What Is Safe To Take For Constipation While Pregnant

October 3, 2021

Can Constipation Hurt The Baby

Pregnancy Tips : How to Avoid Constipation While Pregnant

Many pregnant women who experience pain from constipation will have this concern, but constipation in pregnancy will not hurt your baby.

Another good thing to know if you do end up using a OTC laxative : most laxatives are not well absorbed into body and have not been shown to be a risk to the baby.

The real concern is for the mother herself, not the baby. In some cases, pregnancy constipation can lead to more uncomfortable and serious symptoms of pregnancy, including hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding, fecal impaction, and rectal fissures. Oh, the joys of pregnancy! But take heart, most moms find relieve to their constipation in pregnancy with natural remedies.

Lunestra Or Other Sleep Aids

Insomnia is very common during pregnancy. Before you resort to medications, we recommend the basic measure of examining your sleep habits:

For best sleep, dont exercise too close to bedtime plan your exercise for at least two hours before you go to bed.

Some women sleep better after drinking a cup of warm milk or herbal tea prior to bed. About two hours before bedtime, though, start limiting the amount of fluids you drink.
Establish a calming bedtime ritual, and follow it each night. Head to bed only when you are tired and ready to sleep.
Avoid watching TV, reading or eating in bed.

Try listening to relaxing music or white noise, such as nature sounds.
As your pregnancy progresses, it will become physically more difficult for you to get comfortable enough to sleep. You may want to try a body pillow, or try placing a pillow under your abdomen and between your knees while lying on your side.
If you cant fall asleep, dont stay in bed, feeling upset and frustrated. Get up, move to another room, and read or do another quiet activity. Stay up until you feel very drowsy; only then return to bed.

It’s best to avoid medications for insomnia, but if you find yourself so tired that you cant function during the day, talk with your provider about it. You may want to consider short-term sleep aids, including Benadryl , Ambien or Lunesta .

What Is Safe To Take During Pregnancy

If lifestyle changes don’t bring you relief, talk to your health care provider. They may suggest using over-the-counter stool softeners, such as Colace. Stool softeners, which are generally considered safe during pregnancy, add liquid content to the stool, making it easier to pass. Or they may recommend a fiber supplement, like Metamucil, to soften stool and ease constipation. Do not use any OTC product or medication during pregnancy without checking with your provider first.

While occasional constipation can cause abdominal pain, swelling and discomfort, this digestive problem isn’t usually harmful to mom or baby. In rare cases, chronic constipation can be a sign of another health issue. Contact your health care provider if you have severe constipation with abdominal pain, constipation that alternates with diarrhea, or if you have mucus or blood in your stool.

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Cant Poop Safe Constipation Remedies During Pregnancy

Written by our resident pharmacist, Yeniset Santana.

Not being able to poop is a common problem in pregnancy. Luckily there are a number of remedies you can use to help get things moving.

The safest way to relieve constipation during pregnancy is by introducing simple changes in your lifestyle . Some medications for constipation like bulk-forming agents and, osmotic and stimulant laxatives are also safe.

So How Often Should I be Pooping?

Its normal to poop from 3 times per day to 3 times a week. Sometimes during pregnancy you can experience fewer bowel movements than you would when not pregnant, but that does not necessarily mean that youre constipated.

However, if you have 2 bowel movements or less per week and 25% of your visits to the restroom are: painful, with a sensation of incomplete evacuation or with lumpy or hard stools.; Then you are constipated.

Laxatives in Post-Partum Patients

Why Pregnancy Can Make You Constipated

Pregnancy and constipation are closely related. The same hormones that help your body adjust to carrying a baby by expanding your uterus could also be relaxing your intestinal muscles and causing difficulties in the bathroom. Combine that with an increase in stress, anxiety, and getting less physical exercise than youâre used to, and thatâs a recipe for pregnancy constipation.

You may also be experiencing constipation during your pregnancy if your healthcare provider has prescribed you iron pills, which are known to cause constipation. If youâre taking iron, talk to your healthcare provider about constipation relief.

Feel lighter & energetic**

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What Helps Constipation Naturally While Pregnant

For example:

Drink plenty of fluids. Water is a good choice. Prune juice also can help.

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Being active can help prevent pregnancy constipation.

Include more fiber in your diet. Choose high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.

What You Should Not Do During Pregnancy To Get Relieved From Constipation

Never take any constipation or laxative pills to get relief from constipation. As such pills make urine contraction which may lead to dehydration. You also should not have any mineral oil rich food as it reduces absorption of nutrition. Do not have spicy and oily food as it has a natural tendency to harden the bowel movement.

Last but not least, relax and be stress free as much as you can, eat well and have lots of green vegetables, fruits and dont overwork. Increase your intake of water and juices than normal and off course do exercise, keep the movement on that will not only help in relieving constipation but a smoother delivery as well.

