At 38 weeks of pregnancy, why do I always feel like having a bowel movement?

May 14, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lv Aiming

Introduction

At 38 weeks of pregnancy, which is considered late pregnancy, a persistent sensation of needing to defecate is commonly experienced. This may usually be attributed to normal physiological changes during pregnancy, but could also result from false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks), diarrhea, or other causes. If the woman has indeed entered the labor process, the dilation of the cervix can cause pressure on the rectum, leading to a feeling of anal expansion and frequent urge to pass stool. It is recommended to prepare accordingly and promptly go to the hospital's obstetrics department for delivery.

At 38 weeks of pregnancy, the gestational period has reached its late stage. A persistent sensation of needing to defecate is usually considered related to physiological changes of pregnancy, but it may also be caused by false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks contractions), diarrhea, or other factors. It is recommended to undergo appropriate evaluations, and if necessary, follow medical advice for medication and treatment.

1. Physiological Changes During Pregnancy

In the late stages of pregnancy, the fetus descends into the pelvis, which may compress the rectum and cause pregnant women to feel the urge to defecate. If no other discomfort symptoms are present, close observation is recommended, and specific treatment is generally not required.

2. False Labor Contractions (Braxton Hicks Contractions)

During pregnancy, episodes of abdominal tightening or hardening are common and are usually associated with false labor contractions. These may be accompanied by feelings of anal pressure or the urge to defecate. If contractions are infrequent and not associated with abdominal pain, adequate rest is usually sufficient.

3. Diarrhea

Diarrhea may result from exposure of the abdomen to cold temperatures or consuming spoiled or contaminated food, leading to increased gastrointestinal motility, frequent bowel movements, and watery stools. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Medications such as smectite powder may be used as directed by a physician to help relieve symptoms.

If active labor has begun, due to cervical dilation, intestinal irritation, endometritis, or similar conditions, pregnant women may experience sensations of anal dilation and frequent urges to defecate. In such cases, it is advisable to prepare accordingly and proceed promptly to the obstetrics department of a hospital for delivery.

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Is leg soreness and pain at 38 weeks of pregnancy a sign that labor is near?

At 38 weeks of pregnancy, the growing fetus and uterus gradually increase the pregnant woman's weight, which may place extra pressure on the leg joints and muscles, causing soreness. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and does not necessarily indicate that labor is imminent. However, if leg soreness is accompanied by increased vaginal discharge or intensified contractions, these could be signs that labor is approaching.

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Diarrhea with abdominal pain at 38 weeks of pregnancy

Diarrhea, commonly referred to as "loose bowels," during week 38 of pregnancy accompanied by abdominal pain may be related to signs of labor, poor diet, a cold abdomen, false labor contractions (Braxton Hicks), or acute gastroenteritis. Pregnant women are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on the specific condition. In late pregnancy, it is important to maintain a light diet, relax the body, and avoid prolonged periods of stress, anxiety, or other negative emotions.