Diarrhoea in Pregnancy: Causes, Treatment and When to Seek Help

Experiencing diarrhoea in pregnancy can be uncomfortable, but it's a common issue. Hormonal changes, dietary shifts and digestive adjustments can all contribute, while infections or food intolerances may also play a role. Whether your symptoms are a short-lived acute episode, a persistent bout or a chronic concern, understanding the causes and knowing how to manage them will help you stay comfortable.

In this article, we'll cover the causes, symptoms and treatments for diarrhoea during pregnancy, and when to seek help.

Is Diarrhoea an Early Sign of Pregnancy?

While diarrhoea isn't generally related to pregnancy or a signs of pregnancy in itself, you may experience changes to your bowel movements in the first trimester.

For example, early in your pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause your digestive system to slow down, often leading to constipation.

Changes to your diet and nutrition during pregnancy may result in changes in your bowels, too. For instance, if you're eating more fibre now or taking pregnancy vitamins, these changes can affect the frequency and consistency of your bowel movements, potentially leading to pregnancy-related diarrhoea.

Drinking plenty of water can help with constipation and is also essential to help replenish the fluids lost by having diarrhoea, especially when you're pregnant. Talk to your midwife or doctor if you're having trouble with digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhoea in your pregnancy.

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Symptoms of Diarrhoea in Pregnancy

If you're experiencing diarrhoea in pregnancy, you may notice a range of digestive symptoms. These can appear at any stage, from the first trimester through to late pregnancy. The most common signs include:

• Loose, watery stools

• An urgent need to poo

• Stomach cramps or pain

• Feeling bloated

• Nausea

These symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go throughout the day. Keeping track of how long your symptoms last can help you understand whether your diarrhoea is acute, persistent or chronic - and when it may be time to seek advice.

How Long Does Diarrhoea Last in Pregnancy?

Understanding how long your symptoms last can guide your next steps:

Most cases of diarrhoea during pregnancy are acute and resolve on their own within a few days, usually within five to seven days according to NHS guidance.

Is Diarrhoea During Pregnancy Normal?

Although it might be worrying to experience stomach cramps and diarrhea during pregnancy, whether in early pregnancy or later, in most cases the diarrhoea will be unrelated to your pregnancy itself. It's most commonly triggered by a tummy bug (gastroenteritis), but other causes include a food allergy, intolerance or food poisoning. If your symptoms are mild, they will likely improve on their own within a few days. However, it's worth being aware that certain infections - particularly foodborne illnesses such as listeria - can carry specific risks during pregnancy, which we cover in more detail below.

The Causes of Diarrhoea During Pregnancy

Whether diarrhoea strikes in pregnancy or just before or afterwards, many things can cause it. Here are some of the most common causes it's worth knowing about:

Viral Infection

Viral infections are among the most common causes of diarrhoea in pregnancy. One of these, norovirus, is sometimes known as the 'vomiting bug'. Besides the diarrhoea, viral tummy bugs may come with some or all of these other symptoms:

• Nausea (feeling sick)

• Vomiting

• High temperature

• Aching limbs

To lower your chances of catching it, wash your hands frequently and avoid sharing tableware and touching your mouth after touching anything else. Keep in mind that alcohol-based hand gels don't kill norovirus, so always use soap and water for handwashing.

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Food Poisoning

Even during pregnancy, anyone can fall victim to food poisoning, which may cause symptoms similar to those of a viral infection. Reduce your risk by avoiding certain risky foods during pregnancy - such as unpasteurised dairy products and undercooked or raw seafood. If you're eating food containing raw or partially cooked hen eggs, make sure it's made with eggs produced under the British Lion or Laid in Britain scheme.

Always wash your hands before preparing any food, and make sure all kitchen surfaces have been cleaned with hot, soapy water. Some forms of food poisoning can lead to pregnancy complications that may affect your foetus's development, so contact your doctor promptly if you suspect food poisoning.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you're living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or frequently experience the symptoms of IBS, such as cramps, bloating and frequent swings between diarrhoea and constipation, talk to your doctor about how you can manage this condition during pregnancy.

The causes of IBS aren't fully understood, but it's believed that triggers can include stress or eating certain foods. It's also possible that IBS can run in families.

Traveller's Diarrhoea

If you plan on travelling while pregnant, continue to follow the guidelines on foods to avoid when pregnant. Before you head off, research any extra precautions depending on your destination. Some general recommendations:

• Drink bottled water instead of tap water

• Avoid anything washed in tap water, such as salad greens or raw fruits

• Use bottled water for brushing your teeth

• Opt for fruits with skins you peel yourself

• Stick to eating well-cooked food

If you do get traveller's diarrhoea, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and avoid dairy products and caffeinated drinks, which may worsen symptoms.

Other Causes of Diarrhoea

There are a number of other potential causes of diarrhoea during pregnancy worth being aware of. These include:

• Listeria or Salmonella infection

• Certain medications (ask your doctor about the potential side effects of any medicine you're taking, especially when pregnant)

• Food intolerances

• Coeliac disease

• Diverticular disease and diverticulitis

• Anxiety

What Infections and Foodborne Illnesses Can Cause Diarrhoea in Pregnancy?

Some infections that cause diarrhoea carry specific risks during pregnancy - not just for the pregnant person but also for the developing baby. Recognising these and following food safety guidance is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk.

Listeria (Listeriosis)

Listeria is a bacterial infection linked to certain foods that can be particularly dangerous during pregnancy. It can cause miscarriage, stillbirth or serious illness in newborns. Key foods to avoid include unpasteurised dairy, mould-ripened soft cheeses (such as brie, camembert and chèvre), pâté, and cold-smoked or cured fish (such as smoked salmon or gravlax, unless cooked until steaming hot). If you feel unwell after eating any of these foods, contact 111 for advice.