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How To Stop Using Laxatives

When your bowel movements occur regularly without difficulty, laxatives can be withdrawn gradually. The reduction in the dose of laxatives should be guided by the frequency and consistency of the stools.

Gradual withdrawal will reduce the risk of requiring re-initiation of therapy for recurrent fecal loading.

What Causes Pregnancy Constipation

Is it Normal to be Constipated While Pregnant?

The increasing level of progesterone hormone in pregnancy slows down the functioning of the gastrointestinal system, resulting in constipation.

Constipation and discomfort are higher in early pregnancy due to the backward tilting of the womb until about 12 weeks and a sudden change of progesterone level in the blood.

During the second and third trimesters, the pressure exerted by the growing womb on your bowels will intensify the problem. Also, consumption of iron and calcium supplements, low-fiber diet, lack of exercise, dehydration, worry, and anxiety might cause;or contribute to constipation. The rare and most severe causes include hemorrhoids and anal fissures .

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When To Call Your Doctor

Most doctors generally believe milk of magnesia is safe to use during pregnancy, even though there is limited evidence on whether or not the laxative can harm your developing baby. Just make sure you get the green light from your doctor before taking it. You also should adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding dosing and the length of time you can use the drug. Overdoing it can create a number of issues for you and your baby.

If, after taking the medication, you experience loose, watery stools that won’t go away or if you have blood in your stools, be sure to contact your doctor right away. You also should call your doctor immediately if you still cannot have a bowel movement and it has been six hours or more since you took milk of magnesia. You may have an underlying medical condition that needs treatment. So, don’t delay in reaching out for help.

Is Constipation A Sign Of Early Pregnancy

You betcha! Once an egg and a sperm unite, resulting in pregnancy, progesterone levels start to rise. Its this rise in progesterone that maintains the lining of the uterus, making it a great place for a baby to grow. Unfortunately, as mentioned above, progesterone relaxes the muscles of the intestinal wall, making it less capable of moving waste material through it .

If youre experiencing constipation in early pregnancy, hang on for the ridethis pregnancy symptom can stick around for all three trimesters.

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Other Medications Or Supplements

You can find a medication guide that offers additional suggestions about whats safe to take for headaches, morning sickness, congestion and other ills that may crop up during your pregnancy. Whether you are pregnant or are planning to get pregnant, if you have any questions about the safety of the medications or supplements you take, please talk to your health care provider right away.

Is Constipation During Pregnancy Ever Serious

4 Ways to Alleviate Constipation During Pregnancy

Usually not, but occasionally constipation during pregnancy can be a symptom of another problem. If you have severe constipation thats accompanied by abdominal pain, alternates with diarrhea, or you pass mucus or blood, call your doctor or midwife immediately.

Also, straining during a bowel movement or passing a hard stool can lead to or worsen hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in the rectal area. Hemorrhoids can be extremely uncomfortable, though they rarely cause serious problems. In most cases, they go away fairly soon after your baby is born. However, if the pain is severe, or if you have rectal bleeding, call your doctor.

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What Is Constipation During Pregnancy

Constipation is a common complaint of women who are pregnant. It affects up to 38% of women at some point during their pregnancy. Constipation can be painful and negatively affect your quality of life. It can also lead to physical problems like hemorrhoids if you don’t treat it.;

Symptoms of constipation during pregnancy

Symptoms of constipation can include any of the following:

Infrequent bowel movements

Hard, lumpy, or dry stool
A feeling like all of your stool hasn’t passed
Excessive straining to have a bowel movement;

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

If you are experiencing constipation during pregnancy, it may be a result of one of the following potential causes:;

Hormone changes in pregnancy

Not enough fiber in your diet;

Who can get constipation during pregnancy?

Any woman who is pregnant can experience constipation, but the following factors may increase your risk:

Age over 35
Pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index over 24;

What To Do About Pregnancy

Try these tips and tricks for pregnancy constipation relief:

1. Get more fiber. One of the best actions you can take when you feel constipated is to add more fiber to your diet. Some of the most fiber-rich foods are: almonds, lima beans, broccoli, chia seeds, brussels sprouts, chickpeas, and avocados . Adding a psyllium-based fiber supplement like Metamucil to your diet can also help boost your fiber intake and keep you regular.*

2. Drink more water. Water more important than ever during pregnancy, as it helps deliver essential nutrients to your baby. On top of that, it is also important to drink enough water to ensure that the fiber you eat can do its job and keep your system moving.

3. Exercise. If youâve ever felt the sudden need to use the bathroom when exercising, you know how getting your heart rate up can get your bowels active. Adding just 10-15 minutes of walking to your daily routine can help get things moving and relive constipation.

4. Plan a destressing activity. Pregnancy can be stressful enough without worrying about constipation. Do an activity that helps you destress, like taking a warm bath or joining a prenatal yoga class.

