How to Relieve Gas and Bloating During Pregnancy

“Bloating and gas in pregnancy is the result of increased levels of progesterone, which cause digestion to be slower than normal,” explains Katie Rustici, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn with Intermountain Health in Denver. “This can cause uncomfortable GI [gastrointestinal] changes, like bloating, gassiness, and constipation.”

These symptoms can be a very early symptom of pregnancy, says Rustici, and they may linger until the baby arrives.

As pregnancy continues, your expanding uterus can also put pressure on your intestines, which can result in an uptick in gas and bloating, explains Michael Green, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn in Lake Arrowhead, California.

How to Relieve Gas and Bloating During Pregnancy

Certain strategies can help you find relief, or help prevent gas and bloating in the first place.

Drink Plenty of Water

“Stay hydrated to help prevent constipation, which can exacerbate bloating,” Green says. Skip carbonated drinks like soda or sparkling water, which can cause more gas and bloating. Instead, drink water, infused water, or unsweetened decaffeinated tea.

Choose Foods Carefully

A fiber-rich diet can be helpful, Rustici says, as can sticking with smaller meals. Both Green and Rustici recommend avoiding foods known to cause gas, such as:

• Beans
• Cabbage
• Simple carbs
• Fried or fatty foods

Exercise

“Regular, gentle exercise can also aid digestion and alleviate bloating and gas,” Green says. Swimming, yoga, walking, and prenatal exercise classes are all typically good options for exercise while pregnant.

Take a Probiotic

“There are also probiotic-rich foods or supplements you can consider incorporating to support a healthy gut microbiome,” Green says. These include yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and tempeh. Probiotics are helpful for GI health in general and are safe during pregnancy, says Rustici.

Try a Pregnancy-Safe OTC Medication

Some over-the-counter remedies for gas and bloating may be acceptable during pregnancy. “Stool softeners like Colace are safe and can help with bloating associated with constipation,” says Rustici. She also notes that Gas-X (simethicone) is safe to take while pregnant and can ease gas pain. But check with your provider before using anything.

Green adds that dietary fiber supplements and aspirin-free and aluminum-free antacids can be helpful—but be sure to run their use by your provider first, too. “Avoid any aspirin-containing antacids, laxatives, and herbal supplements without discussing them first with your healthcare provider,” Green says.

When to Call Your Provider

Gas can be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be too painful. Reach out to your provider if you notice severe abdominal pain, especially if you also have a fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting, says Rustici. Along with that, call if you have persistent vomiting, blood in your stool, or significant changes in bowel habits, Green says.

You May Also Like:

• What’s Safe During Pregnancy: A Guide to Food and Drink
• How to Ease Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy
• What Causes Stretch Marks During Pregnancy