Constipation is a common symptom of pregnancy and it may even be one of the first signals that will let you know you’ll have a baby, since it normally appears in the first weeks after conception. The hormones of pregnancy are in part responsible for constipation. At first, it can be bearable, but as the load increases, this may worsen constipation. If you are one of the expectant moms who suffer from constipation, you should follow some tips that will make it easier for you.
Nearly all pregnant women suffer from constipation, in a mild or severe form. If it becomes rather difficult for you to deal with your bowel movement, if you always feel your belly to be full or if you observe blood in your stools, it is very likely you suffer from constipation. In some very rare cases, these signs may be symptoms of a severe disease and if you are worried about it, you should consult your doctor.
In early pregnancy, numerous hormonal changes happen and one effect of the progesterone is the increase of the intestinal muscle relaxation. Constipation can occur at the same time with heartburn, bloating and indigestion. Thus, the intestinal activity is slower and less effective, and the intestinal contents stagnate or they forward slowly. The bowel contractions, which are essential in order to have stool, are also less intense. As the baby and the uterus grow in size and weight, they press on the intestines and thus aggravate the constipation. The most common complications of constipation can be hemorrhoids, which are extremely unpleasant.
Constipation can occur early in pregnancy, a few weeks after conception, although it is more common in late pregnancy. The pregnancy constipation usually lasts in the postpartum period. Certain pain medications such as codeine can make constipation considerably worse. If constipation is severe, you should avoid taking such drugs.
The prenatal vitamin supplements many pregnant women take contain iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells. But one of the adverse effects of iron in the body is constipation. You should talk to your gynecologist about these issues in order to find a solution.
Here are some recommendations for avoiding pregnancy constipation or improve it if it still occurs:
- A diet rich in fiber will help you avoid pregnancy constipation! Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, cereals and prunes.
- Try to drink plenty of fluids and 8 to 10 cups a day should be sufficient. If it’s hot and you sweat a lot or if you are doing sports, you will definitely need more liquid. You should avoid soda or coffee and juice, because they are diuretics and can even worse constipation. Water is the ideal drink and combined with a diet rich in fibers it can offer excellent results.
- Don’t forget to exercise! If you are sedentary it is more likely to suffer from pregnancy constipation. Walk, swim or do light exercise at least two times a week in order to stimulate the bowel movement.
- Talk to your gynecologist about prenatal vitamins (and their iron content) and about the natural remedies you can try.