Constipation is one of the most common side-effects in pregnancy. Some women will have experienced chronic constipation prior to becoming pregnant, and few others will develop constipation during pregnancy for the first time. Either ways, it causes discomfort that seeks to be resolved.
How common is constipation during pregnancy?
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal symptom in pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. It may continue to trouble some women throughout their pregnancy term aggravating in the third trimester again.
Research [1] says Constipation, heartburn, and haemorrhoids are common gastrointestinal complaints during pregnancy. Constipation occurs in 11-38% of pregnant women. Although the exact prevalence of haemorrhoids during pregnancy is unknown, the condition is common, and the prevalence of symptomatic haemorrhoids in pregnant women is higher than in non-pregnant women.
What causes constipation during pregnancy?
Constipation in pregnancy is probably caused by rising progesterone levels. The increased levels of hormones during pregnancy can slow down the digestive system. In some cases it may occur due to excessive pressure by the uterus on the intestine or rectum.
Common causes of constipation include:
- not eating enough fiber,
- not drinking enough water,
- certain medications, and
- changes in routine (such as travel)
What should I do if I have constipation during pregnancy?
Constipation is common and it affects people of all ages. You can usually treat it at home with simple changes to your diet and lifestyle.
- Eat wholegrain foods,
- Eat fruit and vegetables can often resolve constipation
- Drink lots of fluids
- Stay physically active – Move and exercise
- Check on supplements – You may have to avoid iron supplements, which can make you constipated. Sometimes Calcium supplement may be the culprit too. Ask your doctor if you can either manage without them or change to a different type.
Constipation in Pregnancy: Indian Home Remedies
Constipation, if mild, is often self-treated with home remedies. Experts often suggest the following natural ways to prevent constipation during pregnancy:
- Lemon juice: Lemon is great for digestion and to flush out the toxins and undigested food. Add 2-3 spoon of lemon juice in a glass of warm water for better digestion
- Flaxseed is rich in dietary fibre which adds bulk to the stool. This is another popular home remedy for treating constipation during pregnancy.
- Coconut oil has a lubricating effect that can reduce friction during bowel movements. Start your day with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil daily for easy passage of stool.
- Probiotics may help in the growth of healthy gut bacteria that encourage normal and regular bowel movements. You can have yoghurt or kombucha.
- Eat citrus fruit instead of drinking orange and mosambi juice. A major reason of constipation is lack of fibre in your daily routine. It is one of the best remedies for constipation. You should consume around 30 gm of fibre in a day.
- Water – Stay Hydrated can prevent and relieve constipation, especially during pregnancy. Drink enough water in the day for an easy bowel movement.
Constipation in Pregnancy Treatments
How to relieve Constipation during Pregnancy?
If constipation continues, your doctor may suggest a laxative. Different types of laxatives work in different ways:
- Bulk-forming laxatives absorb water and expand, which increases moisture in the stool and makes it easier to pass (these are thought to be the safest laxatives).
- Stool softeners add liquid content to the stool to soften it.
- Stimulants use a chemical to increase bowel activity, which moves the stool through the intestines.
Piles in Pregnancy (Haemorrhoids)
Constipation can have other side effects. Some people who have constipation will develop hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the rectum which can be very uncomfortable (if they cause pain, itching, or bleeding).
Haemorrhoids [1]: Haemorrhoids (piles) are swollen veins at or near the anus, which are usually asymptomatic. Haemorrhoids can become symptomatic if they prolapse (the forward or downward displacement of a part of the rectal mucosae through the anus) or because of other complications such as thrombosis.
How can pregnant women avoid constipation?
Making a few lifestyle changes might help you avoid constipation and might be able to relieve any constipation that you are already experiencing.
You can help prevent constipation by:
- Eating at least 25 grams of fibre a day
- Drinking plenty of fluids – Stay hydrated
- Get Moving: Exercise
- Not holding your stool—using the bathroom when you feel the urge to have a bowel movement
Related Reading:
Heartburn during Pregnancy: How to tackle acidity?
Nutrition for Healthy Pregnancy
Medical References: [1] Constipation, haemorrhoids, and heartburn in pregnancy; Juan C Vazquez; BMJ Clin Evid. 2008; PMCID: PMC2907947; published online
