Gases in pregnancy: how can you avoid it?

You are pregnant? Congratulations! You probably noticed changes in your body even before the pregnancy test was positive, such as tightness in the abdomen, an uncomfortable feeling of fullness or tenderness in the breasts.

Flatulence during pregnancy is another unpleasant side effect. We explain why these can occur frequently during the three trimesters, what helps against them and when it is best to seek medical attention.

Why does bloating and gas occur during pregnancy?

Pregnant women feel bloating and suffer from flatulence from the first weeks. It can be said that they are among the first symptoms of pregnancy.

The reason for these digestive problems is, among other things, el hormonal change in the body. At the beginning of pregnancy, the hormone progesterone is released, which relaxes the muscles of the internal organs so that the uterus can expand and the baby has enough space.

A small drawback is that the intestines and digestive tract also become sluggish, meaning more intestinal gas is produced that cannot escape. In addition to hormonal changes, there are many other reasons for flatulence during pregnancy, even beyond the first trimester.

Other causes are possible:

Change in diet: At the beginning of pregnancy, expectant mothers often change their diet. Instead of simple carbs and greasy foods, they often include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber on the menu. While this is great, don’t overdo it, because high-fiber foods promote digestive upset if you’re not used to it. Iron pills can also slow down the intestines and cause constipation.Lack of exercise: Many women move less during pregnancy, which is largely due to the growing baby bump. However, less exercise can have a negative impact on digestion.Lack of space in the stomach: In the last trimester of pregnancy, the baby curls up on the stomach. The ever-expanding uterus and child displace the other organs. The tightness is greater towards the end of the pregnancy, which can cause heartburn, a feeling of fullness and flatulence.Stress:stress and anxiety often affect the gastrointestinal tract in both pregnant and non-pregnant women. Especially in the last trimester of pregnancy, it is normal for the intestines to get out of control in the face of uncertainty and nervousness.

How to prevent gas in pregnancy

Some Little things can prevent flatulence during pregnancy. The following measures have proven useful:

Avoid certain foods, such as legumes or leeks. It is better to resort to easily digestible vegetables such as fennel, carrots and tomatoes. You should also avoid fatty and spicy foods. Dairy products can also cause gas in some women.Drink at least two liters a day and avoid carbonated drinks. Still water and herbal infusions based on fennel, anise or mint are the best.

Gases in pregnancy: natural aids

If you suffer from acute flatulence during pregnancy, you can try various home remedies before resorting to medication. Herbal folk remedies for flatulence and a feeling of satiety are mainly fennel, caraway, lemon balm, anise, marjoram and mint.

All these medicinal plants have an antispasmodic and calming effect on the gastrointestinal tract. Pregnant women can drink them as an infusion, use them or as a spice.

When should you go to your gynecologist?

Normally, flatulence during pregnancy can be easily controlled with home remedies and herbal medicines. However, if the symptoms do not improve over a long period of time and other symptoms such as fever appear, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Even If you feel that your bloated stomach is very distressing, you can visit your gynecologist or talk to him at your next check-up.