Pre-labor diarrhea: What you need to know

Some pregnant women experience loose bowels just before their due date. Of course this may be cause for concern if it is excessive. We unpack the whole mystery behind you having the runs just before the arrival of your bundle of joy.

What causes diarrhea before labor?

Your hormones change rapidly to prepare your body for delivery, which causes the muscles in your uterus, cervix, and even your rectum to loosen. Some experts suspect that the emptying of your bowels is nature’s way of making enough room for baby to emerge.

What you need to know about diarrhea before labor

Diarrhea is a common and normal part of the prelabor process, so try to go with the flow. Yes, it’s unpleasant, but it can mean you’re that much closer to meeting your baby.In addition to diarrhea, you may also experience any (or all) of the following signs of labor as you enter the homestretch of your pregnancy:

Make sure you stay hydrated. Water is your best buddy right now.Eat lightly, but enough to maintain your strength. Chicken broth, toast with jam or a fruit pop will go down easily. Skip anything fatty (meat, full-fat dairy products or anything fried), protein-rich (meats), very fiber-filled (bran muffins) or acidic (no orange juice).

Stay calm — and near the bathroom. Just remember that if you’re having diarrhea close to your due date, it may mean the big day is almost here! So take heart in knowing that this is another short-lived symptom, as well as a sign that you’ll be meeting your sweet baby very soon.