Simranjit Kaur

Mother of one, Master of Education with specialization in child-psychology. After becoming mother, I met with real me. I am now learning new concepts of parenting every fresh day and sharing my experiences with other mothers. I believe, one of the most important things that you, as a parent, should work on is - your child's psychology. Understanding the child-psychology will help you build stronger bonds and know them better.

Constipation is unpleasant, which affects around 40% of pregnant women. Hormonal changes are the main cause of constipation during pregnancy. Constipation chances are higher during the first-trimester pregnancy because of increased levels of progesterone. In this article, we will be talking about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of constipation during pregnancy.

As you know that Pregnancy is often accompanied by an increase in the progesterone hormone that causes the relaxation of all the muscles in the body, including intestinal muscles. In simpler terms, relaxed intestinal muscles mean gradual/slower digestion. This actually leads to constipation.

In addition, the pressure on the uterus due to the growing fetus and iron intake (prenatal vitamin supplements) are two other reasons behind constipation during pregnancy. For your information, iron supplements are thought to slow digestion as they stick undigested substances in your body, which leads to constipation.

ALSO READ – Most Common Infections During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, you are not supposed to take constipation lightly because it can cause abdominal pain, anal bleeding, a feeling of restlessness, and severe birth defects, as well. In addition, there are a few intentional mistakes. If you are doing any of these, please check –

1. You might not be taking a sufficient amount of water and fluids.
2. Your fiber consumption is not appropriate.
3. You must be consuming more of diuretic fluids such as coffee.
4. Your consumption of processed carbohydrates and proteins must be higher than required.
5. You must be taking iron supplement pills.
6. Your physical activities are less than required.
7. You must be holding our poo for longer durations.

Here are a few symptoms of constipation during pregnancy. Should you experience any of these, please see your doctor/gynecologist immediately.

1. Reduced Intestinal Excretion
2. Loss of Hunger
3. Strain
4. Hard Seats
5. Painful Stool
6. Bleeding in The Stool
7. Bloating
8. Back Pain
9. Stomach Burns
10. Drowsiness
11. Tiredness
12. Stress

Now, that we are aware of causes and symptoms, let us learn about the treatment. There are several methods to treat it. To do so, we are here going to propose a few amendments in your diet-plan and lifestyle. Should you follow these, we can assure, there will be no scene of constipation.

Here, you need to add a few things in your diet plan.

Lemon – As we all know that lemon has antioxidant properties and is full of vitamin C. Hence, it is one of the best remedies used for treating constipation.

Oranges – Just like Lemons, oranges are also a rich source of vitamin C. However, do you know that oranges are excellent sources of fiber too? And, fiber is the best thing to have, when you are struggling with constipation.

ALSO READ – Pregnancy Diet – List of Foods To Avoid In Pregnancy

Prune Juice – Are you wondering, how prune juice (आलूबुखारे) is going to help you here? Let us tell you that prune juice contains a compound called sorbitol that has laxative properties. This can be very effective when you struggling with constipation.

Kiwi – Kiwi is a good source of Fiber. Hence, it can be very helpful for patients struggling with constipation.

Yogurt – Yogurt is the best you can have to avoid constipation. Do you know that yogurt is a rich source of probiotics, which can improve digestion and we know, improved digestion means no constipation?

Apple Juice – Apples are a good source of natural fiber called pectin that promotes intestinal movements. In addition, you can have sorbitol too that is known for its laxative properties, as we discussed earlier. The combination of these two components can help reduce constipation.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Like apple juice, apple cider vinegar contains pectin and acetic acid; good for constipation. You can have a good amount of magnesium from apple cider vinegar.

Coconut oil – Coconut oil contains fatty acids that energize intestinal cells and stimulate metabolism, thus a very good remedy for constipation.

Bananas – Bananas are a rich source fiber, hence having banana during pregnancy to cure constipation is a good idea.

ALSO READ – Caffeine Consumption During Pregnancy

Grapes – Try grapes; they are full of pectin, beneficial nutrients and antioxidants that are good for your overall health.

Yoga – With permission and under the supervision of an expert, you can start with exercises like pelvic and kegel exercises.

Daily Moderate Physical Activity – According to experts, moderate physical activity such as 20-30 minutes of walking 3 times a week is good. However, you must ask your doctor before starting.

Hydration – Staying hydrated during pregnancy is very important. For your information, during pregnancy women are at a higher risk of dehydration than before pregnancy.

Use English Toilet or Stool Chair – During pregnancy, please try to use English style toilet or use a toilet chair. Should you not use it, you will have to deal with pain in hemorrhoids. Help yourself with a small chair or stool.

Do You Have Any Question? Speak To Our Expert

We believe, these tips will help to relieve constipation. However, should you still experience the problem, you must get medical attention at the earliest possible, in order to avoid serious side effects.

In case, you have any suggestions to offer, please feel free to share with us.