What causes pregnant women to produce excess gas?

looney_tunes

Amongst other things, increased progesterone slows the digestive process by relaxing the muscles of the intestinal walls, and can lead to increased gas. http://www.babycenter.com.au/pregnancy/antenatalhealth/physicalhealth/windandbloating/ Dec 20 08, 4:55 AM

zbeckabee

During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone softens and smoothes body tissues including the digestive tract. This slows down the digestive process so that more nutrients can be extracted from the food; a cause of constipation during pregnancy. Because the enzymes and bacteria have more time to break down the food in the digestive system, there is increased fermentation and more gas is produced leaving you flatulent, burping and bloated. Progesterone's effect on the digestive system is why many women feel bloated during their menstrual period. As your pregnancy progresses the uterus will compress the digestive tract, further slowing digestion, creating more gas and increasing the feeling of bloating and heartburn. http://www.babypartner.com/guides/health-and-fitness/common-complaints/flatulence-and-belching.php Dec 20 08, 6:29 AM