Activated charcoal in pregnancy

Activated charcoal in pregnancy-is it safe?

The effect of activated charcoal on pregnancy and child development has not been demonstrated. It is believed that it can be used safely if there are indications for it. However, it is important to note that it is used especially in the case of diarrhea, which can cause at least electrolyte disturbances in the pregnant woman. For this reason, if the mother-to-be is struggling with stomach problems, she should consult her doctor, as intravenous rehydration or replenishment of lost ions may be necessary. The cause of the emerging symptoms is also important. Diarrhea caused by Salmonella can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women.

Activated charcoal in pregnancy-when to use

Activated charcoal is most often reached for in cases of diarrhea. Its task is to absorb harmful substances, toxins or pathogens. It is not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, making it considered safe during pregnancy.  It should only be used in cases of mild discomfort, absence of signs of dehydration or other symptoms, among others. fever. This is because in such situations it is necessary to consult a doctor. Also, don’t forget about adequate hydration in  during diarrhea. Activated charcoal is worth having in the first-aid kit in case of travel, when there is a risk of the so-called “active carbon”. traveler’s diarrhea.

Read more: Diarrhea and pregnancy. Can diarrhea be a symptom of pregnancy and what to use for diarrhea in pregnancy?

Activated charcoal in pregnancy-application

Not everyone realizes that activated charcoal also has  other uses besides “treatment” during diarrhea. Filters in water pitchers or recently popular bottles are made using activated carbon. It is also found as an additive in toothpastes, which in recent years have begun to take on a black coloration because of it. Besides, carbon is also used in cosmetics. Manufacturers especially often use it in products designed for acne-prone skin.

What for diarrhea during pregnancy?

Diarrhea in pregnancy can have various causes. If it’s a one-time episode caused by a dietary error, there’s no need to worry. Particularly vulnerable to diarrhea are pregnant women whose older children attend nursery and kindergarten and are easily infected with rotavirus, for example. Sometimes the infection is so severe that it is necessary for the mother-to-be to visit the emergency room, to be properly hydrated, and sometimes to be treated in a pregnancy pathology unit.

Depending on the etiology, the treatment of diarrhea in pregnancy may vary. However, it is most often based on hydration and an easily digestible diet. If necessary, medications recommended by the doctor are used. Diarrhea at the end of III. trimester, appears most often as a symptom of impending labor. It does not require treatment, it is, among other things. The effect of hormones.