Constipation is a very common symptom during pregnancy. Some women experience constipation in the early stages of pregnancy.
Many women feel constipated during pregnancy as well as after delivery. Constipation in pregnant ladies often occurs because of irregular bowel movements. Treatment of constipation in pregnancy can be done by natural remedies.
In this article, we will explain to you the causes and treatments of constipation during pregnancy.
Constipation in pregnancy is a common problem. Nearly half of all pregnant women suffer from it. Constipation is the abdominal pain that makes you feel bloated, gassy, and uncomfortable. Pregnancy hormones and an enlarged uterus cause an uncomfortable situation. Constipation in pregnancy can be treated with many medications as well as home remedies. This can also lead to haemorrhoids.
The cause of constipation during pregnancy depends on the stage at which it occurs. The causes include-
Hormones
Constipation during early pregnancy occurs due to changes in the hormone levels. It causes the intestines to slow down the movements of stool through the bowel. This delay makes the stool hard and difficult to pass.
Prenatal vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are rich in Iron. Iron is crucial for pregnancy. Iron is a major cause of constipation as it hardens and blackens the stool.
Enlarging uterus:
In later pregnancy, the growing uterus can put pressure on the bowel. This makes it harder to move stool through the intestines.
Constipation in pregnant ladies starts as early as progesterone levels rise. This generally happens around the second to the third month of pregnancy. It can worsen with the progression of pregnancy. Some women also experience postpartum constipation and bloating.
Constipation in pregnant ladies won’t be a problem for the baby. For women, constipation will cause discomfort. Constipation in pregnancycan cause side effects like haemorrhoids, rectal bleeding, and rectal fissures.
You need to take some steps to get rid of constipation in pregnancy. Making a few lifestyle changes can help you in the treatment of constipation in pregnancy.
High fiber diet
Consuming 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day helps to ensure bulkier stools that are easier to pass. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, prunes, and bran are high in fiber.
Drinking more fluids:
Drinking plenty of fluids is a must with a high fiber diet. It ensures softer stools. Drink 10to 12 cups of fluids each day. Plenty of liquids help to eliminate the waste and relieve constipation in pregnancy.
Exercise:
If you are inactive, you have a greater chance of constipation. Walking and other exercises will help the intestines work by stimulating your vowels. Take suggestions from your doctor before exercising.
Medications:
You can treat constipation in pregnancy with medicines. One can use Bulk-forming agents, Stool softeners, or laxatives as suggested by the doctors. These medicines can relieve constipation in pregnancy.
Reduce intake of iron supplements:
To overcome constipation in pregnancy you may reduce iron supplements from your diet. Use iron-rich foods instead of iron supplements. Take smaller doses of iron throughout the day rather than taking all at once.
Reduce calcium intake:
To get rid of constipation in pregnancy reduce calcium supplement intake. Too much calcium can cause constipation. If foods like dairy are increasing constipation in pregnancy, then reduce their intake.
A point to remember- Continued use of laxatives can cause the bowel to forget how to push stool. Don't use any medications without the doctor's suggestion. .- HERA
Natural home remedies for constipation in pregnancy can prove to be very beneficial. Home remedies may include-
Lemon
Lemon is great for digestion. It helps to flush out the toxins and other undigested foods. If you add lemon to a warm glass of water it stimulates the sense of smell and induces bowel contractions. It will help to pass stool.
Citrus fruit
Citrus fruits like oranges have high fiber content and vitamin C. Eating oranges daily is one of the best remedies for constipation in pregnant ladies. Grapes also have high fiber content and can treat constipation.
Prune Juice
Prune juice is one of the effective cures of constipation during pregnancy. You can take this juice around 5 times a day to soften the stool.
Ispagula Husks
You can take Isabgol for relieving constipation in pregnancy. If you choose to take Isabgol then you need to drink at least 10 glasses of water every day. This cure should be used only if prescribed by the doctor.
Flaxseed
Flaxseeds are full of dietary fiber. It adds roughage to your diet and softens the stool. You have to supplement it with around 10 glasses of water.
Acupressure
Acupressure is quite effective in treating constipation. The correct pressure point in the center of the abdomen is 5cm below the navel. Gently pressing the point around 30 times daily helps to relieve constipation.
HERA pro tip- Some pregnant women are sensitive to smell. If the concentrated prune juice smells too strong to drink dilute it with little water. Add a slice of lemon juice to enhance the taste..- HERA
The Bottom line
Constipation in pregnancy is a very common problem. Mostly, Women experience constipation in the early phase of pregnancy. Constipation in pregnancy occurs due to changes in hormone level and enlarged uterus. Constipation is not a serious condition and it can be treated by making some lifestyle changes.