OVERVIEW
How do you know if constipation is a problem?
Being diagnosed with constipation is when you’re having trouble pooping or you’re experiencing a bowel movement. It happens when food the body no longer requires (waste) is absorbed into the lower portion of the digestive tract (bowel) rather than being able to move out as stool. A majority of people have had an unpleasant feeling of becoming constipated in the past but it’s much more frequent during pregnancy. The hormonal changes that occur within your body that allow pregnancy to occur can increase the likelihood of becoming constipated.
When does constipation in pregnancy start?
It is possible that you will be constipated after the hormone levels increase in your body to help support your pregnancy. Changes can occur in either the third or second month of your first trimester.
What is the prevalence of constipation pregnancies?
Around 16 to 39% of women become constipated in the course of pregnancy. The most likely time to become constipated is during the third trimester when the fetus weighs the most and is exerting the greatest pressure on the bowel. Constipation is common during all three trimesters, however. There are times when you’ll be constipated for as long as three months after your baby is born.
SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES
What is the cause of constipation during pregnancy?
Hormone levels change within the body of pregnant women, as well as your lifestyle can increase your risk of constipation. The causes of constipation during pregnancy are:
- Progesterone: Your body produces more progesterone in the case of pregnancy. Progesterone reduces the size of your intestines or bowel, to ensure that they don’t have to work harder to push the waste from your body. The slower metabolism allows your body to absorb water and nutrients from your food. The longer food stays in your bowels, the longer your large colon (colon) must absorb the water from it. The waste is then dry and is difficult to pass through when trying to poop.
- The Fetus: The growing fetus can make your uterus heavier. The extra weight could put greater stress on your bowels which makes it more difficult for waste to move through your body.
- The iron you get from your prenatal vitamin: The iron that you get in the vitamins for prenatal assists your body in producing the blood that circulates oxygen throughout your as well as your baby’s body. High iron content can make it difficult for the bacteria within your bowels to break down food, however. Insufficient water intake to help soften the waste stuck in your bowel causes the problem to get worse. The waste may accumulate, which can cause constipation.
- Lifestyle: Your diet, the number of fluids you consume daily, and how you exercise contribute to creating constipation. Many women who are pregnant aren’t taking in enough fiber or fluids or exercising enough to aid the digestive system flush waste from their bodies.
What are the signs of constipation?
It is enjoyable to release a stool. Constipation, however, feels like the opposite. You’ll know you’re constipated by:
- The only time you can poop is every few days.
- You have to strain to pee and your stomach is full and gassy.
- When you pee your stool, it’s tough and lumpy. They’re so dry that getting them can be painful.
Constipation may cause or worsens hemorrhoids as well as intramural fissures. Like constipation, both of these conditions are commonplace during pregnancy.
Does constipation indicate pregnancy?
There are times when you feel constipated pregnant, however, being constipated does not mean that you’re pregnant. There are other ways to know whether you’re pregnant by performing the pregnancy test.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS
What is the best way to have constipation during pregnancy identified?
Your physician could ask you how often you’re peeing and what the stools look like. Other questions regarding your daily routine can help your doctor discover what’s the cause of your constipation or what’s aggravating it. Your doctor may inquire:
- How you eat and how much water you’re drinking every day.
- If you’re doing exercise or participating in enough physical activities.
- What medications or supplements are you taking?
MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT
How can you ease constipation while pregnant?
The hormones of pregnancy can’t stop making it more difficult for you to poop, however, there are other adjustments that can aid.
- Consume 25–30 grams of high-fiber food items each throughout the day: It’s easy to ignore the advice for health that seems simple, such as “just eat right.” But, in reality, fiber is a great asset. Fiber helps soften your stools, making them easier to get rid of. It is available in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains as well as beans, lentils, and peas. Make sure to determine the number of grams you’re getting from the food you consume. If you’re experiencing constipation, it’s likely that you’re not getting enough fiber. Consult the best gastroenterologist in Delhi for personalized dietary recommendations.
- Drink between eight and 12 cups of water daily: Ignore your mind that states that you need only 8 cups of fluid each day. eight cups are the absolute amount you need when you’re pregnant. You’ll need more fluid than normal to help support the pregnancy and also to help soften your stool. It’s best to drink water but if you’re an advocate, consider other beverages. Smoothies, low-fat milk as well as tea, and juices that contain zero added sugars are excellent alternatives.
- You should aim for 20-30 hours of exercise 3 times per every week: It’s typical to get around less during pregnancy. It’s a lot of weight to carry. The pregnancy can strain the pelvic area as well as joints, making it difficult to move around. However, sitting can be detrimental to the bowel, especially If you’re constipated. The waste sits in the bowel. Consult your physician regarding workouts suitable for your needs that are safe to stimulate muscles in your colon.
- Choose another prenatal vitamin: The iron you get from the vitamin you take for your pregnancy could be too excessive for the digestive tract to manage. Your doctor may suggest a different vitamin that has less iron.
What medicines can I take to ease constipation if I’m pregnant?
If you aren’t able to find relief by making lifestyle changes, your physician might prescribe a laxative or supplements with fiber that could aid. Always check with your physician prior to taking any medications or laxatives. None of them has been evaluated for their safety and effectiveness during pregnancy. Do not use home remedies to treat constipation, such as mineral oil or castor oil, unless your doctor suggests you do so.
What are the side adverse effects of treatment?
Certain laxatives can cause you to be dehydrated and cause imbalances in electrolytes. It’s crucial to ensure that you’re taking the correct laxative, and taking it for the correct duration. Consult your doctor to be certain.
PREVENTION
What can I do to reduce my chances of becoming constipated in pregnancy?
You can lower the chance of developing constipation by following the same things that you take to control constipation. Take note of how much fiber you’re eating and how much fluid you’re drinking. Make a schedule of exercise that’s manageable for you. Yoga, swimming, walking pilates, light aerobics, and pilates are all excellent alternatives to keep your bowel healthy.
OUTLOOK / PROGNOSIS
What do I need to know in the event that I’m constipated throughout my pregnancy?
After you’ve given birth to your child as well as your hormonal levels begin returning to the levels they were before pregnancy, your bowel movements should get back to normal.
LIVING WITH
When should I go to see my doctor?
Contact your doctor If you’ve experienced constipation for more than a few weeks. Don’t be afraid of going to the bathroom if your doctor can assist you. Make sure you get your doctor’s approval for the medication you’re taking while you’re pregnant. That includes fiber supplementation as well as laxatives.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does constipation harm the baby during pregnancy?
No. The pressure that accumulates inside your stomach because of constipation can cause you to feel anxious for your child. But don’t stress. Constipation might be unpleasant however it will not cause harm to your baby.
A note from the Medigest Clinic
It’s possible that you’ll need to change your lifestyle to help manage constipation when pregnant. However, there are some simple steps you and your physician can take to give relief. Food choices as well as your fluids, exercise you engage in and the medication you consume all can