Experiencing Unusual Stomach Sensations Postpartum
I am currently 13 weeks after giving birth and weigh 170 pounds at a height of 5 feet 3 inches. My current medication regimen includes 50mg of Zoloft, Allegra to manage hives, and Advil for occasional discomforts such as back pain or headaches. I have a medical history that includes chronic, unexplained hives as well as palpitations known as PVCs and PACs. Additionally, I experienced gestational diabetes during my pregnancy, which was managed with insulin. I have never smoked. Lately, in the past six weeks, I have been feeling an unusual sloshing sensation in my stomach. I doubt that it’s due to fluid build-up in my abdomen; rather, it feels as if the movement is happening inside my stomach. There’s no vomiting, but I do experience a considerable amount of gas, and sometimes burping alleviates the discomfort associated with this sloshing feeling. Also, I find myself waking up during the night with feelings of nausea, but there’s no associated pain. This odd sensation tends to manifest frequently throughout the day, particularly when I’m driving or shifting positions while seated. My gastrointestinal specialist has an appointment scheduled for September 29th, leaving me with over a month of waiting. This has never occurred before, and I’m feeling quite anxious after searching for information online. I’ve come across worrying terms like gastric obstruction or gastroparesis, as well as pancreatic cancer. Given my symptoms, do you think it would be prudent for me to contact either my primary care physician or my GI specialist to discuss my concerns and potentially expedite my consultation? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 10:51:01 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about unusual stomach sensations, especially after giving birth. Your symptoms, such as the sloshing feeling, gas, and occasional nausea, may be related to changes in your digestive system postpartum. Here’s a breakdown of what might be happening and the next steps you can take.
Explanation:
After childbirth, your body undergoes several changes that can affect digestion. Hormonal shifts, changes in physical activity, and stress can all contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. The sloshing sensation you describe is often related to digestive processes, such as gas buildup or changes in gut motility. Additionally, your history of gestational diabetes can also influence your digestive health, making you more sensitive to changes in eating patterns.
Next Steps:
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a diary noting when the sloshing sensation occurs, along with any food intake, activities, and emotional states. This will help identify triggers and offer valuable information for your GI appointment.
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Dietary Changes: Consider eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger ones to see if that helps reduce the sensations. Avoid carbonated beverages, fried foods, and heavy meals, which may contribute to gas and discomfort.
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Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports digestion and can help alleviate gas and bloating. Aim for at least 2-3 liters a day, unless you have specific restrictions.
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Relaxation Techniques: Since stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, try relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga. This can help ease anxiety and possibly reduce symptoms.
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Contact Healthcare Providers: Given your concerns and the time until your GI appointment, it may be beneficial to reach out to your primary care physician or GI specialist for advice. Express your symptoms and anxiety about them to see if they can provide earlier guidance or reassurance.
While it’s good to stay informed, be cautious about interpreting online medical information as it can lead to unnecessary worry. Remember, your healthcare providers are there to help clarify any concerns.
If your symptoms worsen or you experience severe nausea, vomiting, or significant changes in bowel habits, prioritize contacting your healthcare provider more urgently. You're taking the right steps by seeking advice and being proactive about your health, and there are often effective ways to manage postpartum symptoms.
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