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Abstract

Diarrhea during pregnancy is a significant clinical concern, with potential implications for both maternal and fetal health. It is characterized by the frequent passage of loose or watery stools and may arise from various causes, including infections (bacterial, viral, or parasitic), dietary changes, hormonal fluctuations, pre-existing gastrointestinal disorders, and medication side effects. Pregnant women are more susceptible to certain infections due to immune system modulation, and their nutritional needs make gastrointestinal health particularly crucial. Diarrhea can range from mild, self-limiting episodes to severe conditions that risk dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and preterm labor, thus necessitating prompt identification and management. This review explores the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies for diarrhea during pregnancy. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between infectious and non-infectious causes to avoid the unnecessary use of antibiotics, which may disrupt gut microbiota and impact pregnancy outcomes. Nutritional support and hydration are vital in managing diarrhea, while pharmacologic interventions are limited due to safety concerns in pregnancy. Preventive measures include proper hygiene, safe food practices, and prenatal care with attention to gastrointestinal symptoms. The review also addresses complications, such as the risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and highlights gaps in research on the long-term effects of diarrhea during pregnancy. Finally, it calls for further studies to establish evidence-based guidelines for the safe treatment of diarrhea in pregnant women.