With pregnancy comes a number of changes to your body. For many moms-to-be, constipation is one of the symptoms of pregnancy. Show If you’re experiencing infrequent or uncomfortable bowel movements. -- in other words, constipation -- don’t worry. This is quite common during pregnancy for many different reasons, which we’ll explain. Learn what can cause constipation during pregnancy and what you can do to alleviate or prevent the discomfort. What Causes Constipation in Pregnancy?Constipation can happen at any time in life, but you may be more susceptible to this condition during the later stages of pregnancy, perhaps when you’re in the third trimester. The potential causes of constipation at this time include:
Prevention and Home RemediesHaving infrequent bowel movements or stools that are difficult to pass can be quite uncomfortable even at the best of times, but these symptoms of constipation can be even more unpleasant when you’re pregnant and dealing with a host of other aches and pains. You may wish there were a miracle cure, or a medical formula, for immediate relief from your pregnancy constipation, but unfortunately there isn’t. Instead, focus on changes you can make to your diet and levels of activity, which may get things moving in time. Here are some you can take to help prevent or relieve constipation during pregnancy:
If you’re finding that the lifestyle changes listed above don’t work for you, turn to your healthcare provider. Your provider may recommend one of these over-the-counter medications, which can help you pass hard stools, but are not a cure for constipation:
Potential Complications of ConstipationIf the symptoms of constipation persist for several weeks or longer, this indicates chronic constipation, which can lead to complications such as:
To help avoid complications, it’s safest to get in touch with your healthcare provider at the first signs of constipation or pain. Don’t let constipation ruin your last few months of pregnancy! Talk to your healthcare provider, and make some of the lifestyle changes we’ve listed in this article. In time, things will get moving down there, and you can get back to more enjoyable tasks such as shopping for baby gear, decorating your baby’s nursery, or even just putting your feet up for a bit. One thing to keep in mind is that, at the other end of the spectrum, you may experience diarrhea from time to time during your pregnancy. You should always mention this to your healthcare provider, especially if you suspect it may be caused by something like food poisoning or a tummy bug.
Constipation is very common in pregnancy. It means that your bowel motions (poos) are very hard and may be painful to pass. You may also be doing a poo less often than usual. There are things you can do to help deal with constipation and prevent it. Symptoms include: Constipation can be caused by: You can ease constipation by: Only take iron supplements if your GP or midwife has said you need them. Healthy eating during pregnancy Having a good position on the toilet can help when you are emptying your bowels.
They may prescribe a high fibre drink, or other types of laxative to help you have a bowel motion.
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