The normal functioning of the human digestive system results in the formation of fecal matter. Feces are expelled from the body through the anus. When the body is functioning normally, the feces tend to be solid and well formed. The foul odor associated with feces also tends to be diminished or virtually absent with well formed feces. However, when the digestive system is not functioning properly, the feces can appear unformed or loose. This condition may be accompanied by gas and a foul odor. This is a symptom of an incomplete digestive process. In severe cases, the feces may appear to be in liquid form accompanied by gas and gripes.
This condition is known as diarrhea. Diarrhea can also be uncontrolled and requires a person suffering from the condition to be near a toilet at all times.
During pregnancy, it is not uncommon for a woman's digestive system to behave in an unpredictable and oversensitive manner.
Women routinely report digestive distress that may present itself in the form of constipation or diarrhea. The progression of pregnancy is divided into three periods, the middle one being the second trimester. The second trimester is the 3rd to 6th month of pregnancy. Diarrhea is a common complaint among pregnant women and it is perfectly normal for a woman to experience this uncomfortable situation.
Diarrhea during pregnancy in the 2nd trimester is a relatively less common side effect of pregnancy. First trimester diarrhea tends to affect many mothers but by the second trimester, the body becomes used to the pregnancy and the various hormones associated with it. However, diarrhea during pregnancy in the 2nd trimester is not a cause for concern unless some other symptoms are present. It is also a matter of concern if a particular food has triggered off the diarrhea attack because this could link it to a digestive infection. If diarrhea during pregnancy is accompanied by body ache and fever, it is likely that there is an infection affecting the mother. This condition should be reported to the attending doctor immediately so that any relevant tests can be conducted and the condition can be dealt with effectively. A continuous infection in a pregnant mother can affect the fetus adversely.
When a woman is affected by diarrhea during the 2nd trimester, she should try to eat light and healthy foods and attempt smaller meals to give her digestive system the chance to deal with the food properly.
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