Gastroenteritis during pregnancy: how to treat it ?

Gastroenteritis in pregnant women: what are the risks? What to do?

Gastroenteritis, this infection of the digestive system, can occur during pregnancy. Although it is generally not dangerous for the baby or the mother, it is advisable to stay well hydrated and to consult your doctor in case of fever. And when the symptoms last more than three days.

Every year, the gastro epidemic is back! It is most often in winter and until the beginning of spring that we record a peak of the disease. This infection manifests itself by nausea , vomiting , fever and diarrhea , then fades and disappears quickly, in 2 to 3 days. When you are pregnant , there is generally no risk for the mother and the baby when the symptoms do not set in. But for a pregnant woman at the end of pregnancy , it is necessary to remain vigilant about the risk of premature delivery . In case of fever, it is mandatory to consult a doctor.

What is stomach flu?

Gastroenteritis is caused by viruses ( rotavirus in children or norovirus in adults), bacteria or parasites. This infection of the digestive system affects the stomach and intestines and causes vomiting and abdominal pain that generally does not have serious consequences for the fetus and the mother-to-be when pregnant.

Diarrhea, vomiting, stomach ache, symptoms of gastroenteritis in pregnant women

"When gastroenteritis is diagnosed, we find at least one of these 4 major symptoms. The patient has diarrhea, at least 3 loose stools per day, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and fever. This infection lasts on average 2 to 3 days. Fortunately, we can follow certain treatments to soothe the symptoms and relieve the pain. But when you are pregnant, it is important not to self-medicate."

How to treat food poisoning when pregnant, what medications to take?

In case of gastroenteritis during pregnancy, especially at the end of pregnancy , it is recommended to consult your doctor. Because he will be able to identify the agent responsible for the intestinal infection and check that it is not a bacterial infection that can have more serious repercussions on the baby's health. "When the disease is caused by bacteria , we tend to have more significant symptoms with: fever, blood in the stool. But the cause can also be endocrine, inflammatory, due to celiac disease or Crohn's disease,".

What to take and what to do in case of gastroenteritis during pregnancy?

To treat viral gastroenteritis during pregnancy, you should rely solely on your doctor's prescription. No need to rush to the medicine cabinet to take a medicine without medical advice! "Do not hesitate to consult your doctor, who can prescribe antispasmodics for abdominal cramps, racecadotril-based medications for diarrhea, for example. But it is also important to adopt a targeted diet to help your intestines resume their work without becoming irritated, and to make sure to hydrate your baby well."

Please note : the gastroenteritis virus is highly contagious. It is transmitted mainly by hand contact, that is, by simple contact with hands carrying the virus. To avoid the transmission of germs, we will therefore ensure that we wash our hands carefully, clean door handles, worktops and other potentially soiled surfaces.

How to relieve vomiting during pregnancy and stop the onset of gastroenteritis?

Whether you are pregnant or not, vomiting can be relieved by following an appropriate treatment prescribed by your doctor, but you must also ensure that you stay well hydrated to compensate for the loss of water and mineral salts essential for the baby's proper development and gradually resume a varied diet.

Gastroenteritis during pregnancy, what are the risks?

Gastroenteritis can present risks for certain people such as the elderly, babies, immunocompromised people and pregnant women, in certain situations.

Is it dangerous to have gastroenteritis when you are pregnant?

"Whether you are pregnant or not, dehydration is the main risk of gastroenteritis. But in pregnant women, it can have consequences on the health of the baby. In addition, it is never good to have a fever when you are pregnant. A consultation with your doctor is essential! At the end of pregnancy, vomiting and abdominal cramps can lead to a risk of premature delivery". In addition, if the symptoms of gastroenteritis persist, with a fever of more than 3 days, diarrhea that does not stop and uncontrollable vomiting, it will be necessary to ensure that the correct diagnosis has been made.

What to eat when you are pregnant and have gastroenteritis?

In case of gastroenteritis, the mere sight or smell of food can disgust us, to the point of making us nauseous! But, once the vomiting has subsided, it is important to try to gradually resume a varied diet to stock up on the nutrients we need for our baby. However, this diet must protect the digestive system from irritation and help to resolidify the stools. "After a few hours of rest and fasting, we rehydrate with slightly sweetened water and oral rehydration sachets, then soft foods such as rice, pasta or boiled carrots. We must start with small snacks so as not to overload the intestines, go slowly. And very quickly, after the symptoms of gastroenteritis have disappeared, we will resume a natural and balanced diet."