How to Stop Loose Motions During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of many changes, both physically and emotionally. Unfortunately, one of the more uncomfortable changes that can occur during pregnancy is loose motions, also known as diarrhea. Loose motions can be painful, embarrassing, and can even be dangerous if left untreated. Even more concerning is the fact that blood in motion during pregnancy can be a sign of serious medical complications. Thankfully, there are ways to help reduce the severity and frequency of loose motions during pregnancy. In this blog post, we'll discuss how to stop loose motions during pregnancy and what you can do to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

When you are pregnant, it’s important to stay hydrated to ensure that your body is functioning correctly and your baby is healthy. Staying hydrated can also help you keep loose motions at bay. Make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, soups and diluted juice, throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages, as they can aggravate the situation. If you are feeling nauseous, try sucking on an ice cube or a Popsicle.

Eat Bland Foods

Eating bland foods is one of the most effective ways to stop loose motions during pregnancy. Bland foods are those that are easy to digest and do not aggravate the digestive system. Examples of these include plain crackers, plain pasta, boiled potatoes, plain toast, applesauce, plain oatmeal, boiled chicken, and plain rice. The goal is to stick with foods that are low in fiber and fat but high in nutrients. Avoiding spicy, fried, and processed foods is also key for reducing loose motions during pregnancy. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help ease digestion and keep your stomach feeling settled.

Avoid Dairy and Fatty Foods

Dairy and fatty foods should be avoided when you’re suffering from loose motions during pregnancy. Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream can cause further irritation to the digestive system, resulting in more frequent and intense episodes of diarrhea. Additionally, high-fat foods can be difficult for your stomach to digest, leading to further discomfort. 

To minimize any effects, opt for low-fat and fat-free dairy products. If your body is particularly sensitive to dairy, try avoiding it altogether and opting for nondairy alternatives instead. Also, steer clear of greasy and fried foods that are high in fat, such as burgers and fries. Instead, reach for lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish and plenty of vegetables. 

If you’re feeling the urge to snack between meals, opt for whole grains, fruits, and vegetables instead of chips, chocolate bars, and other fatty snacks.

Eat Small, Frequent Meals

Eating small meals throughout the day is one of the best ways to prevent loose motions during pregnancy. Eating smaller meals will help keep your blood sugar levels more stable, which can prevent the onset of loose motions. Avoid large meals as they can overwhelm your digestive system and cause an upset stomach. Instead, opt for six small meals throughout the day consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. This type of diet will provide you with the essential nutrients you need without overwhelming your stomach. Eating smaller meals throughout the day will also help ensure that you are getting enough calories and nutrients to fuel your pregnancy and keep you and your baby healthy.

Try Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria found in certain foods and supplements. They may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and prevent infections, making them an effective remedy for loose motions during pregnancy. Probiotics can be taken in capsule form, added to food and beverages, or purchased in supplement form.

When looking for probiotics, choose products with strains of bacteria that have been studied for their safety during pregnancy. These include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species.

In addition to taking probiotics in supplement form, you can also get probiotics through the foods you eat. Fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, and kombucha are all sources of beneficial bacteria. Eating a variety of these foods regularly may help improve digestive health and reduce the frequency of motions.

If you decide to take probiotics as a supplement, talk to your healthcare provider before taking them. The safety and effectiveness of probiotics vary depending on the type and strain used. Your healthcare provider can recommend the best option for you.

Get Plenty of Rest

Getting enough rest is essential during pregnancy and can help with loose motions. When your body is tired, it is more prone to illness and discomfort, which can make loose motions worse. Make sure you get plenty of rest each day to give your body the energy it needs to stay healthy. Try to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, and take naps during the day if you can. Avoid lying down directly after eating, as this may make you feel more uncomfortable. Finally, try to avoid stressful situations as much as possible, as stress can increase the risk of loose motions.