a little TMI - stomach issues

GenRN45

So, I've spent the majority of my 20 weeks in a perpetual state of constipation. Normal, I know. I've come to accept it, and eat my prunes with pride, and have gotten to the point where if I can go without straining every other day, i'm doing something right.

The past few days, I've been getting really bad intestinal cramps, immediately followed by needing to go to the bathroom. And multiple times a day. Sometimes really loose, sometimes not, but I'm actually pooping like 4-5 times a day.

And the cramps are bad. They're not uterine, i'm sure of that - although when they first start, I'm never quite sure and always have a moment or two where I worry before I know. Yesterday i was at work when it started and actually got doubled over from a cramp/gas pain double header, in the middle of the hallway. A patient had to ask me if I was okay.

Anyway - what I want to know is, is this normal? Is this another pregnancy thing people don't talk about? I drink a ton of water, so i'm not TOO worried about getting dehydrated.

Thanks ladies!

crystalgirl

I don't remember having anything like that, and the fact that no one else has responded makes me think it's not a common pregnancy thing.  I don't remember hearing about it, either.

I'd definitely talk to your doc about it.  Maybe you have a virus, or maybe there's something else going on.

Sorry you're feeling bad!