Constipation in Pregnancy: Causes and Research-Based Remedies
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
Pregnancy is a fascinating journey filled with many ups and downs. During this phase, one of the common hurdles encountered by women is constipation. In this article, we will delve into the causes of constipation during pregnancy. We will also discuss its risks, solutions backed by research, and how to avoid it for a more comfortable pregnancy. By acquainting yourself about this issue and knowing how to handle it, you can be equipped to ease your pregnancy journey.
Did You know?
Constipation is a state marked by few bowel movements, hard or clumpy stools, strain during bowel movements, and a feeling of not fully evacuating bowels after a bowel movement. It can be uneasy and trigger abdominal pain, bloating, and even serious problems if not treated.
A large number of pregnant women suffer from constipation. Some studies suggest that up to 72% of women may face it at some stage in their pregnancies. Hormone changes, pressure on the uterus, and iron tablets are some of the factors that cause constipation during pregnancy.
Several factors may cause constipation during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, iron tablets, not drinking enough water, diet habits, and poor physical activity are some of them.
A key reason for constipation in pregnancy is a rise in progesterone levels. Progesterone is a hormone that aids in keeping the lining of the uterus during pregnancy. Yet, it also relaxes the muscles in the gut, delaying the movement of food and waste products through the bowels. This delay can cause constipation.
As hinted earlier, the relaxing effect of higher progesterone on the gut muscles slows down transit times for food and waste products. Slowing down can make the stools become harder and drier, making them tougher to pass.
Iron supplements are crucial during prenatal care as they help stop anaemia in both mother and baby. Yet, iron can sometimes lead to constipation by slowing down the transit time in the gut even more. If you’re taking iron tablets and suffering from constipation, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Not drinking enough water can make constipation worse during pregnancy. Pregnant women need more fluids, and not having enough water can make stools hard and tough to pass. It’s key to have at least eight 12-ounce glasses of water each day to stay hydrated and boost healthy bowel movements.
A diet low in fiber or high in refined carbohydrates can lead to constipation during pregnancy. Eating lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other foods full of fiber may help stop constipation. It’s key to aim for at least 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily to stay regular and comfortable.
Physical activity plays an important part in boosting healthy digestion and stopping constipation. Pregnant women should aim for at least 20 minutes of gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, most days of the week, with approval from their healthcare provider.
Knowing the signs of constipation during pregnancy can help you detect the issue early. This will allow you to get help right away.
Constipation is recognized by having less than three bowel movements per week. If you see a big drop in the rate of your bowel movements, you might be having constipation.
Having a hard time passing stool and straining during bowel movements is another common sign of constipation. If you find yourself using excessive force to pass stool, it’s crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Dry, lumpy stools that are hard to pass can signify constipation. This can cause discomfort and even pain during bowel movements.
Another symptom of constipation is a feeling of not having fully emptied the bowels after a bowel movement. This feeling can stick even after passing the stool, leaving you feeling unhappy and uncomfortable.
Identifying constipation during pregnancy typically includes reviewing your medical past, discussing your symptoms, and ruling out other gut dilemmas.
Your healthcare provider will get a thorough medical history to better understand any factors that may be causing your constipation. They may also perform a hands-on examination to assess your abdomen and check for any signs of pain or tenderness.
By discussing your symptoms, like how often you have bowel movements, how solid your stools are, and any pain or trouble you experience when passing stool, your healthcare provider can figure out whether constipation is the problem.
It’s crucial to rule out other gut issues that could mimic constipation. Your healthcare provider may perform extra tests or examinations to ensure that your constipation isn’t a sign of a more serious deeper issue.
If not treated, constipation during pregnancy can cause a range of problems for both the mom and the baby. These include the following.
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are puffy veins in and around the anus and rectum. Strain during bowel movements due to constipation can cause or make hemorrhoids worse, causing pain, itching, and discomfort.
Constant strain during bowel movements can also lead to small tears in the lining of the anus, known as anal fissures. Anal fissures can cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort during and after bowel movements.
In serious cases of constipation, fecal impaction might happen, where hard and dry stools get stuck in the rectum, making it tough to pass. In some cases, manual removal of impacted stool may be needed.
Untreated constipation can potentially cause issues for the baby, like low birth weight or early birth. It’s key to manage constipation during pregnancy with guidance from your healthcare provider to ensure the good health of both you and your baby.
There are several remedies that may be tried which are discussed below.
Making some changes to your diet may help take care of constipation during pregnancy which are as follows.
Eating a diet rich in fiber that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans may help soften your stools and increase how often you have bowel movements. Try to aim for at least 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day.
Drinking plenty of water and other fluids is key. Try to aim for at least eight 12-ounce glasses of water each day, plus extra fluids like soup, tea, and fruit or vegetable juices may also help.
Caffeine and refined sugars can lead to dehydration, making constipation worse. Attempt to limit your drinking of coffee, black tea, soda, and sugar-filled snacks and focus on healthier options.
