Increased bowel movements at 37 weeks pregnant are usually caused by hormonal changes and the baby’s pressure on the digestive system.
Understanding Why 37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements Occur
At 37 weeks pregnant, your body is preparing for labor, and many physical changes take place. One common but often overlooked symptom is increased bowel movements. This happens due to a combination of hormonal shifts and mechanical pressure from your growing baby.
The hormone progesterone, which relaxes smooth muscles throughout your body during pregnancy, initially slows down digestion. But as you near full term, levels fluctuate, sometimes speeding up bowel activity. Additionally, the baby’s head usually descends into the pelvis around this time, pressing against the rectum and intestines. This pressure can stimulate more frequent urges to have a bowel movement.
This increase is often a natural sign that your body is gearing up for labor. The intestines emptying more frequently may help clear the way for delivery. While it can be uncomfortable or inconvenient, it’s typically harmless.
How Hormones Influence Bowel Movements Late in Pregnancy
Hormones play a crucial role in digestive changes during pregnancy. Progesterone and relaxin are two key players here.
Progesterone initially slows down your gastrointestinal tract to allow greater nutrient absorption for your baby. This slowing often causes constipation earlier in pregnancy. However, as you approach 37 weeks, progesterone levels start to shift unpredictably. These fluctuations can lead to alternating patterns of constipation and increased bowel movements.
Relaxin helps soften ligaments and muscles in preparation for childbirth but can also affect the muscles in your intestines and rectum. This relaxing effect may increase intestinal motility late in pregnancy, contributing to more frequent bowel activity.
Beyond hormones, increased blood volume and fluid retention impact digestion by altering how fluids move through your intestines, sometimes causing looser stools or diarrhea.
The Role of Prostaglandins in Labor Preparation
Prostaglandins are compounds that help ripen the cervix and stimulate uterine contractions as labor approaches. Interestingly, they also influence intestinal contractions, which might explain why bowel movements increase near term.
Higher prostaglandin levels can lead to stronger intestinal muscle contractions (peristalsis), pushing stool through faster than usual. This process may trigger diarrhea-like symptoms or more urgent bowel movements just before labor begins.
Physical Pressure from Baby at 37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements
By week 37, the baby’s head typically settles lower into the pelvis—a process known as “lightening.” This shift places direct pressure on the rectum and lower colon.
This mechanical pressure stimulates nerve endings around the rectal area, increasing sensations of needing to go to the bathroom more frequently. It can also reduce space available for stool storage, leading to smaller but more frequent bowel movements.
Alongside this pressure on the bowels, some women experience increased pelvic discomfort or cramping during these late stages of pregnancy due to this crowding effect inside the abdomen.
Impact on Digestion and Nutrient Absorption
The compression of digestive organs at 37 weeks can slow down stomach emptying but speed up transit time through the colon due to rectal pressure. This imbalance may cause mild digestive upset like bloating or cramping alongside increased bowel frequency.
Despite these changes, nutrient absorption remains efficient because most nutrient uptake occurs earlier in digestion within the small intestine—less affected by pelvic pressure at this stage.
Dietary Factors That Influence Bowel Movements Near Term
Diet plays a significant role in managing bowel habits during late pregnancy. Many women increase their fiber intake intentionally or unintentionally when preparing for labor since fiber supports regularity.
However, certain foods can either exacerbate or ease increased bowel movements:
- High-fiber foods: Fruits (apples with skin), vegetables (broccoli), whole grains promote stool bulk.
- Dairy products: Some women develop lactose intolerance during pregnancy that can cause loose stools.
- Caffeine: Acts as a stimulant that speeds up intestinal motility.
- Hydration: Adequate water intake softens stool but excessive fluids combined with fiber may lead to looser stools.
Balancing these elements helps maintain comfort despite natural bodily changes.
Foods To Include And Avoid
To support healthy digestion without triggering excessive bowel movements:
| Recommended Foods | Avoid or Limit | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Oatmeal Berries Leafy greens Pumpkin seeds |
Spicy foods Caffeinated beverages Dairy if sensitive Fatty fried foods |
Promote gentle digestion Irritate digestive tract Lactose intolerance issues Cause indigestion & loose stools |
| Peppermint tea Nuts (in moderation) Whole grain bread Water & herbal teas |
Sugar alcohols (e.g., sorbitol) Sorbitol-rich candies Processed snacks Artificial sweeteners |
Soothe stomach lining Avoid excess bulk causing gas Avoid irritants & additives Avoid laxative effects |
| Papaya (ripe) Cucumbers with skin Lentils (well-cooked) Zucchini |
Excessive salt intake Sugar-heavy desserts Caffeine energy drinks Irritating acidic fruits (citrus) |
Aid digestion naturally Avoid water retention & bloating Avoid overstimulation of bowels Avoid acidity-related discomforts |
The Connection Between Labor Onset and Changes in Bowel Habits
Many women notice an uptick in bowel movements just before labor starts—sometimes referred to as “pre-labor diarrhea.” This phenomenon occurs because your body is clearing out waste to prepare for delivery.
The surge in prostaglandins mentioned earlier not only softens the cervix but also stimulates intestinal contractions that empty bowels rapidly. This cleansing mechanism reduces chances of having a full rectum during delivery—a practical biological adaptation.
While inconvenient or even alarming if unexpected, this change signals that labor might be imminent within hours or days.
Bowel Movement Patterns During Early Labor vs Late Pregnancy
Before labor begins:
- Bowel movements become more frequent and looser.
- You may experience cramping similar to menstrual pain.
- The urge may come suddenly without much warning.
- Nausea or mild diarrhea could accompany these changes.
During active labor:
- Bowels generally empty completely early on.
- The focus shifts from digestion to uterine contractions.
- You might not feel hunger or need bathroom breaks later into labor.
