Causes of Decreased Appetite in the Third Trimester

Apr 08, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am now over 35 weeks pregnant. Recently, my appetite has been poor, and I have difficulty eating. What are the possible causes of decreased appetite during the third trimester of pregnancy?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Ting
A decreased appetite in the third trimester is a normal physiological phenomenon. As the fetus continues to develop during late pregnancy, the uterus enlarges and the uterine fundus rises, exerting pressure on the stomach. This alters the stomach’s original position and shape, impairing its normal function and leading to reduced appetite in pregnant women. However, this symptom may also result from pregnancy-related fatty liver disease; impaired liver function can likewise cause loss of appetite, necessitating careful differential diagnosis.