Ulcerative colitis is one of the two types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the large intestine and rectum, the other being Crohn's disease. It can lead to symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and fatigue, and can often be confused with other digestive disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Unfortunately, ulcerative colitis can occur in anyone, including pregnant women. But that does not mean you do not plan for a family. With proper management and treatment, women can experience a smooth pregnancy and give birth to a healthy child. To ensure the same, here's what a doctor recommends you know.
How Common Is Ulcerative Colitis In Pregnant Women?
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon and therefore is unrelated to pregnancy. This means that the digestive disorder can occur anytime before, during, or after pregnancy. But while pregnancy does not cause ulcerative colitis, it can worsen symptoms, which is why consultations with a doctor and proper management are crucial.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Neerja Goel, Senior Gynaecologist, Shardacare - Healthcity, Greater Noida, said that ulcerative colitis is relatively rare during pregnancy; however, it may increase the risks of complications, such as preterm delivery, low birth weight, and miscarriage, particularly when the condition is active.
A study published in The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research found that pregnant women with active IBD were more likely to experience shorter pregnancy duration and complications including preterm births, low birth weight, and smaller babies. Additionally, 27% of children had health or developmental issues.
Warning Signs Of Ulcerative Colitis During Pregnancy
It is important to catch symptoms of ulcerative colitis early on to ensure timely management and proper treatment, especially at a critical time like pregnancy. Some of the key warning signs include:
- Increased diarrhoea
- Abdominal discomfort or cramping
- Fatigue
- Rectal bleeding
- Unintentional weight loss
- Increased urgency for bowel movements
- Anaemia, or low haemoglobin or Red Blood Cell (RBC) levels
How Pregnant Women Can Manage Ulcerative Colitis
When it comes to managing ulcerative colitis during pregnancy, you can consider a combination of medications (taken under doctor’s supervision), a healthy diet, and counselling.
Dr Goel recommended eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, and a variety of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables. She further advised avoiding trigger foods, such as those that are high in fat, spices, and highly processed. One also needs to drink plenty of water and take necessary prenatal vitamins as prescribed by a doctor.
Are Ulcerative Colitis Medications Safe To Take During Pregnancy?
“Not every medicine for ulcerative colitis is safe during pregnancy,” said Dr Goel, adding that a thorough risk-benefit analysis is necessary for some. Some medications, like immunosuppressants or biologics, and others like aminosalicylates (e.g., mesalamine), are generally safe, she added.
According to Medical News Today, medications like corticosteroids and anti-TNF agents do not cause developmental abnormalities or pregnancy complications.
Conclusion
Ulcerative colitis during pregnancy is rare, but when it occurs, it is crucial to detect it early and manage it effectively. Consult a doctor on what medications you can and should not take. Additionally, take proper advice on the foods you should and should not eat during an active disease. Ensure that you do not overlook the signs and connect with a doctor as soon as you notice persistent symptoms.