Get relief from constipation during pregnancy
Get relief from constipation during pregnancy
Constipation is one of the most common problems you face during pregnancy. Many women experience difficulty having a bowel movement and have irregular bowel movements, sometimes just three times in a week. While this does not harm the baby directly, it will make your life extremely uncomfortable. You may dread going to the toilet and this increased stress may affect your baby.
You don’t have to suffer in silence. Constipation may be a common problem during pregnancy, but it is not unavoidable or untreatable. You can easily prevent constipation and if you do have it, you can overcome it with the right lifestyle and laxatives.
To prevent constipation, you must know its cause.
Causes of constipation during pregnancy Hormone influence
There is an increase in the production of hormone progesterone when you are pregnant. This hormone relaxes your bowel. Relaxed intestines do not squeeze the waste down through to the rectum efficiently. The longer the waste stays in the intestine, the more water is absorbed from it making it drier and harder. This makes you constipated and you will find it harder to go.
Iron in your supplements
During pregnancy you will be taking regular supplements. The iron in the supplements will increase your chances of getting constipated.
Diet
What you eat and drink will have a direct effect on your bowel movement. When you are pregnant, especially during the initial period, the thought of food may be revolting and you may not eat properly. When you don’t eat enough fibre and don’t drink enough fluids you will be constipated.
In addition, if you are usually prone to constipation, pregnancy may make it harder.
Whether you suffer from constipation generally or whether you’ve developed constipation during pregnancy, there are a few simple things you can do to overcome it. If you adopt these changes, you will be able to prevent future episodes as well.
How to prevent/ cure constipation
Eat plenty of fibre
Include fibre rich foods in your diet. Have fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables every day. Fibre retains moisture and softens stool making it easier to pass them.
Drink plenty of water
Constipation happens when your stool dries and becomes hard. Drink plenty of water and other fluids to keep your stool soft.
Exercise
You should stay active always, especially when you are pregnant. 20 to 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least three times a week is essential to keep your body in good condition. Staying active helps all your organ systems work well. This includes your intestine as well. So, check with your doctor and start exercising regularly. This will help your body and bowel movements better.
Change supplements
If you have constipation even after all these changes, talk to your doctor. A change of supplements with lesser iron may help you.
Laxatives
Laxatives and fibre supplements are the last resort. When all other options fail to relieve your constipation, your doctor will prescribe these to soften stools. Do not take them on your own because some may be harmful for the baby. Consult your doctor and get the right prescription for safe relief.
Constipation is just one of the problems you may face during pregnancy. We can help you through this stage and make your journey to motherhood a beautiful one. Being one of the best and most sought after maternity hospitals, we offer the most advanced obstetric care to keep you and your baby healthy. Consult our expert obstetrician for the best pre-natal care, painless delivery and post-natal care.