Pregnancy Center

Constipation and Pregnancy

Overview
Being pregnant is probably the precious feeling for every woman in her life. During pregnancy, a woman needs to take some ultra care of her as her body is also responsible for child's growth and development. A pregnant woman also needs to take preventive measures so as to keep her baby comfortable and safe. One of the most common problems caused during pregnancy is constipation. At least 50 % of pregnant women have constipation problems during and after the pregnancy.

What is constipation?
Constipation is a medical term for infrequent or difficult bowel movements. People with constipation problem usually have less than three bowel movements in a week. It may occur as a result of dehydration, inadequate fiber or use of certain medications. Constipation is usually treated by giving laxatives or by adding some nutritious diet in the daily meals. The diet shall contain foods which are high in fiber. People with constipation are also suggested to drink lots of water to prevent dehydration.

Is constipation during pregnancy common?
Yes, constipation during pregnancy is common as half of the pregnant women are found to suffer from the problem. Women who undergo episiotomy (procedure that repairs the torn rectal tissue) suffer from painful bowel movements during the pregnancy. These women are believed to hold to their stool, consciously or unconsciously. Women with caesarean section delivery are found to have bowel movement paralyzed, temporary. This condition is referred as an ileus.

Reason behind constipation problem during pregnancy
If the constipation problems are frequently occurring during the second and third trimester, it is advised to consult a doctor. Increase in progesterone level during pregnancy is the major cause of constipation in pregnant women. Progesterone helps in relaxing the gastrointestinal muscles and slows down the movement of the gastrointestinal tract. This leads to occurrence of frequent episodes of constipation during pregnancy. Pressure of the growing uterus on the rectum is another important factor for constipation during pregnancy. Some medications such as iron pills are also found to worsen the problem of constipation.

Taking preventive measures
As the pregnancy constipation is common, you need to worry about the situation. However, if the problem persists for a longer time, you must seek help of a doctor or obstetrician. The doctor may ask you to change the diet or use some medications to relieve from the problem. Essentially, there are three ways to relieve from the problem of constipation during pregnancy:

• Exercise
• Diet
• Medications

Regular exercise can help in preventing constipation to a large extent. However, you must consult a doctor about the right exercises during the pregnancy. Light exercises such as walking can loosen the bowels and make you feel less bloated.
Your diet must contain food that is rich in fibers. Add lot of fruits and vegetables to your daily meal for preventing constipation. Along with right food, always drink sufficient water. During summer, you must drink around 8 to 10 ounce glasses of water everyday. This will keep your body hydrated and eventually prevent constipation.

Make sure that you are taking proper medications for preventing constipation. Taking nutrients through supplements is essential, but make sure that they do not create problem of constipation. Supplements that easily dissolve in the pH of vinegar are considered to be the best calcium supplements. Avoid antacids that have aluminum as they are believed to result in constipation.
Using the above tips and suggestions, keep your pregnancy period away from constipation and provide a healthy life to your innocent child.