Inflammatory bowel diseases^(4,22)
(This medical condition is not specifically related to pregnancy or delivery.)

Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases consist of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and ulcerative proctitis. Crohn's disease may involve any part of the intestinal tract while ulcerative colitis is restricted to the colon. Ulcerative proctitis is a variant of ulcerative colitis, involving less than the last 30 cm of the colon.

The causes and mechanism of these disorders are poorly understood. However, there is a strong association with:

• Chronic infection
• Immune system problems
• Family history

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic and relapsing condition.

The most important common complaints

• Rectal bleeding or blood in stools
• Chronic diarrhea (frequent small stool)
• Colicky abdominal pain:
• Following meals in Crohn's disease
• Pain with bowel movements and sudden compelling urges to pass tools
• Fever
• Weight loss

If these symptoms are present, consult your health care professional immediately.