01/07/2025
CONSTIPATION DURING PREGNANCY
Let's talk constipation during pregnancy! 🌟
Constipation is a common issue many expectant moms face. What's normal, what's not, and how can you manage it? 🤰🏼 Let's break it down and get the lowdown on digestive health during pregnancy 💡
READ ALONG WITH DR X
Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, affecting up to 38% of pregnant women. It can occur at any stage but is particularly common in the first and third trimesters.
Let’s define constipation:
* It is a common digestive issue that can comprise of infrequent bowel movements, hard, dry or lumpy stools or plain difficulty passing stools. It can also be characterised by feeling bloated or a sense of stomach discomfort.
Causes of Constipation During Pregnancy:
1. Hormonal changes: Increased progesterone relaxes smooth muscles, including those of the intestines, slowing down digestion.
2. Growing uterus: As the uterus expands, it can press on the intestines and re**um, making bowel movements more difficult.
3. Iron supplements: Prenatal vitamins and iron supplements can contribute to constipation.
4. Decreased physical activity: Fatigue or discomfort may lead to reduced activity, which can slow digestion.
5. Dietary changes: Cravings or nausea may lead to a diet low in fiber or irregular eating patterns.
There’s ways to relief yourself from constipation:
1. Increase Fiber Intake:
• Aim for 25–30 grams per day.
• Eat whole grains, fruits (like prunes, pears, apples), vegetables, legumes, and nuts.
2. Stay Hydrated:
• Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily.
• Warm liquids, especially in the morning, may stimulate bowel movement.
3. Exercise Regularly:
• Walking, and swimming can help maintain bowel function.
• Aim for at least 20–30 minutes of moderate exercise most days.
4. Respond to the Urge:
• Don’t delay bowel movements as this can make stool harder and more difficult to pass.
5. Review Supplements:
• Ask your doctor if your iron supplement can be adjusted or switched to a more easily absorbed form
6. Consider Natural Remedies (with doctor’s approval):
Reach out to you Doctor if you experience any of the symptoms below:
• Have severe pain or bloating.
• Experience bleeding with bowel movements.
• Go more than 3 days without a bowel movement despite home remedies.
• Are concerned your supplements may be contributing.
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