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Constipation and diarrhea in pregnancy

E S Bonapace¹, R S Fisher

¹Department of Medicine, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

Gastroenterology Clinics of North America

|April 18, 1998

Summary

Pregnancy commonly causes constipation due to hormonal shifts affecting gut motility. Diarrhea during pregnancy often stems from causes similar to those in non-pregnant individuals. This review covers their occurrence, causes, and management.

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Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Obstetrics & Gynecology

Background:

Constipation and diarrhea affect up to one-third of pregnant women.
Pregnancy-related constipation is frequently due to hormonal influences on gastrointestinal motility.
Diarrhea in pregnancy often arises from conditions also seen in non-pregnant individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the incidence, pathophysiology, evaluation, and treatment of constipation and diarrhea during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

Literature review of studies on gastrointestinal disturbances in pregnancy.
Analysis of physiological changes impacting gut function during gestation.
Synthesis of current evidence on diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

Hormonal changes are a primary driver of constipation in pregnancy.
Diarrhea etiology in pregnant patients often mirrors that of the general population.
Effective management strategies exist for both conditions during pregnancy.

Conclusions:

Constipation and diarrhea are prevalent and manageable gastrointestinal issues in pregnancy.
Understanding the distinct causes of constipation and diarrhea is key for appropriate treatment.
This review provides a comprehensive overview for clinicians managing these common pregnancy complications.

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