Users' questions

Can having IBS affect pregnancy?

Can having IBS affect pregnancy?

How does IBS affect pregnancy? Some research shows a small increased risk of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, while other studies have found no increased risk. Just be alert to any signs of impending preterm contractions, but don’t be worried. Ditto for any other potential risk associated with the condition.

Can pregnancy make IBS symptoms worse?

There’s no way of telling whether your IBS will get worse or better during pregnancy. While some women report increased symptoms, others report that their IBS symptoms disappeared completely during their pregnancy.

Why do pregnant women have more IBS symptoms?

IBS and Pregnancy. In general, women who are pregnant tend to experience more IBS symptoms than women who are not pregnant. This is most likely because the hormones of pregnancy have an effect on the working of your digestive system.

What’s the best way to treat IBS while pregnant?

Two types of therapy — cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and hypnotherapy — have been shown to be effective in reducing IBS symptoms. The major advantage to these treatments is that you do not have to worry about any negative effects on your baby.

Can a woman with IBS have an ectopic pregnancy?

This study did not provide any information as to how this risk relates to IBS subtype. A similar increased risk of miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy was also detected in women who have IBS along with anxiety and depression. And not surprisingly, the risk was higher for women who had IBS and smoked.

Is it possible to have a stillborn baby with IBS?

Luckily, there was no increased risk noted for having a stillborn baby. Keep in mind that such studies point to a correlation and not causation. It may not be your IBS-D that raises your risk, but rather some other unknown factor that raises the risk for the IBS and any possible problems with your pregnancy.