- Anesthesia or pain medication can alter normal patterns further.
Recognizing these patterns helps you understand what’s normal versus signs requiring medical attention.
Troubleshooting Uncomfortable Symptoms Related to Bowel Changes at 37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements
Increased frequency isn’t always pleasant; some women face discomfort such as abdominal cramping, urgency without relief after going to the bathroom, or even occasional diarrhea leading to dehydration risk.
Here are some practical tips:
- Mild abdominal cramps: Gentle walking or prenatal yoga can ease muscle tension.
- Bloating: Avoid gas-producing foods like beans or carbonated drinks temporarily.
- Urgency: Plan bathroom access ahead when going out; wear comfortable clothing.
- Mild diarrhea: Stay hydrated with electrolyte-rich fluids like coconut water or oral rehydration salts if needed.
- If symptoms worsen: Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice blood in stool, severe pain, fever, or dehydration signs.
Maintaining open communication with your prenatal team ensures safe monitoring of any unusual symptoms beyond typical increased bowel movements.
The Role of Prenatal Care Providers During This Stage of Pregnancy
Your obstetrician or midwife will routinely ask about any changes including bowel habits during late prenatal visits. They understand that “37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements” is common but must rule out infections like gastroenteritis or other complications such as preterm labor signs mimicking digestive upset.
If necessary:
- Your provider might perform abdominal exams checking for tenderness or unusual masses.
- Labs could include stool tests if infection is suspected.
- Your birth plan might adapt depending on symptom severity—for example scheduling induction if pre-labor diarrhea signals imminent delivery but you have other risk factors requiring closer management.
Trusting their expertise helps navigate this stage confidently while ensuring maternal-fetal safety remains top priority.
The Science Behind Intestinal Changes During Late Pregnancy Summarized in Data Form
| Factor Affecting Bowels | Description | EFFECT ON BOWEL MOVEMENTS |
|---|---|---|
| Progesterone Levels | Smooth muscle relaxant hormone fluctuates near term | Mildly increases motility leading to frequent stools |
| Baby’s Head Pressure | The fetal head descends into pelvis compressing rectum | Crowds colon space causing urgency and frequent urges |
| Prostaglandin Surge | Labor hormone stimulating uterine & intestinal contractions | Pushing stool faster resulting in loose stools/diarrhea |
| Dietary Fiber Intake | Nutrients affecting stool bulk and transit time | Adequate fiber promotes regularity; excessive causes loose stools |
| Laxative Effects from Caffeine & Fluids | Caffeine stimulates bowels; hydration softens stool consistency | Makes stools softer and increases frequency moderately |
| Pelvic Muscle Relaxation by Relaxin | Smooth muscle relaxation hormone increases late pregnancy | Eases passage of stool but may cause urgency due to weaker control muscles |
The Emotional Impact of Digestive Changes Near Delivery Time
Digestive discomfort combined with anticipation about childbirth creates emotional challenges for many expectant moms nearing 37 weeks pregnant increased bowel movements phase. Frequent trips to the bathroom disrupt sleep patterns and daily routines causing frustration or anxiety about timing labor correctly.
Understanding these symptoms are temporary physiological adjustments helps reduce stress levels significantly. Staying connected with support networks—partners, family members, doulas—can provide reassurance through this intense period before birth.
Mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises also help manage discomfort by calming nervous system responses linked with gastrointestinal upset during late pregnancy stages.
Key Takeaways: 37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements
➤ Hormonal changes can affect digestion and bowel habits.
➤ Increased pressure from the baby may speed up bowel movements.
➤ Hydration helps maintain regular and comfortable digestion.
➤ Dietary fiber intake supports healthy bowel function.
➤ Consult your doctor if bowel changes cause pain or severe issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do bowel movements increase at 37 weeks pregnant?
At 37 weeks pregnant, increased bowel movements are caused by hormonal changes and the baby pressing on the intestines. These factors stimulate intestinal activity, preparing your body for labor.
How do hormones affect bowel movements at 37 weeks pregnant?
Hormones like progesterone and relaxin fluctuate late in pregnancy, altering digestion. Progesterone’s changing levels can speed up bowel activity, while relaxin relaxes intestinal muscles, leading to more frequent bowel movements.
Is it normal to have more frequent bowel movements at 37 weeks pregnant?
Yes, it is normal. Increased bowel movements at this stage are a natural sign your body is getting ready for labor. Though sometimes uncomfortable, this change is typically harmless.
Can the baby’s position cause increased bowel movements at 37 weeks pregnant?
The baby’s head descending into the pelvis puts pressure on the rectum and intestines. This mechanical pressure can trigger more frequent urges to have a bowel movement as you approach labor.
When should I be concerned about increased bowel movements at 37 weeks pregnant?
Increased bowel movements are usually harmless near term. However, if you experience severe diarrhea, dehydration, or pain, contact your healthcare provider to rule out infections or other complications.
Conclusion – 37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements Explained Clearly
Increased bowel movements at 37 weeks pregnant result from an intricate dance between hormones like progesterone and prostaglandins combined with physical pressure from your baby’s descent into the pelvis. These factors stimulate intestinal activity causing more frequent urges that sometimes come with loose stools or mild cramping.
This change signals your body’s natural preparation for labor by clearing out waste efficiently before delivery day arrives. Adjusting diet carefully while staying hydrated helps manage symptoms comfortably without adding stress during this critical time frame.
If severe pain, bleeding, fever, dehydration signs occur alongside increased bowel frequency—seek medical advice promptly since these indicate complications rather than normal pregnancy progression.
Embracing this phase with knowledge empowers expectant mothers facing “37 Weeks Pregnant Increased Bowel Movements” so they remain confident knowing it’s part of their body’s amazing preparation for welcoming new life soon!