Changes in bowel habits during pregnancy and related factors

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study is to determine the changes in bowel habits and the associated factors that occur during pregnancy, thereby contributing to the existing literature.
METHODS: This descriptive study employed statistical methods and was conducted between June 1, 2022, and September 1, 2023, at a public hospital in Istanbul, involving 388 healthy pregnant women aged 18 to 45.
RESULTS: Before pregnancy, 90.6% of the participants reported having regular bowel habits. During pregnancy, 52.6% maintained regular bowel habits, while 47.4% experienced irregular bowel habits.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The impact of pregnancy on the anal sphincter and pelvic floor organs as gestation progresses is not yet fully understood. The role of healthcare providers is crucial in preventing and treating these conditions, as well as in mitigating their adverse effects on women’s quality of life post-pregnancy. It is evident that further research is needed in this area.