How to Relieve Pregnancy Constipation

Constipation is a common complaint during pregnancy, affecting approximately one out of every three women. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the condition of constipation involves three factors: abdominal discomfort, difficult and infrequent bowel movements, and hard stools. Hormonal changes, a slowing of the digestive process and the ingestion of iron supplements can all lead to uncomfortable constipation in pregnant women, according to the Mayo Clinic. Anxiety, dietary changes and a reduction in physical activity are other contributing factors. Fortunately, there are many safe options available to relieve pregnancy constipation.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter fiber supplement
• Hemorrhoid cream, if needed

Instructions

How to Relieve Pregnancy Constipation

1. Eat a high-fiber diet throughout your pregnancy to both prevent and treat constipation. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, bran and prunes are excellent sources of fiber and other nutrients.

2. Drink at least ten 8-ounce glasses or four 20-ounce bottles of fluid each day for a total of 80 ounces. Water is best, but natural fruit juices also work well to relieve constipation during pregnancy. If you exercise frequently, live in a very hot or humid climate or are sweating more than usual, you should increase your fluid intake even more.

3. Walk, swim or take part in other pregnancy-safe forms of exercise. Increasing your activity level will help stimulate your bowels. Ideally, you should exercise three or four times each week, for a minimum of 20 minutes each day. Ask your obstetrician if exercise is safe for your individual pregnancy before beginning a new routine.

4. Take an over-the-counter fiber supplement, such as Metamucil, to relieve constipation that has failed to respond to an increase in dietary fiber and fluid intake.

5. Reduce or rearrange your iron supplements. High doses of iron, such as those contained in many prenatal vitamins, may cause constipation in some pregnant women. If you believe iron is causing or contributing to your constipation, ask your doctor if you can reduce your dose or take smaller doses throughout the day.

6. Ask your doctor for a prescription stool softener. A number of medications are available by prescription that are mild and safe to take during pregnancy.

7. Avoid using stimulant laxatives during pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association warns that stimulants may cause pre-term labor and should only be taken under orders by your obstetrician. Stimulant laxatives may also trigger diarrhea and dehydration.

Tips & Warnings

• According to the Nemours Foundation, hemorrhoids are a common complication of constipation during pregnancy. The pain and itching of hemorrhoids can be relieved by soaking in a tub or using over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams.

• Mineral oils should be avoided during pregnancy, as they interfere with the absorption of nutrients from the diet.

Resources

• Mayo Clinic
• American Pregnancy Association
• Nemours Foundation