Concerns About Bowel Movements During Pregnancy
I’m a 35-year-old woman, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 150 pounds. A year ago, I underwent surgery for appendicitis, and ever since, my bowel movements have not returned to what I would consider normal. I have an upcoming obstetric appointment in two weeks, but I am contemplating whether I should address my concerns sooner. Since my appendectomy, my bowel habits have drastically changed; I consistently experience loose and frequent stools, particularly in the mornings. This has significantly impacted my daily routine, preventing me from engaging in exercise until later in the day due to the unpredictability of needing to use the restroom. Currently, I am approximately 17 weeks into my pregnancy, and my bowel issues appear to have worsened. While many women experience constipation during this time, my situation is quite the opposite. I struggle to be away from a toilet for more than an hour without feeling an urgency, which nearly led to an embarrassing situation on a recent two-mile walk. My bowel movements range from loose to liquid nearly every day. Occasionally, I have noticed bright yellow traces when wiping, although the stool itself does not exhibit any yellow color. Additionally, I have encountered stools that resemble fatty or bile-like consistency in the toilet. Given these ongoing issues, I would appreciate guidance on whether I should seek medical attention before my scheduled appointment or if it's safe to wait. Thank you for your help.
Answers (1)
2/18/2026, 2:00:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s important to address your bowel movement concerns, especially during your pregnancy at 17 weeks. You are experiencing significant changes in your bowel habits that might affect your daily life, and it’s understandable to feel anxious about this.
Explanation:
After an appendectomy, some individuals may experience changes in bowel habits. Loose and frequent stools can result from several factors, including dietary changes, stress, or alterations in gut flora. The presence of bright yellow traces and fatty stools could suggest the malabsorption of fats, which may need attention. While pregnancy can lead to various digestive symptoms, the severity and nature of your symptoms warrant careful observation.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of your bowel movements for the next week, noting their frequency, consistency, and any accompanying symptoms (e.g., pain, urgency). This information can help identify patterns and inform your healthcare provider.
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Hydration and Diet:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is vital, especially if you're having loose stools.
- Dietary Adjustments: Consider a low-fiber diet temporarily, avoiding high-fiber foods, dairy products, and greasy foods, which can sometimes exacerbate symptoms. Instead, focus on bland foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (BRAT diet).
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Limit Caffeine and Artificial Sweeteners: Caffeine can stimulate bowel movements, and certain artificial sweeteners can lead to diarrhea. Reducing or eliminating these from your diet might help.
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Seek Attention: Given the persistence and impact of your symptoms on your daily activities, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider sooner rather than waiting for your scheduled appointment in two weeks. They can evaluate your symptoms in detail and may recommend tests to rule out any underlying issues, especially given the recent changes related to your pregnancy.
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Emergency Symptoms: If you experience severe abdominal pain, blood in your stools, or dehydration symptoms (like dizziness or reduced urination), seek immediate medical attention.
Final Thoughts:
Your concerns are valid, and addressing them promptly is important for both your health and your pregnancy. You’re doing the right thing by seeking advice, and keeping a close eye on your symptoms will aid your healthcare provider in understanding your situation better.
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