What causes it?
Tommy’s says causes include hormone changes, a tummy bug or food poisoning. Rarely, it’s caused by an infection called listeria, which can be dangerous in pregnancy.
What can help
Drink plenty of fluids so you don’t get dehydrated (NHS 111 can advise). Tommy’s says loperamide (Imodium) isn’t usually recommended in pregnancy, so don’t take it without speaking to your midwife or doctor first. Ask a pharmacist before taking any other medicine for it.
When to get help
Contact your midwife, GP or NHS 111 if you have diarrhoea with a high temperature of 38C or above, aches and pains, chills or sickness, because this can be a sign of listeria.
The NHS says to call NHS 111 if you or your child keep being sick and cannot keep fluids down, or if vomiting lasts more than 2 days or diarrhoea lasts more than 7 days. Because you’re pregnant, NHS 111 can advise you sooner if you’re unsure.
If you’re worried, or it doesn’t settle, speak to your midwife or GP. For tummy pain, see cramps in pregnancy.
Food safety
Tommy’s says diarrhoea can be caused by food poisoning, so it’s worth following the NHS list of foods to avoid (linked below).
Questions people ask
Could it be listeria?
Tommy’s says to get checked if you have diarrhoea with a temperature of 38C or above, aches, chills or sickness.
Read next
Sources: Tommy’s: common health problems in pregnancy; NHS: food poisoning; NHS: pregnancy symptoms you need to get help for; NHS: foods to avoid in pregnancy.
This is general information based on NHS and other UK guidance. Every body is different, so speak to your midwife or GP if you’re unsure about anything.