Constipation in pregnancy is common but rarely talked about. Many expectant moms dealing with it often wonder, “Can this harm my baby?” And honestly, the concern is completely valid! The intense pressure while straining can leave you anxious about your baby tucked so closely inside. Studies show that up to 39% of pregnant women experience constipation during pregnancy.
Here we have explained the common causes, natural remedies and expert tips to help you get relief from constipation during pregnancy.
Constipation Explained
Constipation is a condition in which you experience difficulty in passing stool. The bowel movements become less frequent and harder to pass, resulting in hard, dry and lumpy stools. You often tend to strain hard, leading to discomfort, bloating and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. Constipated people often defecate less than three times per week.
While many people experience constipation due to medications, low-fibre diet, dehydration and sedentary lifestyle, constipation during pregnancy is often triggered by hormonal changes in the body.
When Does Constipation Start in Pregnancy?
Constipation in pregnancy can start right from the second month, as soon as the pregnancy hormones surge in the body. While it may be common throughout pregnancy, it gets more pronounced in the second and third trimesters.
Here is a more detailed breakdown:
•First Trimester: The increase in progesterone, crucial for supporting early pregnancy, can cause constipation right from the second or third week of pregnancy.
•Second Trimester – When the uterus expands during the second trimester, it adds mechanical obstruction. This causes the stool to build up and become hard.
•Third Trimester – The obstruction increases with the growing baby, making constipation a common discomfort during this phase.
Are You Constipated?
You may get confused about constipation during pregnancy owing to the constant heaviness you feel underneath. If left untreated, constipation can get worse.
It is recommended to watch out for these symptoms of constipation in pregnancy:
•Irregular pooping or passing stools less than thrice per week.
•Difficulty in passing stools, having to strain too hard.
•Passing dry, hard or lumpy stools.
•Pain experienced while defecating.
•Feeling bloated or gassy constantly.
Causes of Constipation in Pregnancy
Several reasons contribute to constipation in pregnancy:
•Pregnancy Supplements
Prenatal supplements include iron, which is essential for preventing anaemia. But too much iron can make it difficult for your gut bacteria to break down the food, resulting in hard stools, leading to constipation. While iron supplements are important to support the pregnancy, it is also crucial to drink enough water to soften the stools.
•Expanding Uterus
As the baby grows, the uterus expands, adding pressure on the intestines. This pressure compresses the intestines, making it harder for the poop to pass out. It builds up and becomes dry and hard, leading to constipation.
•Hormonal Changes
Progesterone levels surge in the body in the first trimester to support early pregnancy. This hormone relaxes the intestines, triggering peristalsis – the natural wave-like motion that moves stool through the intestines. In simple terms, the intestines don’t work hard to squeeze waste out once relaxed under the effect of progesterone.
•Unhealthy Lifestyle
Pregnant women often tend to exercise less, drink fewer fluids or eat a less fibre-rich diet, all contributing factors to constipation.
How to get Relief from Constipation in Pregnancy?
While you may not be able to prevent constipation in pregnancy entirely, you can get relief by trying these remedies:
•Eating a fibre-rich diet: Around 25-30 grams per day, can help in passing stools easily. Include fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet and cut down the consumption of processed foods.
•Drinking enough water can keep you hydrated and ease bowel movements. During pregnancy, the body needs more water than usual. Aim for 8-12 glasses per day.
•Light exercises during pregnancy can keep your bowels moving. Ask your doctor about the exercises that are safe during pregnancy.
•Switching supplements under medical supervision can help with constipation. Your doctor might suggest alternative vitamins that do not cause constipation.
•Taking laxatives or a fibre supplement, recommended by your doctor, can also help relieve constipation. But it is advisable not to self-medicate for constipation in pregnancy, as it might not be safe.
Natural Remedies for Constipation in Pregnancy
Apart from drinking plenty of fluids, indulging in light exercises and eating a fibre-rich diet, there are a few natural remedies you can try to get relief from constipation during pregnancy. However, it is advisable to first reach out to your doctor before trying any of these remedies:
•Eating ripe bananas can ease bowel problems as they are a good source of fibre.
•Incorporating prunes or prune juice into your diet can help relieve constipation.
•Fermented foods like curd, sauerkrat, and kimchi can also help promote regular bowel movements.
When to See a Doctor?
Generally, you need not worry about constipation during pregnancy as it will not harm your baby. But in some instances, constipation in pregnancy can indicate serious underlying issues. Consult your doctor if you are facing consistent constipation, accompanied by abdominal pain, diarrhoea and blood and mucus while passing stool.
Summing Up
It is natural for you to wonder if constipation might harm your baby, as an expectant mother. Generally, it won’t. Pregnancy hormones have a huge role to play in your constipation. Having said that, a few lifestyle and dietary changes can help you get relief from constipation in pregnancy. If symptoms persist, you should visit your doctor to ensure your baby’s good health.
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