Irritable bowel syndrome affects millions of people. Two thirds of the people with IBS are women. Since so many women are affected by IBS, it is obvious that it will be a problem for some pregnant women.
Pregnancy has an affect on irritable bowel syndrome, but this varies from woman to woman. The same woman can have two completely different experiences from one pregnancy to the next. In some cases, the symptoms of IBS disappear during pregnancy. For other women, the symptoms get worse.
In some cases, irritable bowel syndrome can develop for the first time during pregnancy. In most cases, the IBS is a problem before pregnancy. However, a smaller percentage of women experience symptoms for the first time during pregnancy. If you experience the symptoms of IBS, tell your health care provider.
Pregnant women with irritable bowel syndrome often experience bouts of constipation. This is a common discomfort for all pregnant women, but tends to be more severe in women with IBS. Constipation is made worse by the baby pressing on the bowels, diet and iron supplements.
In some cases, food intolerances go hand in hand with IBS. Wheat is a common sensitivity in people with irritable bowel syndrome. Dairy is another culprit for some people. If you know you have food sensitivities, be particularly careful about your diet during pregnancy to avoid flare ups. For example, women with a wheat sensitivity shouldn’t add too much bran to their diets to combat constipation. It will just trigger a flare up of IBS.
If you suspect you have food intolerances, speak to your health care provider. Keeping a food diary is a good way to track your diet and your IBS flare ups. Sometimes you will notice a pattern. Your doctor may be able to offer some help or refer you to a nutritionist.
If you are on medication for IBS, speak to your doctor. Some medications are safe for pregnancy and others are not. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and current treatment to determine if changes need to be made. Some women find that using natural remedies such as high fiber diet, drinking water and getting regular exercise helps control symptoms.
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