Diarrhoea in pregnancy: what to know

Pregnancy does not make every episode of diarrhoea an emergency. A stomach infection, food poisoning, a food intolerance, medication, or a pre-existing bowel condition can cause loose stools. The key risks are dehydration, inability to keep fluids down, and infection that needs treatment.

Note when it started, how often it happens, whether there is fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, blood or mucus, and whether you can pass urine normally. These details help distinguish a brief stomach upset from a problem needing assessment.

Sip water or an oral rehydration solution recommended by a clinician, taking small amounts often if nausea is present. Eat light meals as tolerated and avoid foods that clearly worsen symptoms. Rest, wash hands well, and avoid preparing food for others while unwell.

Check every medicine with a maternity clinician or pharmacist before taking it, including anti-diarrhoeal products, antibiotics and supplements. Do not stop prescribed pregnancy medicines without advice. If vomiting prevents drinking, call your maternity team.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, blood or black stool, fainting, confusion, trouble breathing, very little urine, or inability to keep fluids down. Contact your maternity team promptly for fever, ongoing diarrhoea, painful contractions, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, or reduced fetal movement after you have begun feeling regular movement.

Ask which rehydration drink and medicines are suitable for you, whether a stool test is needed, how to protect household members, and which pregnancy symptoms should trigger same-day review.