After having a baby, you feel so happy, right? But at the same time, with the physical fatigue and changes, sometimes minor health problems also come along. Constipation is a problem that many new mothers face, but they don't talk about it much, and it makes them feel a little uncomfortable. This is a very common condition, so there is no reason to be afraid or ashamed of it. Let's talk about it openly today.
What is postpartum constipation?
Simply put, the first 6 weeks or so after giving birth is what we call the 'postpartum period'. During this time, your body begins to adjust back to its pre-pregnancy state. With these changes, the functioning of your digestive system may also change slightly.
Constipation is a condition that makes it difficult to go to the bathroom. This means that you cannot go to the bathroom every day, your stools are very dry, hard like stones, and come out slowly, and you feel like your stomach has not completely emptied even after going to the bathroom. Although bowel movements usually return to normal within a few days after giving birth, some people may experience this discomfort.
Why does this happen to new mothers?
There are several specific reasons why constipation occurs after childbirth. Let's see what they are.
| Reason | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Hormones during pregnancy | The increased levels of hormones (especially progesterone) in the body during pregnancy can slightly reduce bowel movements. This effect may persist even after delivery, as it takes some time for these hormone levels to return to normal. |
| Hemorrhoids | Hemorrhoids can occur during pregnancy and during childbirth due to straining. This pain in the anus can lead to a fear of going to the bathroom. This fear can lead to constipation and even more difficulty controlling the urge to go to the bathroom. |
| Pain in the stitches | If you have had an episiotomy and stitches, you may be afraid to touch the area because of the pain. This is also a major cause of constipation. |
| Iron supplements | The doctor may have given you iron pills to build your blood because you lost a lot of blood during childbirth. These iron pills can cause constipation in some people. |
| Damage to the anal sphincter | During childbirth, especially during difficult childbirth, the muscles around the anus (anal sphincter) can be damaged. This can lead to difficulty controlling bowel movements. |
| Water and food | Breastfeeding a baby requires more water, so the body needs more water. Not drinking enough water and eating less fiber can also directly contribute to constipation. |
What are the symptoms of constipation?
These symptoms can sometimes be similar to other medical conditions, so if you have any doubts, it's best to talk to your doctor .
The most important thing is to be aware of these symptoms so that you can take action quickly.
Here are some of the most common symptoms :
- Having to strain when going to the toilet.
- The stool is very small, dry, and like a stone .
- Feeling like your stomach is not completely empty even after going to the toilet.
- Painful going to the toilet.
- Bloating .
- Cramping or pain in the stomach or intestines .
- Going to the toilet less than three times a week.
What can be done to avoid this inconvenience?
The good news is that this condition can be largely controlled with a few simple lifestyle changes. Don't be afraid to try these things.
1. Water is your best friend: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. It's especially important to drink more water if you're breastfeeding. Drinking a glass of lukewarm water first thing in the morning can help your bowels function properly.
2. Eat more fiber: Include foods like greens, vegetables, fruits (like bananas), whole grain bread, oats , and rice in your diet. This fiber helps to soften stools and make them easier to pass.
3. Don't hold back when you need to go to the bathroom: When you're busy with the baby, you may feel like you need to go to the bathroom but you think, "I'll go in a bit." Don't do that. Go as soon as you feel the urge . When you hold back, your intestines absorb more water from your stool, making it even drier and harder .
4. Walk as much as possible: You don't need to do a lot of exercise. Just taking a short walk, whether indoors or in the garden, will stimulate bowel function. Ask your doctor and start a small exercise routine that's right for you.
5. Rest is essential: It's hard to get enough rest with a new baby. But rest whenever you can. Fatigue and stress can also contribute to constipation.
6. Natural Laxatives: Prunes are a natural laxative. Try eating a few a day.
7. Consult your doctor: If these methods don't work, never take over-the-counter laxatives . Doing so can be dangerous, especially while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for advice. He or she will prescribe a mild laxative or fiber supplement that is safe for you and your baby.
What happens if constipation persists?
This condition usually gets better within a few days. However, in rare cases, if left untreated, complications can occur. It's good to be aware of these as well.
- Rectal prolapse: A protrusion of part of the lining of the rectum due to continuous straining.
- Hemorrhoids: Straining can damage the veins in the rectum and worsen hemorrhoids.
- Fecal incontinence: Long-term retention of stool can weaken the muscles in the intestines, causing small amounts of stool to be unintentionally passed.
- Urinary incontinence: Continuous straining weakens the pelvic floor muscles, causing a small amount of urine to leak when laughing, coughing, or sneezing.
- Fecal impaction: A condition in which stool becomes so hard that it becomes stuck in the rectum that the muscles in the intestines cannot push it out. This is a condition that requires medical treatment.
Don't be afraid of these things. These things happen very rarely. But they show how important it is to pay attention to the problem of simple constipation.
Take-Home Message
- Constipation after childbirth is very common . Don't be ashamed of it or suffer alone.
- Drink plenty of water and add fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, and legumes) to your diet. This is the best and simplest solution.
- When you feel the need to go to the bathroom, go right away . Don't hold back.
- If home remedies don't help after a few days, if the pain increases, or if you have blood in your stool , be sure to see your doctor .
- Your body has gone through a lot of changes. Give it some time to get back to normal. Think about yourself too . Your physical and mental well-being is just as important as your baby's well-being.
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