What causes increased bowel movements in pregnant women?

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, increased bowel movements in pregnant women may be caused by hormonal changes, uterine pressure, irritable bowel syndrome, acute gastroenteritis, or intestinal flora imbalance. Appropriate lifestyle adjustments or medical treatments can be selected based on individual circumstances to improve the condition. Bowel habits during pregnancy are closely related to maternal and fetal health; if frequent bowel movements are accompanied by symptoms such as rectal bleeding or dehydration, immediate medical attention is required.

In general, increased bowel movements during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, uterine pressure, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acute gastroenteritis, or intestinal flora imbalance. Appropriate lifestyle adjustments or medical treatments can be selected based on individual circumstances to improve the condition. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

Elevated progesterone levels during pregnancy inhibit intestinal smooth muscle motility, shortening the retention time of food residue and leading to increased frequency of bowel movements. Eating small, frequent meals, choosing easily digestible foods, and taking a light walk after meals can help promote intestinal motility.

2. Uterine Pressure

As gestational age increases, the growing uterus compresses the rectum, stimulating the defecation reflex and resulting in more frequent bowel movements. Avoid prolonged sitting, adjust defecation posture, and develop regular bowel habits.

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Large emotional fluctuations during pregnancy can disrupt gastrointestinal function, triggering IBS, which manifests as increased bowel movements accompanied by bloating. Under medical guidance, medications such as montmorillonite powder, bifidobacterium triple viable capsules, or trimebutine maleate tablets may be taken, while maintaining emotional stability.

4. Acute Gastroenteritis

Consumption of contaminated food can lead to bacterial infection of the intestines, causing inflammation and irritation of the intestinal mucosa, resulting in symptoms such as increased bowel movements and abdominal pain. Under medical guidance, oral rehydration salts III, cefaclor capsules, or lactobacillus tablets may be used, along with a light diet.

5. Intestinal Flora Imbalance

Changes in dietary patterns or decreased immunity during pregnancy can disrupt the balance of intestinal flora, reducing beneficial bacteria and causing digestive dysfunction. Under medical guidance, medications such as live combined bifidobacterium and bacillus subtilis granules, viable bacillus licheniformis capsules, or clostridium butyricum tablets may be taken, along with a balanced diet.

Bowel habits during pregnancy are closely related to maternal and fetal health. If frequent bowel movements are accompanied by symptoms such as rectal bleeding or dehydration, immediate medical attention is required. Maintaining good dietary hygiene, balancing coarse and fine grains, and staying in a positive mood are essential for supporting a healthy pregnancy.

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