Pregnancy can be a tough time for the digestive tract – the hormonal changes and increased pressure on the bowels from your growing baby puts you at higher risk of constipation, loose stool, abdominal pain and increased bloating. IBS may make this more pronounced. Mild symptoms will not put you or your growing baby at increased risk, but it may feel uncomfortable. As always, you should take care to avoid any food you know brings on IBS symptoms. Keeping well-hydrated is key, and gentle exercise can help regulate bowel movements and reduce stress. If you feel you need medication, there are options. One of our pharmacists will go through what’s safe. Pregnancy is a time of great change, and anxiety plays a part for most women. IBS sufferers will know that stress and anxiety can make IBS symptoms worse. So it’s important to keep yourself protected. Think of techniques that have helped in the past and start them before any flare-up. Or consider putting aside 20 minutes a day for something you find relaxing – reading, music, gentle yoga or putting a mindfulness podcast on.

Colpermin is a highly regarded name in the world of gastrointestinal health, known for its exceptional efficacy in addressing the diverse symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is available without a prescription, and suitable for adults and children aged 15 and above who have been diagnosed with IBS by their doctor. The key ingredient in Colpermin is peppermint oil, which is derived from the leaves of Mentha x piperita. Peppermint oil is a natural source of therapeutic compounds, with menthol being the most prominent one. Menthol is known for its remarkable ability to soothe the gastrointestinal tract by targeting muscle relaxation. By relaxing the muscles of the digestive system, Colpermin aims to alleviate the spasms and discomfort that are commonly associated with IBS. With its well-established track record and natural ingredients, Colpermin has emerged as a trusted and safe choice for those seeking relief from the symptoms of IBS.

Esomeprazole is a medication used to treat heartburn and stomach ulcers. It is also used to protect the stomach lining from medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac. Esomeprazole works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Tablets are the most common formulation, and small amounts can be purchased from pharmacies, shops, and supermarkets.

Glycerin suppositories are a form of laxative, used to help relieve constipation. Laxatives come in different forms, there are tablets (Senna), liquids (Lactulose), sachets (Movicol), and suppositories. Suppositories are not to be swallowed and are placed up the back passage where they work locally to help relieve constipation.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. It causes abdominal discomfort or pain along with bloating or changes to the bowel habits. In IBS, opening the bowels typically relieves abdominal pain. Certain symptoms like bloating, trapped wind and abdominal cramps can prove embarrassing, particularly if you have diarrhoea or need to rush to the loo several times a day. Many suffer in silence, reluctant to go to their doctor or pharmacist to discuss such personal issues. There is no specific test to confirm IBS. Doctors make a firm diagnosis with defined criteria of symptoms, persisting for at least 6 months, and in the absence of other digestive conditions that could account for symptoms. IBS is a common condition that isn’t life-threatening and that doesn’t put you at higher risk of serious conditions like bowel cancer. But it’s a long-term condition that can be debilitating and cause a significant impact on work, study, enjoyable social activities and daily tasks. It can take its toll on your mood and quality of life. Symptoms may be continuous or intermittent, and this chronic waxing-and-waning picture can last for years. It’s very common, with 1 to 2 people in every 10 suffering in the UK, and that’s likely to be an underestimate, as many don’t seek medical help. Symptoms usually start when people are in their 20s and 30s and it’s more often found in women.

Imodium is a branded version of the medication loperamide, which is used to treat diarrhoea. Loperamide works by slowing down the natural muscle contractions (peristalsis) that occur in the intestines. This in turn gives your body more time to absorb fluid and electrolytes. Imodium can come in different formulations such as capsules, tablets, liquid, and "instant melts" that dissolve on the tongue. The "dual action relief" versions also contain the medication simeticone, which helps relieve trapped wind.

Nexium Control, also known by the active ingredient Esomeprazole, treats heartburn and stomach ulcers. It works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. It is also used to protect your stomach lining from medications like anti-inflammatories and steroids. Esomeprazole can come in many different formulations; however, tablets are the most common.

Peppermint oil is the natural extract from peppermint leaves. It may be classified as a supplement or a medicine, depending on licensing. As a medicine, it can be used to treat cramps associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Taken as a supplement or aromatherapy, it may be used to relieve nausea, period pains (dysmenorrhoea), indigestion (acid reflux) or stress, although this has not been fully studied. Peppermint teabags are likely to be less effective, as the content of peppermint oil varies between brands and may be too low to provide relief.

If you have not heard of the term PPIs, then you may have heard of some common examples, such as omeprazole, esomeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole or rabeprazole. They are a class of medication used to treat heartburn and as protection if you are at an increased risk of stomach ulcers. They work by reducing the amount of stomach acid that your body produces. PPIs are usually taken by mouth as a tablet, capsule or liquid, however in hospital you may receive a one as an injection. Most PPIs require a prescription, but you can purchase esomeprazole from your pharmacy without a prescription after talking to a pharmacist. The most commonly seen of these is Nexium.

All Anusol products are used to treat haemorrhoids but vary in their formulations. Both Anusol cream and ointment contain the same active ingredients (zinc oxide, balsam of Peru, bismuth oxide). Here we'll take you through the differences so you can choose an option that suits you. Similar products include Germoloids for piles.

Anusol is a medication used in the treatment of haemorrhoids (also known as piles) and works to soothe the symptoms of discomfort and itchiness. It comes in three formulations which are cream, ointment and suppositories. Anusol also comes in a formulation containing hydrocortisone, a mild steroid with anti-inflammatory properties. The hydrocortisone-containing versions are named Anusol Plus HC and Anusol Soothing Relief.

Antacids are a type of medication used to relieve indigestion in adults and children, and are best known as brands such as Gaviscon, Rennie, and Maalox. They usually come in chewable tablets or as a liquid, and are available to buy without a prescription. Some antacid products contain other active ingredients, such as sodium alginate (a raft-forming agent that relieves heartburn. Examples of antacids include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, aluminium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, and potassium bicarbonate.