Ulcerative colitis affects approximately 500,000 people in the US -- most of whom are between the ages of 15 and 35. There is no known cure for the painful and unpredictable disease, although the symptoms can be managed with medication. Fortunately, however, ulcerative colitis does not appear to influence a woman's ability carry a healthy pregnancy to full term. While prenatal vitamins are important for all pregnant women, they are particularly important when you have ulcerative colitis.
About Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes sores along the lining of the large intestines and rectum. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis include diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, bloody stools, abdominal cramps, loss of appetite, nausea and nutrient deficiency. While the cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, researchers are fairly sure that the condition is not caused by stress or food allergies.
Pregnancy and Colitis
Women with ulcerative colitis who are in remission when they become pregnant typically experience a worsening of their symptoms during the pregnancy. Fortunately, most of the medications used to treat ulcerative colitis are safe for use during pregnancy. Additionally, ulcerative colitis does not increase your risk of stillbirth or a preterm delivery.
Prenatal Vitamins
Since ulcerative colitis often results in anemia and other vitamin and mineral deficiencies, women with irritable bowel disease should work with their gastroenterologist and obstetrician throughout their entire pregnancy to ensure proper nutrition for themselves and their developing child. Over-the-counter prenatal vitamins may not provide a sufficient dose of vitamins to compensate for what is lost with the poor intestinal absorption brought on by colitis.
Considerations
Good nutrition is always important, but during your pregnancy it is essential for the well-being of you and your child. Once you and your obstetrician have selected an appropriate prenatal vitamin or vitamins, be solicitous about taking them daily. Particularly important during the first trimester is a vitamin called folic acid which helps to prevent neural tube defects. Adequate iron intake is also critical for pregnant women with ulcerative colitis.
