What Causes Constipation during Pregnancy?

It is not very common to have constipation during early pregnancy months. Constipation during pregnancy occurs due to increased pressure on the intestines. The increased pressure is because of the growing uterus. Another reason is the fluctuating hormones during pregnancies. Some hormones can make the intestines relax, which can result in constipation. When the intestinal muscles are relaxed, the digested food cannot move through the colon efficiently. Pregnant women also often require iron supplements, which can also cause constipation.

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Treatment

For constipation relief, you can take several measures. Eat a diet high in fiber through foods like whole grains, vegetables, and fresh fruits. Whole grain pasta, cereal, and bread along with beans, lentils, prunes, figs, apples, berries and bananas are good options for more fiber intake. Aim to eat at least 25 gm of fiber daily if not more. The amount of fiber you eat should be just right . Pregnant women can safely eat up to 30 gm of fiber every day. You can consult with your doctor to find the optimum quantity for you as per your pregnancy stage. But with increased fiber intake, you also need more fluid consumption. In addition to water, you can add fruit or vegetable juices to your daily diet. During pregnancies, drink at least 8-10 glasses of water (12-ounces of water in each glass). Eat smaller meals. Consuming six lighter meals can provide relief from constipation. Smaller meals can help the intestines digest and move food efficiently even when the muscles may be relaxed due to pregnancy. Movement is also necessary to treat constipation. Consult with your doctor about what exercises you can safely do during pregnancy. Women’s needs during pregnancy can differ in terms of physical activities. But for the most part, lighter exercises such as walking are good. You can also swim or try yoga poses that are safe to do during pregnancies. If your constipation doesn’t get better with natural remedies , it is important to tell your doctor about it. Your doctor may prescribe medications that are safe to use for treating constipation during pregnancy.

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Is Constipation during Pregnancy a Cause for Worry?

Most pregnant women will experience constipation to some extent. It is not a serious condition that can harm you or your baby. But chronic constipation can be very uncomfortable to bear. More importantly, refrain from using OTC drugs to treat constipation when you are pregnant. Mineral oils and laxatives that can otherwise be helpful in treating constipation are dangerous to use during pregnancies.  If your constipation doesn’t get better with diet, you should check with your doctor to understand if it could a symptom of another problem. Also, if you force yourself to stimulate bowel movements, it can cause rectal bleeding or hemorrhoids. These problems can be painful and require treatment. To treat chronic constipation while you are pregnant, your doctor can prescribe you medicines. But even these medicines are not recommended for long-term usage.

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To prevent any complications while you are pregnant, maintain a healthy diet and proper exercise routine. Keep your doctor in the loop about any changes in your condition.

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