Pregnancy and Constipation

Constipation is a common and most frequently occuring problem during pregnancy since pregnancy slows down the gastrointestinal tract which further can exacerbate hemorrhoids. The key to preventing constipation is to drink plenty of water and eat at least two grams of fiber every day - good sources include bran cereal, apples, and spinach. Your doctor may recommend fiber supplements or stool softeners.

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

Generally the causes of constipation during pregnancy are one among the following:

• Constipation in pregnant women is thought to occur due to hormones that relax the intestinal muscle
• The pressure of the expanding uterus on the intestines.
• Relaxation of the intestinal muscle causes food and waste to move slower through your system.
• Worry
• Anxiety
• Minimal physical exercise
• Low-fiber diet

Signs and symptoms of constipation

• There is a feeling that not all the faeces are being passed.
• If the faeces are very hard, they may cause bleeding from the rectum.
• More than four days between each bowel movement.
• Faeces are hard, which makes them difficult to pass.
• In extreme circumstances, a constipated bowel can result in difficulties giving birth.
• Constipation can also be a cause of lower abdominal pain.
• Rarely, these symptoms can be the signs of other more serious diseases. Always consult your doctor if you are concerned.

How to prevent constipation?

• Get some daily exercise - Nothing gets things moving like, well, moving. Any kind of exercise, walking, running, swimming, bicycling, even stretching or yoga, can all help ease constipation.
• Get more fiber - Eat more foods that are high in fiber, such as plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables (up to 9 servings a day if possible), fiber-rich breakfast cereals, whole-grain breads, and beans. Too much all at once could cause bloating and flatulence.
• Don't skimp on water - Experts recommend that pregnant women drink at least eight glasses of water a day; often people who are constipated aren't getting enough fluids.
• Check in with your doctor - In pregnancy, iron-containing prenatal vitamins or supplements can be a common culprit.
• When you need to go, go - When you are in hurry and on the run, it's common to tell yourself to wait to use the bathroom. But if you have a problem with constipation, heed the urge.
• Consider a fiber laxative - Your practitioner may suggest a fiber-based stool softener, such as Metamucil or Citrucel, which helps your intestines absorb water and makes your stools softer and easier to pass.