IBS in pregnancy

Overview

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It can cause tummy pain, bloating, and changes in your bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea). When you are pregnant, your body goes through many changes, and these can affect your IBS symptoms. Some people feel better, some feel worse. The good news is that with the right support, most people with IBS can have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Yes. IBS affects up to 15–20% of people in the UK, and it is most often diagnosed in women in their late teens to forties. So it is not unusual to have IBS during pregnancy.

It affects women who already have IBS and get pregnant. Some women develop IBS-like symptoms for the first time during pregnancy, but symptoms like bloating and constipation can also be normal in pregnancy. A healthcare professional can help tell the difference.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Abdominal (tummy) pain or cramping
• Bloating and excess wind
• Changes in bowel habits: constipation, diarrhoea, or alternating between the two
• Feeling like you have not fully emptied your bowels
• Mucus in your stools
• Because pregnancy itself can cause similar symptoms, it can sometimes be hard to know what is IBS and what is just pregnancy.

Symptoms in children

• This article is about IBS in pregnancy, so it does not directly apply to children. If you are caring for a child with stomach or bowel problems, please speak to their doctor or paediatrician.

Symptoms in older adults

• This article is about IBS in pregnancy, so it does not directly apply to older adults. If you are an older adult with bowel symptoms, see your doctor for a thorough check.

Causes

Main causes

• In IBS, the gut is more sensitive and the muscles of the bowel may not move food through at the right pace – this is often called a 'brain–gut' problem.
• During pregnancy, hormone changes (especially progesterone) can slow digestion and relax the bowel muscles, which may add to bloating, constipation or discomfort.
• Stress, anxiety, sleep changes, and normal pregnancy diet changes can also trigger flare-ups.

Risk factors

• Having had IBS before pregnancy
• A family history of IBS
• A history of anxiety, depression, or stress
• Noticeable changes in your diet or eating pattern during pregnancy
• A previous pregnancy that caused digestive symptoms

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above, contact your local emergency care or call your emergency number right away, or go to the nearest urgent care. Do not wait.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If IBS symptoms are making it hard to eat, sleep, or manage daily life
• If you need help distinguishing between normal pregnancy symptoms and IBS
• If you want advice on medicines or remedies that are safe in pregnancy
• If you have not yet had your first antenatal appointment, mention your IBS then

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional will take a detailed history of your symptoms, ask about how long they have lasted, and examine your tummy. Because you are pregnant, the doctor will be careful to avoid tests that are not necessary. They will also consider whether your symptoms might be from the pregnancy itself.

Tests that may be done

• Stool (poo) sample to check for infection or blood
• Blood tests to check for anaemia or other conditions
• Urine test as part of routine antenatal care
• Sometimes an ultrasound scan to look at your baby and abdominal organs – it is safe during pregnancy

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will talk through your symptoms and may examine your tummy. They may ask you to keep a symptom diary. You might be referred to a gastroenterologist or a specialist midwife who has expertise in pregnancy and digestive health. They will work with you to create a safe plan to manage your symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for IBS in pregnancy focuses on safe, conservative approaches: diet, lifestyle, and emotional wellbeing. Any medicine – even over-the-counter products – must be discussed with your doctor or midwife first, because not everything is safe for your baby during pregnancy.

Self-care at home

• Eating small, frequent meals to ease bloating and pain
• Keeping a food diary to spot trigger foods
• Drinking plenty of water to prevent constipation
• Gentle physical activity like walking or pregnancy yoga
• Practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness
• Getting enough rest and sleep

Medical treatments

Sometimes your doctor may recommend a medicine to help with your symptoms. They will choose one that is considered safe in pregnancy and at the lowest dose that works. This might include remedies for constipation, diarrhoea, or pain. Never take a medicine during pregnancy, including herbal or over-the-counter products, without checking with your doctor or midwife first.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat IBS in pregnancy. If you have a more serious condition that needs surgery, your team will discuss the risks and benefits with you, but this is not part of normal IBS management.

Living with this condition

Living with IBS in pregnancy can feel tiring, but many people manage very well. Be gentle with yourself, listen to your body, and ask for help when you need it. Your doctor and midwife can support you.

Lifestyle tips

• Set a regular meal and snack routine
• Try to have a regular sleep schedule
• Make time for gentle activity most days
• Reduce stress with simple relaxation practices
• Carry snacks and water, especially when out

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with enough fibre and fluids is important. Some people with IBS are sensitive to specific food groups like dairy or wheat. Instead of cutting out major food groups, ask to see a dietitian. Gentle exercise such as walking, swimming, or pregnancy yoga can help keep your bowels moving and reduce stress.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Pregnancy and IBS can both cause worry. You may feel anxious about avoiding triggers, or about whether symptoms could hurt your baby. These feelings are normal. Talk to your midwife or doctor – they can offer emotional support or connect you with counselling. Remember, IBS itself does not harm your baby.

Prevention

You cannot prevent IBS, but you can often prevent flare-ups by keeping a balanced diet, managing stress, staying active, and avoiding foods you know cause problems. During pregnancy, if you notice something triggers your IBS, try to avoid it – but first discuss any changes with your doctor or dietitian.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for IBS. During pregnancy, you will be offered routine vaccines (such as whooping cough and flu) for your health and your baby's health. These are safe and recommended – your midwife can tell you more.

Screening programmes

There is no specific screening needed for IBS, but routine antenatal checks are important. These tests help monitor your health and your baby's growth. If you have IBS, there is no extra screening required, but your doctor may check your blood count to look for anaemia.

Complications

If left untreated

• If IBS symptoms are not managed, you may become dehydrated or undernourished, which could affect your energy and wellbeing during pregnancy.
• Severe constipation can lead to piles (haemorrhoids) or anal fissures, which can be sore.
• Persistent diarrhoea can lead to fluid loss and electrolyte disturbances.
• The main risk is not from the IBS itself, but from ignoring symptoms that might be a sign of another digestive problem or a pregnancy complication.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for people with IBS in pregnancy is generally positive. Most people continue to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Symptoms can change over the months, and many people find their IBS settles after giving birth. With the right support, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy your pregnancy journey.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.