IBS and Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, or thinking about becoming pregnant, you probably have questions that relate to your irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. 

There are several myths around IBS that relate to pregnancy and how it will affect your baby.  For example, it used to be advised for those with IBS to not become pregnant.

However nowadays as long as good antenatal care is both sought and given, there is no reason why women with IBS should not go on to have healthy babies.

Knowing how to have a healthy pregnancy with IBS and being aware of what steps to take for your health will assist you to have an easier pregnancy. 

One of the concerns from the past is whether those with IBS were able to have a baby or even become pregnant.  It was thought to be unhealthy for the baby as well as the mother. 

However, most doctors now consider pregnancy safe for those with IBS, although because it is referred to as a chronic illness, there are certain precautions that should be taken before and during the pregnancy to help ensure that IBS does not affect the baby’s health. 

There are also several areas of research that have been done on how IBS affects pregnancy.  There are several associations that have determined what is healthy for both you and your baby when you do decide to become pregnant. 

You can also ask your doctor if becoming pregnant with IBS at a specific point in time may cause you or your baby problems.  There are also several resources that can guide you in making the healthiest decisions. 

One of the considerations that will need to be made with pregnancy is whether any types of medications should be taken.  In general, certain medications are not recommended whilst pregnant. 

There are certain medications that are used for IBS that should be avoided, whilst others have been considered to be safe. For example,  Methotrexate and Thalidomide should be avoided during pregnancy as they may affect your baby. Other medications should only be given on the advice of your doctor

Those who are thinking about becoming pregnant may carefully consider when is the most appropriate time to do so.  It is best to make sure the IBS is not as active when you become pregnant and that the flares between your lower intestine, abdomen and colon are lower. 

This will help to prevent many complications during your pregnancy.  It has been known that some women’s symptoms have improved whilst pregnant whereas for others, the condition has worsened. 

Although pregnancy is considered safe for those with IBS, you should always consult with your doctor about your options as well as what you need to do to have a healthy pregnancy and baby. 

This not only includes what to change in your diet during the pregnancy, but also what medications and types of food to avoid to ensure that you will not have abdominal cramping or complications. 

By knowing what you need to do, as well as being aware of the options that are available before and during your pregnancy, you can make sure that IBS doesn’t get in the way of you beginning your family and producing healthy babies.