Pregnancy is a beautiful and hopeful time in every woman's life. But there are some minor health problems that come with this beautiful time. Along with dizziness and vomiting, the main problem that many mothers face is constipation . It's very uncomfortable when you can't go to the toilet for days and feel like you've filled your stomach? If you also have this problem, don't worry about it. This is normal in most cases. But it's not a good idea to take medicine from the pharmacy for it. So today, let's talk about constipation during pregnancy and what you can do safely about it.
Why is constipation so common during pregnancy?
There are several main reasons for constipation during pregnancy. Knowing these will make it easier for you to understand this condition.
- Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, our bodies produce a lot of the hormone progesterone . This hormone relaxes the muscles of the uterus and also slows down the activity of the intestines in our digestive system. This means that the food we eat moves through the intestines more slowly. This causes the body to absorb more water, making the stools dry and hard.
- Iron Supplements : Doctors will give you iron tablets to prevent anemia during pregnancy. These iron tablets are also a major cause of constipation.
- Enlarged uterus: As the baby grows inside the womb, the uterus gradually grows larger. This can put pressure on our intestines. This pressure can also cause obstruction in the passage of stool.
- Changes in diet and exercise: Sometimes during pregnancy, the way we eat and drink changes due to loss of appetite. Also, walking and exercising decreases due to fatigue. These things also affect constipation.
Before taking medication, should we try some of these natural methods?
Rather than resorting to medication as soon as you feel constipated, there are some very simple and safe methods you can try at home. Most of the time, these things will provide relief from your problem.
Drink plenty of water.
This is the most important thing. Try to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. Drinking plenty of water will soften your stool and make it easier to pass. Not only water, but also liquids like fresh fruit juice and porridge are good.
Eat more fiber-rich foods.
Fiber is like a bundle of coconuts to our digestive system. It cleanses the intestines, increases the weight of stool, and helps it pass more easily.
- Vegetables (spinach, gotukola , bok choy)
- Vegetables (beans, carrots, beets)
- Fruit (grapes, bananas, avocados)
- Grains (oats, millet, brown rice)
Add fiber-rich foods like these to your diet.
Do a little exercise.
It is very good to do light exercise that is suitable for pregnancy. Even just walking for 20-30 minutes a day is enough. Exercise stimulates the functioning of the intestines and reduces constipation. However, it is essential to talk to your doctor and get approval before starting any exercise.
If you must take medication, what is safe?
If the natural methods mentioned above do not cure your constipation, your doctor may prescribe medication. But there is one important thing we all need to remember here.
Anything you take during pregnancy can affect your unborn baby. Therefore, do not take any medication from a pharmacy or someone else's prescription without consulting a doctor.
Even over-the-counter (OTC) medications are safe to take during pregnancy, but you should always consult your doctor before using them. In general, there are several types of medications that are considered safe for constipation during pregnancy. Only your doctor can determine which medication is best for you, the dosage, and how long you should take them.
Below is a simple description of some such medications.
| Active Ingredient | Brand Name Examples | How it works simply |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk-Forming Laxatives | Psyllium (Metamucil), Calcium Polycarbophil (Fibercon) | These are like natural fibers. They absorb water into the stool, increasing its weight and volume, stimulating the intestines and making it easier to pass. |
| Stool Softeners | Docusate Sodium (Colace) | These help absorb water and fat into the stool, softening it so it can be passed easily without straining. |
| Osmotic Laxatives | Polyethylene Glycol (Miralax), Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) | These medications draw water into the intestines, making the stool looser and faster to pass. |
Things to pay particular attention to
The first trimester of pregnancy is a very important time when the baby's major organs, such as the brain and heart, are developing. Therefore , avoid making rash decisions about medication during this time. Do not take any medication without the advice of a doctor unless absolutely necessary.
Also, a medicine is only "safe" if it is used at the prescribed dose and as prescribed by the doctor. Taking too much or using it for too long can cause unwanted effects.
If you have severe stomach cramps, bleeding, or not having a bowel movement for days along with constipation, don't assume it's normal. See your doctor right away. Sometimes it can be a sign of another health problem.
Take-Home Message
- Constipation during pregnancy is very common and normal. Don't be unnecessarily afraid of it.
- Instead of resorting to medication first, try natural methods such as drinking plenty of water, eating a diet high in fiber, and light exercise.
- Most importantly: Do not take any medication (including over-the-counter medications) during pregnancy without your doctor's approval.
- The first three months of pregnancy are a critical time for the baby's development, so be extra careful when using medication during that time.
- The medications mentioned in this article are considered safe only when used at the prescribed dosage, under the guidance of your doctor.
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