Is having a bowel movement common during delivery?
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Dr. Michael Roizen answered:With all the pushing that's going on, it's not surprising that about half of all women have a bowel movement during labor. While I surely understand why you'd be self-conscious about it, delivery teams are used to it; it's perfectly normal, so don't think another thing about it. One way to help minimize the chances that you will: a high-fiber diet with plenty of water will help keep your intestines clean.
Find out more about this book: YOU: Having a Baby: The Owner's Manual to a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy
With all the pushing that's going on, it's not surprising that about half of all women have a bowel movement during labor. While I surely understand why you'd be self-conscious about it, delivery teams are used to it; it's perfectly normal, so don't... More -
Paula Greer answered:When a mom is pushing effectively anything that is in the way is going to come out. It is not unusual to see a woman empty her bladder or bowels when she first starts to push. This is actually a good sign that she is using the right muscles and doing a great job of pushing. Keeping your bladder empty during labor and your bowels regular during the pregnancy will help prevent mom from experiencing some of these last minute evacuations but rest assured all of us who work labor and delivery are used to dealing with this. We work hard to keep mom clean and not let the visitors notice. We have tricks up our sleeve to protect mom’s privacy, limit her embarrassment and deal with any unusual odors. This is a time for praise of a job well done as this kind of pushing will bring that baby into the world and that is what all of us are waiting for.
When a mom is pushing effectively anything that is in the way is going to come out. It is not unusual to see a woman empty her bladder or bowels when she first starts to push. This is actually a good sign that she is using the right muscles and... More
