Can constipation in pregnancy affect my baby?

Constipation itself usually does not harm your baby. It mainly causes discomfort for you, but severe constipation should still be discussed with your doctor.

When does constipation start in pregnancy?

Constipation during pregnancy can begin as early as the first trimester because rising progesterone levels naturally slow down your digestion.

Why Do You Feel Constipated During Pregnancy and Ways to Treat It

Feeling constipated in pregnancy is something a lot of women experience, so you’re definitely not alone. Your body is going through huge changes, and your digestive system can slow down as a result. You might notice that your stools feel harder and take longer to pass. It can be uncomfortable, especially when you’re already juggling all the other changes that come with pregnancy.

Why Constipation Happens During Pregnancy

Constipation is pretty common during pregnancy. It happens when your bowel movements become less frequent, hard, or difficult to pass.

There are a few reasons why this happens:

Hormonal changes: When you’re pregnant, your body produces more progesterone. This hormone supports your pregnancy, but it also relaxes the muscles in your intestines and slows down the digestion process.
Pressure from the growing uterus: As your baby grows, your uterus expands and starts pressing against your intestines. This pressure can make it harder for waste to move through your bowel. It’s especially noticeable in the third trimester when your baby is bigger and heavier.
Iron in prenatal vitamins: An Iron supplement is important to support increased blood production in pregnancy. However, too much iron can make it harder for the bacteria in your gut to break down food, leading to constipation.
Diet and lifestyle factors: What you eat and your lifestyle choices also matter a lot. If you’re not eating enough fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, or whole grains, your digestion can slow down.
Reduced physical activity: Feeling tired or heavy during pregnancy is normal, and it often means you move around less than usual. But less movement slows your digestion, letting waste sit in your intestines longer. This can lead to constipation, too.

Constipation in Pregnancy Symptoms

You might notice:

Bowel movements happening only a few times a week.
Hard, lumpy stools that are dry and painful to pass.
Straining during bowel movements.
A feeling of fullness or discomfort in your abdomen.

How to Get Rid of Constipation During Pregnancy

These are some practical home remedies for constipation during pregnancy:

1. Boost Your Fibre Intake

Fibre helps soften your stools and makes them easier to pass. Aim for a minimum of 25 to 30 grams of fibre daily.
Try to include:

Fruits like apples, pears, and bananas.
Vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and broccoli.
Whole grains like brown rice, oats, and whole wheat rotis.
Beans, peas, and lentils.

If you’re not used to eating a lot of fibre, increase it slowly to avoid bloating.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough fluids is crucial during pregnancy. Have 8 to 12 cups of water daily to keep your stools soft. In India’s warm climate, staying hydrated is even more important. So keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

3. Get Moving with Light Exercise

Even gentle activity can help your digestion. Try to do 20 to 30 minutes of moderate exercise three times a week.
Safe options include:

Walking
Prenatal yoga
Swimming or light aerobics, if your doctor approves

Always check with your healthcare professional before starting any exercise.

4. Reassess Your Prenatal Vitamins

Talk to your doctor if you suspect the iron in your prenatal vitamins is contributing to your early pregnancy constipation. They may suggest a vitamin with less iron or tips to balance your intake. Drinking plenty of water with your supplements helps too.

5. Consider Safe Medications or Supplements

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may suggest safe options for immediate constipation relief during pregnancy:

A natural fibre supplement that softens stools.
Mild stool softeners, but only use them if prescribed.
Magnesium supplements to ease bowel movements (only under medical supervision).

Avoid over-the-counter laxatives unless your doctor recommends them.

6. Stick to a Regular Schedule

Creating a consistent routine can help regulate your bowel movements. Try these tips:

Eat meals at fixed times each day to encourage regular digestion.
Avoid skipping meals or eating irregularly.
Limit caffeine.

Taking time to relax and not rushing through meals can also support healthy digestion.
Constipation in pregnancy can be annoying and uncomfortable. Your body is undergoing many changes, so occasional constipation is a common occurrence. The key is knowing what to do to make things easier. Simple things, such as eating more fibre, drinking enough water, and staying active, can really help.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Do You Feel Constipated During Pregnancy and Ways to Treat It

Can constipation in pregnancy affect my baby?
Constipation itself usually does not harm your baby. It mainly causes discomfort for you, but severe constipation should still be discussed with your doctor.
When does constipation start in pregnancy?
Constipation during pregnancy can begin as early as the first trimester because rising progesterone levels naturally slow down your digestion.