Managing Pregnancy-Related Constipation

Hormonal shifts, decreased activity, and a growing uterus contribute to the widespread problem of constipation in pregnancy. Constipation during pregnancy is uncomfortable, but it's manageable with a few lifestyle changes. 

Consult your healthcare physician, eat more high-fibre meals, increase your fluid intake and activity level, and pay attention to your body's cues. Prenatal vitamins with high iron content may also need to be changed.

What Can I Do to Ease or Avoid Constipation While Carrying My Child?

Constipation in pregnancy can be avoided and treated in similar ways. In case you are experiencing or are at risk for constipation, consider the following measures:

1. Consume a Diet Rich in Fibre

Fruits, morning cereals, vegetables, prunes, whole-grain bread, and bran can contribute to your daily quota of 25-30g of dietary fibre. This aids in producing more substantial, less difficult-to-pass faeces.

2. Take in Lots of Water

It's also crucial to drink enough water when trying to achieve softer stools by increasing fibre consumption. Take in at least 10 to 12 ounces of liquid daily. 

Consuming a high-fibre meal and plenty of fluids at once is the most effective strategy for regular bowel movements. Exercise, hot and humid weather, and sweat contribute to a potential rise in fluid requirements.

3. Honour Your Bodily Cues

If you need to use the loo, it's best to do so after eating, when bowel movement activity is at its peak. When you feel the need to relieve yourself, don't ignore it.

4. Do Regular Exercise

Constipation is more likely to occur in sedentary people. Moderate activity, such as walking, swimming, or other similar activities, stimulates bowel movement, which aids digestion. Set aside 20 to 30 minutes for exercise three times a week.

5. Over the Counter Remedies

Constipation during pregnancy can be alleviated using over-the-counter remedies like Metamucil (Class B). Before taking any over-the-counter drugs, you should consult with your doctor.

6. Cut Back or Stop Taking Iron Supplements

Constipation is a possible side effect of iron supplementation. A healthy diet during pregnancy can usually supply all the iron you need. If you suffer from constipation, try spreading your iron intake throughout the day. 

Checking your iron levels and receiving advice on managing iron intake best while pregnant are important topics to discuss with your healthcare provider. 

7. Consume Probiotics

The gut is home to millions of beneficial bacteria that are important in maintaining good health. Regular bowel movements are associated with a healthy gut bacteria population, which probiotics may help restore. Probiotic-rich foods include fermented foods like yoghurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

What Treatments for Constipation should you avoid if you are expecting a Baby?

Because they might cause uterine contractions and dehydration, laxative tablets should never be used to treat constipation during pregnancy. If you need help passing gas, a laxative or stool softener can be purchased without a prescription from your doctor.

Because of their negative impact on nutritional absorption, pregnant women should avoid mineral oils.

Will the Constipation Last Only the First Three Months of Pregnancy?

It can. That's because even after you've passed the first trimester, variables like increased progesterone and decreased physical activity can still contribute to constipation. Stools get drier because your digestive system absorbs less water.

As your pregnancy progresses, your uterus may grow larger, making it more difficult for faeces to pass through your digestive tract.

Conclusion:

Constipation in pregnancy is common, but it can be treated. If you're experiencing the discomfort of blocked-up bowels while waiting for your baby's arrival, follow the measures above.

Also, Visit here: How to Get the Most Out of Your Probiotic Diet?