu or experience dizziness, vaginal bleeding, severe vomiting, high fever, reduced fetal movement, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.

Is it safe to take over the counter medication while pregnant?

Although many medications are thought to be safe during pregnancy, it ’s important to discuss any medications you’re taking with your doctor . That’s especially true if you have a high-risk pregnancy. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking an over-the-counter medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Can you take OTC while pregnant?

OTC medicines that are okay during pregnancy. Every woman experiences pregnancy differently. You might have morning sickness for months, while your best friend feels great. One universal, however, is that pregnant women can still get sick — and they experience more aches and pains than normal.

Is it safe to take over the counter medications during the second trimester?

Doing so can help to avoid birth defects and other serious problems that could arise from potentially harmful medications. Most doctors agree that it’s safer to take over-the-counter medications during the second trimester.

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