Salmonella

Salmonella is most commonly linked to raw or undercooked eggs and poultry. While Salmonella is unlikely to directly harm the unborn baby, the resulting illness can cause dehydration, which carries its own risks during pregnancy. British Lion or Laid in Britain hen eggs are safe to eat raw or partially cooked; all other eggs should be thoroughly cooked.

Norovirus and Other Viral Infections

As covered in the causes section above, norovirus usually resolves within two to three days but can cause rapid dehydration in pregnancy. Contact your GP if you are unable to keep fluids down.

Follow NHS Foods to Avoid in Pregnancy guidance throughout your pregnancy to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. If you experience diarrhoea in early pregnancy or at any stage and suspect food poisoning - including nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea - contact your GP or 111 promptly rather than waiting to see if symptoms resolve on their own.

Does Diarrhoea Affect You Differently in Each Trimester?

While diarrhoea is not typically associated with pregnancy, it can occur at various stages for different reasons. The table below offers a quick overview of what to expect in each trimester.

First Trimester

Diarrhoea in early pregnancy may occur due to hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy vitamins or dietary adjustments that can all contribute to digestive changes. Stomach cramps and diarrhea in early pregnancy are often linked to these rapid shifts in your body. Staying hydrated and eating bland foods can help ease symptoms during this time.

Second Trimester

While diarrhea during pregnancy 2nd trimester is less common, it may still occur due to changes in digestion, tummy bugs or food sensitivities. Vomiting and diarrhoea during pregnancy may also happen, sometimes due to a viral infection or another underlying condition.

Third Trimester

Some individuals experience diarrhoea during the third trimester, especially as they approach their due date. Diarrhoea at 36 weeks or later may be a sign that labour is near, as the body naturally prepares for delivery - read more in the section on whether diarrhoea means labour is approaching below.

Does Diarrhoea Mean Labour Is Near?

Experiencing diarrhoea in pregnancy can sometimes be an early sign that labour is approaching. As your body prepares for childbirth, hormonal changes may stimulate the bowels, leading to loose stools or diarrhoea. This is a common occurrence and can happen in the days leading up to labour or at its onset.

It's important to note that diarrhoea isn't always a guaranteed sign that labour is imminent. It could be caused by other factors, as we mentioned earlier. If you're experiencing diarrhoea in late pregnancy, it's a good idea to look out for other signs of labour, such as:

• Contractions. Regular tightening or cramping sensations that become progressively stronger and more frequent.

• A 'Show'. The release of a mucus plug from the cervix, which may be clear or slightly blood-stained.

• Backache. A persistent, dull ache in the lower back.

• Waters breaking. The rupture of the amniotic sac, resulting in a gush or trickle of fluid from the vagina.

What Is the Typical Course and Recovery from Diarrhoea in Pregnancy?

Most cases of diarrhoea during pregnancy are caused by a stomach bug or food sensitivity and resolve within a few days to a week without specific treatment. According to NHS guidance, diarrhoea typically stops within five to seven days in adults.

The priority during recovery is staying hydrated - dehydration is the main risk during pregnancy, which we cover in the treatment section below. Signs that you're recovering include:

• Stools becoming more formed

• Fewer trips to the toilet

• No worsening pain or fever

• Returning appetite

If your symptoms have not improved after three days, or worsen at any point, contact your GP or call 111.

Your GP may recommend anti-diarrhoeal medications that are safe during pregnancy. Do not take loperamide (Imodium) without first checking with your GP or midwife, as its safety in pregnancy is not established.

Treatment for Diarrhoea in Pregnancy

With diarrhoea, you can lose a lot of body fluid and be in danger of dehydration, so if you have diarrhoea during pregnancy, try to drink plenty of water. Here are some tips on what to eat and drink - and what to avoid.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid

• Caffeinated drinks (coffee, tea, cola)

• Sugary or fizzy drinks

• Dairy products (can worsen diarrhoea)

• Greasy, spicy or high-fibre foods

• Fruit juice

Foods and Drinks to Have

• Water - small, regular sips throughout the day

• Low-sugar squash

• Bland foods: bananas, rice, plain toast, apple sauce (the BRAT diet)

• Oral rehydration salts (ORS) if recommended by a pharmacist - these are available from UK pharmacies without prescription

Get plenty of rest and try to stay at home until symptoms resolve.

When Should You Seek Help for Diarrhoea in Pregnancy?

Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if:

• You have signs of a medical emergency (e.g. collapse, extreme pain, loss of consciousness)

• You pass blood in large quantities

• You have severe difficulty breathing alongside diarrhoea

Call 111 or contact your GP if:

• Diarrhoea has lasted more than 2–3 days without improvement

• You have signs of dehydration: dark urine, little or no urination, dry mouth and skin, dizziness or weakness

• You have a high temperature (fever)

• You have severe abdominal or rectal pain

• You pass bloody or black stools

• You have any signs of food poisoning (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) - do not wait for symptoms to worsen

Call your midwife or maternity unit immediately if (before 37 weeks):

• You notice reduced foetal movement

• You have regular contractions, period-like pains, unusual backache or changes in vaginal discharge alongside diarrhoea - these may indicate premature labour

• Your waters break

When in doubt, always contact your midwife, GP or call 111 - they are there to help.

The Bottom Line

Diarrhoea in pregnancy can sometimes be a normal response to hormonal or dietary changes, but it may also indicate a more serious issue, such as food poisoning. In addition to being uncomfortable, diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to consult your doctor as soon as possible. With proper treatment and plenty of rest, you should feel better soon.

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