Tips To Prevent Constipation During Pregnancy

Constipation is difficulty having regular bowel movements . It is a common symptom of pregnancy. However, you do not necessarily have to suffer from constipation or irregular, hard bowel movements, and the pain associated with them when you’re pregnant.;There are things you can do to keep things moving along and prevent constipation during pregnancy.

Will It Affect My Baby

3 Simple Techniques To Combat Constipation During Pregnancy

If youre pregnant, you dont need to worry that constipation will affect your baby since the discomfort occurs in the mothers gut and bowels and isnt passed on to the baby. Most laxatives are not well absorbed into the bloodstream and can be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but always check with your pharmacist before taking a medicine while pregnant.

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Is Constipation A Sign Of Pregnancy

Constipation can occur during the first trimester, but it is not typically considered a first sign of pregnancy. Symptoms of pregnancy vary among women and among pregnancies. The first sign of pregnancy for many women tends to be a missed menstrual period. Swollen or tender breasts, fatigue, increased urination, nausea, and spotting or cramping can be other early signs of pregnancy.

Is It Safe To Take Laxatives During Pregnancy

Yes, it safe to take only some forms of laxatives during pregnancy. Options include milk of magnesia and Metamucil. Stronger laxatives are prescribed when these do not work,;but they come with risks and shouldnt be used without your doctors consent;.

You will be able to protect yourself from constipation by doing regular exercises and consuming plenty of water. To treat the issue effectively, you should seek advice from your doctor before using these remedies.

Have you tried any of these remedies for pregnancy constipation? Did they help? Share your experiences in the below comment section.

References:

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Could It Be A Sign Of Something More Serious

While most cases of constipation are not a sign of illness, sometimes there are complications such as haemorrhoids, faecal impaction or rectal prolapse. In rare cases, constipation can be caused by more serious conditions such as tumours.

Speak with your doctor if you are concerned, and especially if you notice blood in your stools.

Your Position On The Toilet

What is safe to take for constipation when pregnant ...

Having a good position on the toilet can help when you are emptying your bowels.

Use a small step or footstool under your feet. This helps you to get into the best position.

Lean forward, as much as your bump allows. Put your elbows on your knees. Try and keep your back straight.

Do not strain, and do not hold your breath. Taking long, slow, deep breaths through your mouth will help your tummy muscles relax.

How Can I Manage Constipation During Pregnancy

Lifestyle changes can often prevent and help ease pregnancy-related constipation:

Drink plenty of fluids. Taking in enough liquids can help move food through the digestive system. Note that fluid needs increase during pregnancy. Try to drink about 10 cups of water and other liquids every day.
Take in enough fiber. Fiber adds bulk to stool, which may increase how often you have bowel movements. Aim for at least 25 grams of fiber each day. Foods that contain fiber include whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables.
Exercise regularly. Inactivity increases your chance of constipation. Exercising during pregnancy can help you avoid constipation and improve your overall health. Strive to be active for 30 minutes, five days per week. Check with your health care provider before you increase your activity level.

If you take iron supplements and have constipation, talk to your health care provider about the best way to manage your symptoms. They may recommend that you meet your iron needs through diet or take smaller doses of the supplement throughout the day. Getting enough iron is important, especially during pregnancy, so do not stop taking the supplement without talking to your provider first.

Am I More Likely To Experience Constipation If I Had It Before Pregnancy

Women who have had constipation before pregnancy are, unfortunately, likely to experience worsening of symptoms during pregnancy.

If you have constipation and are planning a pregnancy, try to get into good habits before you become pregnant. Keeping to a healthy diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and doing regular exercise may help you maintain regular bowel motions.

It is better to prevent constipation early on rather than wait to treat it later.

Causes Of Constipation In Pregnancy

Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels during pregnancy slow down the time it takes food to go through our body.

Increased uterine size. Your growing uterus can cause a physical obstruction.

Iron supplementation. Most iron supplements list constipation as a potential side effect.

An increase in levels of sodium and water absorption in the colon leads to small, hard stools.

Low motilin, and activity of relaxin appear to change activity of muscle of the gastrointestinal tract.

Low ingestion of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber increases stools bulk, weight and frequency, and reduces the mean transit time.

For occasional constipation during pregnancy lifestyle changes are recommended first. Then if constipation persists some over-the-counter medications can be used if necessary.

However, you must talk to your healthcare provider if constipation becomes an ongoing problem, or you dont see improvement with these first and second line recommendations.

Cold And Cough Medicines

How Do I Relieve Constipation While Pregnant!

A number of nonprescription cold and cough medicines are safe during pregnancy. These include Tylenol , antihistamines such as Claritin and saline nasal sprays .

Other medications can be used short-term, including cough medicines such as Robitussin, or decongestants with the active ingredient of pseudoephedrine or phyenylephrine . If your symptoms last more than a week, see your medical provider for an exam and reassessment of the medicines you are taking.

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