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Knowing how to control constipation during pregnancy can enhance your overall health and quality of life.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation indicates that you are having difficulty moving your bowels. It occurs when food waste solidifies in the bottom section of your digestive system bowel rather than passing through as stool. Most individuals have experienced the unpleasant feeling of constipation before, but it is more frequent while pregnant. The hormonal changes in your body that allow you to get pregnant might also develop constipation. When Does Constipation Begin In Pregnancy?
You may begin to feel constipated as your hormone levels rise to support your pregnancy. The changes may occur as early as the second or third month of your first trimester.
How Common Is Constipation During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, around 16% to 39% of people have constipation. Constipation most likely occurs during the third trimester, when the foetus is heaviest and exerts the greatest strain on your gut. Constipation may occur in all three trimesters, and continue for up to three months after delivery.Symptoms And Causes
What Causes Constipation During Pregnancy?
Hormonal changes in your body during pregnancy along with your daily routines, might raise your risks of constipation. Causes of constipation during pregnancy include:- Progesterone: When pregnant, your body produces more of the hormone progesterone. Progesterone relaxes your intestines, or bowels, allowing them to work less hard to remove waste from your body.
- The foetus: As it grows, your uterus becomes heavier. This excess weight might place greater strain on your colon, making it difficult for waste to exit your body.
- Iron from a prenatal vitamin: The iron in your prenatal vitamin helps your body produce the blood necessary to circulate oxygen to your baby. However, too much iron might make it difficult for microorganisms in your bowels to break down food.
- Lifestyle: Your food, the quantity of fluids you drink, and the amount of exercise you get all contribute to your constipation. Most pregnant women do not consume enough fibre, drink enough water, or exercise enough to assist their digestive system in eliminating waste.
What Are The Symptoms Of Constipation?
Releasing a stool is pleasant. Constipation feels just the opposite. You know you're constipated when:- You can only excrete a couple of times every week
- You struggle to excrete, and your stomach is distended and gassy
- When you excrete, the faeces are lumpy and firm. It hurts to pass them because they are so dry
- Constipation may cause or aggravate haemorrhoids and anal fissures which occur during pregnancy.
How Is Constipation Detected During Pregnancy?
Your healthcare professional may enquire about the frequency and appearance of your bowel movements. Other enquiries regarding your daily routines might assist your physician in determining what is causing or exacerbating your constipation. Your provider could ask:- What is your diet and how much water you drink every day
- If you are exercising or engaging in enough physical activity
- What medications or supplements are you taking?
How Can You Treat Constipation When Pregnant?
You can't prevent pregnancy hormones from making it difficult to defecate, but you can make other adjustments to assist:- Consume 25-30 grams of fibre-rich meals each day
- Every day, drink eight to twelve glasses of water.
- Get 20-30 minutes of moderate activity three times a week
- Take a different prenatal vitamin
Are There Any Adverse Effects Of The Treatment?
Some laxatives may induce dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. This is why it's critical to use the proper laxative at an appropriate duration. Consult your doctor.Can Constipation Harm A Baby During Pregnancy?
No. Constipation may generate a lot of pressure in your tummy, which can make you worry for your baby. But don't worry, constipation may be uncomfortable for you, but it is not harmful to your baby.You may need to make certain modifications to control constipation while pregnant. However, there are simple steps you and your physician may take to help you find relief. When it is time to use the loo, the meals you consume, the fluids you drink, the activities you perform, and the medications you take all play a role. Establish healthy routines so that your pregnancy memories do not contain painful bowel movements.
FAQs on Constipation in Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
- what are the symptoms of constipation in pregnancy
You may lower your chances of being constipated by doing the same things you'd do to manage it. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates, and gentle aerobics are all effective ways to keep your bowels busy. - When should I visit my healthcare provider for constipation?
Contact your doctor if you've been constipated for more than a few weeks. Don't fear going to the toilet. Make sure you consult your doctor before taking any medications while pregnant. This includes fibre supplements and laxatives. - Does constipation go away after childbirth?
Yes, constipation usually goes away on its own after childbirth, during the postpartum period, as your body recovers. This will not happen immediately and may take a few weeks as your hormones adjust. How long it takes depends on your individual circumstances.
