Pregnancy often gives rise to a number of changes in the body, and constipation is one of them. It can be an extremely uncomfortable condition and can be caused by different reasons. Constipation in pregnancy has been a common issue amongst women but can be treated to reduce its effects.
One can easily spot the symptoms and identify the condition of constipation during pregnancy. While it can make one feel bloated, constipation can be cured with easy-to-follow lifestyle routines and certain medications. To know more, keep reading!Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem that affects many people, including pregnant women. Constipation during pregnancy is defined as infrequent bowel movements, typically fewer than three times per week, with difficulty passing stools.
Most women tend to experience constipation during the third trimester because of the weight of the foetus and the pressure that it exerts on one’s bowels. However, constipation problem in pregnancy can occur anytime and also last for some time after childbirth.
It is essential to manage constipation during pregnancy because it can also lead to complications such as anal fissures or faecal impaction.
The issue of constipation during pregnancy for women can be different as there are several factors that contribute to this. Here are some possible causes of constipation during pregnancy:
Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if one is suffering from constipation because the symptoms are similar to those of normal pregnancy. However, experiencing severe discomfort, pain in the bowel region or difficulty in passing stool must be taken up with the doctor for the right course of treatment. Below are some of the most highlighted symptoms of constipation during pregnancy:
During pregnancy, constipation is a common problem. This is due to hormonal changes that slow down the digestive system and the pressure of the growing uterus on the rectum. To prevent or manage constipation during pregnancy, women can make some lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of water, eating a high-fibre diet, and exercising regularly. Here are some ways to cure constipation during pregnancy:
One can also explore effective home remedies for constipation in pregnancy to improve bowel movement. The treatment for constipation during pregnancy depends on the severity of the condition, the woman's health, and the underlying cause. However, with the right consultation and treatment, it can be cured.
Constipation in pregnancy is a common gastrointestinal problem. It is characterised by infrequent bowel movements, typically less than three times per week, with difficulty passing stools. Hormonal changes that slow down digestion and pressure from the expanding uterus on the intestines can cause constipation. Other causes include iron supplements, lack of exercise, dehydration, changes in diet, anxiety or stress, and pre-existing digestive issues.
The most evident symptoms of constipation during pregnancy include infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, hard or lumpy stools, bloating, abdominal discomfort, rectal discomfort, and anal fissures. However, you can manage or prevent constipation by increasing your fibre intake, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and following a healthy diet.
At HexaHealth, we have rich experience in dealing with women's health, pregnancies, and advanced surgical intervention. We can help you navigate through the issues of constipation in pregnancies and lead you on the right path. Speak to our expert teams today and get a dedicated consultation with ease!
Yes, constipation is often a common condition during pregnancy. It tends to affect over 16 to 39% of pregnant women at least once before the delivery of the child. While it is most common to occur in the third trimester, you can be constipated anytime.
Experiencing constipation during pregnancy, to a certain extent, is completely normal. With the right diet, regular exercises and effective medication, your constipation can be completely cured.
While you can experience constipation anytime during the pregnancy, it is most common in the third trimester. This is primarily because of the heavy weight of the foetus, which can interfere with bowel movement.
Experiencing frequent constipation can hint at pregnancy, but it is not a direct sign of it. You should turn to more credible ways like a pregnancy test to make sure of the pregnancy.
Constipation during pregnancy can start during the second or third month for women. This is dependent on when the progesterone hormone increases in the body, which causes the functioning of your intestines to relax.
Pregnancy can often cause constipation in women due to an increase in the progesterone hormone. Nevertheless, the condition can be cured with the right treatment and a fibre-rich diet.
Constipated women are likely to experience irregular bowel movements or hard stool which can be painful and frustrating. Frequent bloating or pain in the abdomen can also be the result of constipation.
The most common cause of constipation in pregnancy is the increase of progesterone hormone in women. Other reasons can include dehydration or additional pressure on the intestines.
Having hard stool or excessive bloating can be the most evident signs of constipation in pregnancy. You can have irregular bowel movements, abdomen or stomach pains or find it difficult to pass stool during this condition.
If you complain of prolonged difficulty in passing stool, have abdominal pain, or experience irregular bowel movement, your doctor is likely to diagnose the condition of constipation during pregnancy.
It is best to consult with a doctor to gauge the underlying reason for being constipated. They are likely to prescribe you the most suitable medication or stool softeners that can aid your condition. Improving your diet and including daily exercising while being hydrated can also help you.
Having a fibre-rich diet and exercising regularly can prevent the risks of getting constipation problem during pregnancy. Your doctor may also advise on taking fibre supplements to improve your bowel system.
Make sure to stay hydrated throughout your pregnancy to avoid constipation. An active lifestyle with frequent exercising can also help in keeping your bowel movement in place.
While constipation can be an uncomfortable experience for you, it is very unlikely to affect your baby. The weight of your foetus can hamper your bowel movement, but it has no significant impact on the health of your baby.
Laxatives can be the first line of treatment that can help you treat constipation problem in pregnancy with ease. Using stool softeners can also make it easier for you to pass stool.
Including fibre-rich food like fruits and vegetables can be effective in treating constipation in pregnancy. Exercising daily and staying hydrated can also be a helpful remedy.
Constipation during pregnancy can be relieved as soon as you poop the stool. Using a softener can be helpful in easing the situation. Drinking water consistently is also likely to improve your constipation issue.
Controlling your hormones and using stool softeners can help you cure constipation in pregnancy permanently. Treating your dehydration is also effective in making the condition better.
Constipation is one of the most common conditions in pregnancy, which arises due to an increase in hormones. Additionally, diarrhoea can also be an issue during pregnancy caused due to hormonal or diet changes.
It is best to consult with your doctor to understand which laxative is safe for you and your baby for treating constipation during pregnancy. Certain stool softeners can also be leveraged to improve your situation.
It is likely that your constipation issues are resolved after childbirth. However, in some cases, you may still experience constipation until three months after your child is born.
Drink plenty of water, eat high-fiber foods, exercise regularly, try bowel movements at the same time each day, and talk to a doctor before using any laxatives or stool softeners can help relieve constipation problem during pregnancy.
Constipation in pregnancy is a common condition where bowel movements become infrequent or difficult due to hormonal changes, pressure on the intestines, and iron supplements.
Last Updated on: 9 March 2023
A specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology with a rich experience of over 21 years is currently working in HealthFort Clinic. She has expertise in Hymenoplasty, Vaginoplasty, Vaginal Tightening, Labiaplasty, MTP (Medical Termination...View More
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