Apart from changes in diet, certain alterations to your lifestyle may help avoid and take care of constipation during pregnancy.
Physical activity is good for bowel function and may help reduce pregnancy constipation. If your healthcare provider’s okay with it, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
Setting up and keeping a regular bathroom routine may help train your body to have more steady bowel movements. Try to use the bathroom at the same time each day, giving yourself enough time to relax and focus on your needs.
The right posture on the toilet may aid in easy bowel movements. Sit on the toilet with your feet flat on the ground and slightly apart, leaning forward with a straight back. Avoid pushing when trying to pass stool, as this can lead to piles and anal fissures.
If changes in diet and lifestyle do not help, your healthcare provider may suggest some safe and effective laxatives or stool softeners to use during pregnancy. Always remember it is not to be taken without your doctor’s advice.
Bulk-forming agents help soften stools and make them easier to pass by adding bulk to the stool and taking up more water. These agents are generally thought of as safe during pregnancy.
Osmotic laxatives work by pulling water into the bowels, which assists in softening the stool and boosting bowel movements. These laxatives can be used only for a short period during pregnancy, but always discuss using them with your healthcare provider.
Lubricant laxatives, like mineral oil, help wet and coat the stool, making it easier to pass. While lubricant laxatives are typically seen as safe during pregnancy, it’s key to ask your healthcare provider before using them.
Stool softeners add water to the stools to make it softer and more easy to pass. These drugs are generally thought of as safe during pregnancy and can be very useful for those taking iron tablets that cause constipation. Do not self-medicate and always get your doctor’s approval first.
Apart from the research-backed remedies we just talked about, there are other options that pregnant women may find useful in dealing with constipation.
Biofeedback therapy is a non-invasive option that teaches you how to control your bodily functions better, including bowel movements. This therapy has been used to improve symptoms in some cases of constipation, but more study is needed to confirm its use during pregnancy.
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese method that includes stimulating specific points on the body to correct wrong balances and restore health. Even though some research points out that acupuncture may be a good option for constipation, we need more research to support its use in pregnant women.
Doing gentle, safe for pregnancy yoga poses may help improve digestion and ease constipation. Classes for prenatal yoga might be available in your local area, or you can practice certain poses at home with help from a qualified instructor.
Probiotics are good bacteria that help keep a healthy balance of germs in your intestines. There is some evidence to point out that eating foods high in probiotics, such as yogurt, kombucha, or kefir, can help improve symptoms of constipation. Always discuss using probiotics with your healthcare provider before adding them to your diet.
While mild constipation during pregnancy is normal, there are some situations when you should get medical help. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience the following.
If you’ve tried many remedies but haven’t found any relief, your healthcare provider may need to look at your case further and provide targeted advice on the next steps.
If you experience severe pain when passing stool, it can be a sign of a deeper issue, like piles or anal fissures. Your healthcare provider will help diagnose the cause and come up with an appropriate management plan.
If you see blood in your stools, this could be a sign of piles, anal fissures, or another issue. Ask your healthcare provider to find out the cause and get the right management options.
If constipation affects your daily life and well-being in a significant way, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They will help you explore other options to better your standard of life during pregnancy.
To lessen your chances of facing constipation during pregnancy, the following may be considered.
Eat a balanced diet full of fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and avoid too much caffeine or refined sugars that can lead to dehydration and constipation.
Do gentle, safe-for-pregnancy exercises, like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, with approval from your healthcare provider. Regular physical activity may help boost healthy digestion and avoid constipation.
Start a regular bowel routine, practice good toilet posture, and seek medical help when needed. By keeping a healthy lifestyle all through your pregnancy, you may lessen the odds of experiencing constipation.
Taking care of constipation during pregnancy is key for the comfort of the mother and also the well-being of the baby. By knowing the causes of constipation, resorting to simple solutions that are backed by research, and knowing when to get medical help, you can take on the hurdles of constipation and enjoy a healthier, more cozy pregnancy journey.
Never forget, it’s crucial to talk with your healthcare provider about any worries you have about constipation and its effect on your pregnancy. Together, you can create a plan that works best for both you and your baby.
Yes, constipation is a common symptom during pregnancy, affecting up to 72% of pregnant women at some stage.
Even though constipation itself isn’t likely to directly harm your baby, it can lead to issues like piles and anal fissures, which can affect your overall well-being and life quality during pregnancy.
Yes, natural solutions for constipation during pregnancy include increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, doing gentle exercise, and starting a regular bowel routine. In addition, other options like using probiotics, doing yoga, or trying acupuncture may be helpful for some women.
You may avoid constipation during pregnancy by eating a diet high in fiber and fluids, exercising regularly in moderation, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including starting a regular bowel routine and talking with your healthcare provider.
Get medical help if you experience constant constipation despite trying remedies, suffer from severe pain during bowel movements, have blood in your stools, or feel that constipation is greatly impairing your quality of life.
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