Having diarrhea can be a sign of labor, it can also be a sign that you had something that didn’t sit well with your stomach, so how can you tell the difference? This article will dive deeper into that, and how you can know what’s going on with your body.
But before get started, how do I know so much about fun subjects like this?
Hi — I’m Hilary — The Pregnancy Nurse 👩⚕️. I have been a nurse since 1997 and I have 20 years of OB nursing experience, I am also the curly head behind Pulling Curls and The Online Prenatal Class for Couples. 🩺 I have talked to LOTS of people experiencing these, as well as having 3 of my own babies — so I’m a great reference for this!
And, if you’re 38 weeks you really need to take a prenatal class — did you know that studies show they decrease your chance of a C-section or an induction! That one can be done in just a few hours! — you still have time!
Is Diarrhea a Sign of Labor?
It can be, but it’s complicated. It can both be that your stomach is not as tolerant as normal, OR that your body is trying to clear out your intestinal track for baby. But, how do you know?
Let’s understand a bit more about it….
What causes diarrhea before labor?
Diarrhea before labor can be caused by a combination of factors related to the changes occurring in the body during pregnancy (this is true of SO many bodily functions towards the end of pregnancy).
As the due date approaches, the body starts preparing for labor, and one of the ways it does so is by releasing prostaglandins. These hormone-like substances stimulate the uterus to contract and help soften the cervix in preparation for childbirth.
Cervidil and Cytotec (Misoprostol) are also synthetic prostaglandins that they give for an induction on an unfavorable cervix.
However, prostaglandins can also affect the bowel by increasing its activity and causing diarrhea.
Additionally, the growing uterus puts pressure on the surrounding organs, including the bowels, which can lead to changes in bowel movements. Hormonal changes, such as increased levels of progesterone, can also contribute to the development of diarrhea before labor.
While diarrhea can be uncomfortable, it is generally considered a normal part of the pre-labor process. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider if the diarrhea is severe, accompanied by other symptoms, or if there are concerns about dehydration.
The toilet is actually one of my favorite places to be for early labor, so they kind of go hand in hand!
And, if you’re in early labor — get that hospital bag ready:
What can you do about diarrhea before labor?
Diarrhea before you go into labor is not uncommon and can be pretty annoying (one more thing) for expecting mothers. However, there are a few things that can be done to alleviate this issue before the due date and the big day arrives.
Firstly, it is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids such as water, clear broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks. This helps to replace any lost fluids due to diarrhea and prevents dehydration.
It is also recommended to eat small, frequent meals that are easily digestible, such as plain rice, boiled potatoes, and bananas. These foods are gentle on the stomach and can help to firm up the stools. Additionally, avoiding spicy, greasy, or overly processed foods can also minimize the occurrence of diarrhea.
You don’t want to take medication to stop it unless it’s really severe — in which case you should talk with your provider.
Do Loose Stools Mean Labor Is Near?
Loose stools alone won’t make you have your baby. However, sometimes your stomach wants to get in on the contraction action that your uterus is doing.
So, it being affected by the hormones causing uterine contractions may be trying to clear out the GI tract to give baby more room (frankly, we don’t know why it happens, but that somehow makes me feel better if I’m having cramps and diarrhea at the same time).
If anything diarrhea would be an early labor sign — as most people don’t have it when true labor begins (unless they took castor oil).
Labor has lots of different signs, and this may be one of them. So, keep an eye on it.
Does Everyone Have Loose Stools Before Labor?
Some people experience loose stools 24-48 hours before labor, but not everyone does. So, you can definitely be in labor without having diarrhea.
What Are the Most Common Signs of Labor?
The most common signs of labor include contractions, where the uterus tightens and relaxes at regular intervals. This should be causing the baby to push through the cervix (opening it).
Some women may also experience back pain, which can be a sign that labor is close.
The loss of the mucus plug, a gelatinous discharge that seals the cervix during pregnancy, is another sign that labor is approaching (although it may still be a while with just that sign).
Women may also have loose stools or diarrhea as the body prepares for childbirth. Some also have sudden fatigue, spotting or changes in discharge, generalized malaise (just not feeling well overall) or a headache.
While these are all common signs, every woman’s labor experience is unique, and not all women will have the same symptoms.
Most women do have a few of these symptoms though, not just contractions. Sometimes seeing a few of the signs is often a good sign labor is coming!
While it is rally important to know the signs of labor, it is also essential to consult with a healthcare provider (your doctor or your midwife) to confirm if labor has truly started.
Don’t miss my super helpful post all about the signs of labor. Great info for pregnancy!
It is really common for you, at week 38 to think that labor starts, but sometimes it stops again — false labor (sometimes also called Braxton Hicks contractions). Labor can stop and start before it begins to actively dilate your cervix and push baby into the birth canal.
Remember that there are a few stages of labor:
- Early labor where your body is just getting ready to go into “real labor” (this is up til’ 4-6 cm)
- Active labor takes over, contractions are more painful and frequent (sometimes accompanied by things like bloody show) and this gets you to 10 cm
- Then there is the pushing phase
- and the delivery of the baby and the placenta phase.
And hopefully you’ll meet your baby soon!
But, you’ll feel a WHOLE lot better if you’re prepared before delivery. Come join me in The Online Prenatal Class for Couples where we aim to get BOTH of you prepared in just a few hours! You still have time to get it done. I am here for you!
And, if you’re not quite sure you’re ready for that whole thing (but seriously, what are you waiting for?) check out my free prenatal class. It’s your first step toward getting in the driver’s seat of your birth.
- About the Author
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A nurse since 1997, she has worked in various fields including pediatrics, geriatrics & hospice. She has 20 years of labor and delivery experience in the San Jose, CA and Phoenix, AZ areas.
As an evidence-based prenatal educator Hilary has delivered thousands of babies and has educated hundreds of thousands of parents from a diverse patient population to help them have a confident birth.
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