Q&A: Constipation During Pregnancy?
Constipation during pregnancy
During pregnancy, elevated progesterone levels cause smooth muscle to relax, which slows the passage of food through your intestines. This increases water absorption from the bowel and results in constipation. Your rapidly growing uterus, which compresses your intestines and pushes displaces your stomach upward, also contributes to the problem. Although for the most part constipation is mere nuisance, in some cases it does lead to serious medical problems such as hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding and rectal fissures.
The first step in treating constipation is making sure that you are drinking lots of water (at least 8 glasses a day), consuming enough fiber (as in fruits and vegetables), and getting ample activity (try walking 20-30 minutes daily. If the constipation persists, Metamucil or a mild stool softener such as Colace can help. If you are taking iron supplements, these may be contributing to your constipation — talk with your doctor about possible alternatives. In general, mineral oils, oral laxatives, enemas and rectal suppositories should be taken only after discussion with your physician, because they may stimulate labor.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
