Constipation during pregnancy is the most common problem among women. Some women also there who don’t face during pregnancy constipation. It is completely normal. Some women’s body strength can cope with the hormonal changes very well. They enjoy the entire pregnancy without constipation and other digestive discomforts.
No worries! There is a connection between constipation and pregnancy – but solutions are also there. The chances of having constipation also increase as the pregnancy progresses. Some women face constipation early in pregnancy, but others get constipated later. Here in the article, you will get the best tips to deal with constipation during pregnancy.
What is Constipation During Pregnancy?
If you are struggling to poop or have bowel movements that means you are facing constipation pragnancy problem. Many women face constipation during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that support pregnancy. The changes occur in the first trimester, which is why women start having constipation from the first trimester.
Some women face constipation during the third trimester when the fetus gets heavier and puts pressure on the bowel. Constipation can occur in any trimester, first, second, or third, which can differ from woman to woman. Even you may have to face constipation up to three months after delivering the baby.
What Causes Constipation in Pregnancy?
The causes of constipation may differ according to the stage of the pregnancy. Here I have mentioned the most common causes to have constipation during pregnancy:
Progesterone Hormone
A woman’s body starts to produce more progesterone hormone during pregnancy. The hormone relaxes the intestines or bowel, so they don’t work as hard to squeeze waste throughout the body. Due to the slowdown, your body starts to take more time to absorb nutrients and water from the food you eat. The longer the food remains in the bowel, the more time the large intestine has to absorb moisture, and the waste becomes too hard to poop.
Growing Fetus
The growing fetus can put pressure on your bowel and make it harder for waste to move out of your body.
Prenatal Vitamins
The iron that is included in the prenatal vitamins helps the pregnant woman’s body produce more blood required to circulate oxygen throughout her and the baby’s body. But the excess amount of iron can make it harder for the bacteria in the bowel to break down the food you eat. If you are not taking efficient water to soften the waste stuck in your bowel. That is why you may suffer constipation during pregnancy.
Your Lifestyle
Your diet, your water intake, and your pregnancy exercise routine play an important role in making you constipated. So, if you are not getting a healthy diet and efficient water, you have more chances of constipation during early pregnancy. Following an exercise routine like walking etc., may help you to avoid constipation during pregnancy and after delivery also.
What is Immediate Constipation Relief During Pregnancy Home Remedies?
You don’t control the hormonal changes, but there are a few that you can do, not to get constipated throughout pregnancy.
Eating Fiber-Rich Foods
Pregnant women must eat 25 to 30 grams of fiber-rich foods daily. The fiber-rich foods help to make stool soft so you can easily pass. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of efficient fiber to avoid constipation during pregnancy. Whole grains, beans, peas, and lentils also contain a good amount of fiber. You can pick your favorites and make the healthiest plate to avoid digestion problems.
Having An Efficient Water Intake
Watch your water intake, as you must take at least 8 to 12 cups daily. Eight glasses of water are the minimum requirement for a pregnant woman. If you take more water, it will support your pregnancy positively and also helps you to soften your stool to pass. If you can’t able to consume an efficient amount of the water, you can also try other drinks to fulfill your needs, such as coconut water, low-fat milk, smoothies, and juices without added sugar.
Doing Exercise During Pregnancy
Exercise during pregnancy helps you a lot to fight against constipation. However, it will be difficult for you to exercise regularly, but at least when you feel well, you should do light exercises to avoid constipation during pregnancy. Twenty minutes of walking is the best option for you, or you can ask your healthcare provider about safe exercises during pregnancy.
Changing Prenatal Vitamins
It is necessary to take iron while pregnant, but you can try different brands of prenatal vitamins that your body can digest easily. You can discuss with your healthcare provider about suggesting another brand of iron or another vitamin with less iron.
Can Medication Help a Pregnant Woman Deal With Constipation?
If you are on a high fiber-rich diet but are facing constipation in pregnancy, the best option is to go for medication. Your healthcare provider may suggest laxatives for constipation or supplements. Don’t try any medication without not concern of your midwife. All laxatives are not safe during pregnancy. Laxatives can make you dehydrated and also imbalance your electrolytes. This is why it is important to take safe laxatives during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions – Constipation During Pregnancy
To find the crisp and short answer to your query about constipation during pregnancy. Read the answers to the most asked questions regarding constipation and pregnancy:
Can constipation hurt the baby during pregnancy?
No worries, as constipation do not hurt your baby. It only creates discomfort for the mother.
What month does constipation start in pregnancy?
Constipation starts as early as the hormone levels rise around the early months of the pregnancy.
Why do you get so constipated during pregnancy?
An increased hormone level causes relaxation of your body muscles like intestines that slow your digestion systems. As a result, you get constipated.
How can I relieve constipation during pregnancy?
Efficient water intake, a fiber-rich diet, and pregnancy exercise can help you fight against constipation.
What helps with constipation during the second trimester?
Now, you have to increase your water intake and fiber foods. Go moving to deal with constipation during pregnancy.
When is pregnancy constipation serious?
If you have severe constipation that’s accompanied by abdominal pain, alternates with diarrhea, or passes mucus or blood, you immediately need to consult with your healthcare provider.