A woman’s body undergoes many transformations during the nine months of pregnancy. When a woman is pregnant her body goes over many changes and it can be a difficult time for a soon-to-be-mother. Some of these physical changes are noticeable, such as weight gain and expanding belly. They experience morning sickness and backaches as well, which is a very common experience for pregnant women. Yes, a baby is without a doubt a blessing to the family, but no one tells a pregnant woman about unpleasant problems she may face during pregnancy. One such problem that scares most women is the presence of mucus in their stools while pregnant. Find out whether this problem is common or not.
What is Mucus?
You may think of mucus as the slimy substance you cough up when you’re sick. But it can also show up at the other end: in your poop. Most common question that every person is curious about is, “What is mucus?” Mucus is nothing but a white or yellow fluid which helps in lubricating the airway and gastrointestinal tract. It’s also used to reduce the damage that may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. As well, mucus can protect against stomach acid or other potentially harmful fluids or irritants. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through various changes; out of which mucus in her stool is common. While many women experience vaginal discharge, it’s not often associated with pregnancy. But most pregnant women will secrete sticky, white, or pale-yellow mucus early on in the first trimester and throughout their pregnancy.
Is it Normal For Pregnant Women to Have Mucus in Stool?
Mucus in stool during pregnancy is common, but in excess, it can lead to various health issues. One common question here is, “Is it normal to have mucus in stool during pregnancy?” Well, the presence of mucus in stool in early pregnancy is considered normal, mainly because the presence of mucus in stool can be due to the changes in your body during pregnancy. It is not an unusual occurrence and usually goes away within a few days. If there’s only a little mucus in your poop, you probably don’t need to worry. Especially during the first trimester, when the body is undergoing a lot of changes, there is an increased risk of mucous excretion which is completely normal. But if you notice blood along with mucus in your stool during pregnancy and notice it often, then you should contact your gynecologist.
When Should you Consult a Doctor?
Mucus is not normal when a large amount of visible mucus in your stool isn’t normal and might be a sign of a problem. If you begin seeing mucus in your stool, the levels are probably already elevated. That doesn’t necessarily indicate you have a problem, but it’s something you should monitor. Also, if you have lower abdominal pain and you notice a lot of mucus in your stool, don’t take the problem lightly. You should consult a doctor.
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What Are The Causes?
Pregnancy can truly cause confusion upon any woman’s bodies. From leaking colostrum at random and often unfortunate times, to getting kicked in the bladder and urinating, there are many aspects of pregnancy that simply don’t “glow.” Mostly, mucus in stool is caused due to some digestive problems. Common causes of mucus in stool in pregnant women are:
- Hormonal changes can result in the presence of mucus in stool. There are high hormonal fluctuations taking place in since during pregnancy. There is an increased chance of finding mucus in stool.
- The occurrence of mucus in your body during pregnancy could be the prenatal vitamins you take. If these vitamins have an excess of iron or calcium, you may notice mucus in your poop.
- The increase in the size of the uterus during pregnancy disrupts the intestine which may also lead to excretion of mucus.
- If you have food allergies associated with nuts or lactose, it can cause mucus in your stool.
- Dehydration can also lead to mucus in stool.
How to Prevent Mucus in Stool?
For some pregnant women, they may think that these practices are just normal but they are not aware that these practices could cause the presence of mucus in stool. There are certain guidelines which can help in reducing the risk of mucus excretion during pregnancy like first, staying hydrated helps in prevention of mucus and various other health problems during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water during pregnancy, and if needed, use hydration salts too. This can seem impossible when you’re likely running to the bathroom to pee a million times a day, but this and fruit juices like apple, grape, or prune juice can help to regulate constipation as well as hydrate you.
Another thing is performing light exercises which are suitable for pregnant women (with the prior recommendation of your doctor) can also help. It’s a lot to ask, right? Many of us struggle or have struggled with trying to find the energy to exercise during pregnancy, but even a small amount of exercise, such as 10 minutes a day, can be extremely beneficial for all aspects of our health, but especially for our digestion. Maintaining a healthy diet is also important, not just for mucus prevention but for a healthier pregnancy in general. No, you don’t have to choke down some disgusting orange-flavored powder drink. In fact, fruits and juices, vegetables, beans, and whole grains (like oatmeal) are excellent sources of fiber.
Final Words
Even though the presence of mucus in pregnancy is not a big problem, it is always better to talk to a doctor if that’s what is making you anxious. With the presence of mucus, it is highly advisable to contact your health provider. Moreover, if you have extreme abdominal pain, it is also advisable to contact a maternity doctor. Discuss this problem with your doctor, he will provide the right treatment. Discussing bowel movements is an uncomfortable topic for anyone, but doctors are professionals who are there to help you, not to judge you. It’s especially important if you have been having any of the illness-related symptoms above that could lead to pregnancy complications. Furthermore, don’t stress yourself during pregnancy. Make sure that you complete the course of medications you have been prescribed.
Read Also:
- Cholestasis Of Pregnancy: Cause, Symptoms, And Cure
- Assessment Of Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
- How an amniotic fluid smell does and its importance during pregnancy?
