Constipation is the most common complaint among pregnant women. Almost every woman faces this problem at some point during pregnancy. As you know, constipation is characterized by irregular bowel movements and hard stool. Drinking plenty of water helps to cure mild constipation. Certain medications and medical attention is needed for severe constipation. However, it is not safe to use medications and all types of home remedies during pregnancy. Read through the below lines to know more about constipation during pregnancy.
Causes of Constipation during Pregnancy:
Painful bowel movements may have many reasons. But, often it is attributed to hormonal changes and lack of exercise. Following are some causes of constipation:
Supplements:
During pregnancy, the nutritional needs increase drastically because of the fetus development. One cannot fulfill the needs of the body by taking healthy diet. Thus, gynecologists often prescribe vitamin, iron or calcium supplements for ensuring healthy delivery. However, these supplements can sometimes cause problem. Excessive calcium or iron dosage may interfere with normal bowel movement resulting in constipation.
Hormonal imbalance:
Hormonal changes are one of the most common causes of constipation. Pregnancy disturbs the production of progesterone and estrogen hormones. If any of these two hormones is produced in excess it may have a negative impact on several bodily functions like bowel movement and digestion. Fluctuation in these hormone levels can slow down bowel movement, causing constipation.
Developing fetus:
Another reason is growing baby in the womb. The tummy protrudes as the months pass on. This bulged up tummy puts excess stress on lower intestinal muscles. Hence, lower intestines may not eliminate the fecal matter, as they have to support the changes in body posture. Excessive stress on intestines may result in difficulty in stool movement, causing constipation.
Lack of exercise:
During pregnancy, exercise takes a backseat. Though this is normal because of increase in weight, avoiding it completely is not suggested. It is must to reduce physical activity level but that doesn’t mean to remain physically inactive. Lack of physical activity can result in infrequent bowel movement. It happens due to lack of exercise. Intestinal muscles lose flexibility and results in slow movement of stools.
Thyroid problems:
One of the causes of constipation in pregnant women may include thyroid disorders. Thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism can trigger constipation. Regular bowel movement becomes haywire in hypothyroidism and hence most pregnant women complain about constipation.
Home Remedies for Constipation during Pregnancy:
Following are some simple home remedies for constipation:
High fiber diet:
It is must to consume foods that are good sources of fiber such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole wheat breads. This adds bulk to stool and prevents constipation. However, increase fiber consumption gradually in the diet. Avoid processed foods, cheese and sugar. Also, do not take large meals instead take 6 small meals at regular intervals. Chew food properly.
Prune juice:
Pregnant women are suggested to drink prune juice as it has mild laxative properties. This juice provides simple sugars to the body which help to draw fluids to intestines. Additional fluid aids in softening of stool and aids in easier bowel movement. Every morning eat a few prunes or drink a glass of prune juice.
Stool softeners:
Colace is a best stool softener for treating constipation. It has docusate that draws water into intestines and softens the stool in digestive tract. Additionally, as the active ingredients of drug are not absorbed by body, the fetus will not have any danger. However, it is best to consult the doctor before using any stool softener.
Avoid holding bowel movement:
You must not hold stool for a long period after you feel bowel movement. Holding will harden the stool in digestive tract. It becomes dry and cumbersome to get out of body.
Drink more water:
Always keep your body hydrated. Adequate amounts of fluid hydrates the stool and softens it. It facilitates bowel movements and avoids hardening of stool in intestines. Hence, a person must drink 8 glasses of water every day.
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