Facing Constipation During Pregnancy? 3 Ways to Help You

Constipation can be very annoying, especially when you're pregnant. With a big belly, you can’t push too hard or sit on the toilet for too long. It can be tough when you try hard but nothing happens. 

Why Constipation Happens During Pregnancy

Constipation is common in pregnancy because of changes in your body:

• Hormones: More pregnancy hormones slow down your intestines.
• Supplements: Taking calcium and iron can cause constipation.
• Diet Changes: Eating too much meat and not enough vegetables can cause constipation.
• Less Exercise: Moving less during pregnancy slows down your intestines.
• Uterus Pressure: The growing baby presses on your intestines. 

Three Ways to Help Constipation

1. Eat Better

Eat foods with fiber to help your intestines move better:

• Fiber Foods: Corn, black rice, sweet potatoes, beans, peas, pumpkins, celery, spinach, mushrooms, black fungus, pears, dragon fruit, cherries, black sesame, almonds, pine nuts.
• Sorbitol Foods: Prunes, pears, apples, plums. 
• Fructose Foods: Pears, apples, figs, pomegranates.
• Butyrate Foods: Brown rice, lentils. 
• Sulforaphane Foods: Cauliflower, broccoli, kale.

Eat fiber slowly at first to avoid gas. Drink 1.5 to 2 liters of water every day to help soften your stool.

2. Exercise

Exercise helps your intestines move. Health guidelines say 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, like walking or leg lifts, is good if there are no complications. 

3. Good Bathroom Habits

• Try to have a bowel movement in the morning or after meals when your intestines are most active.
• Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the need. Waiting can make it harder to pass stool.
• Focus on the task without distractions like your phone to avoid staying on the toilet too long. If you exceed 10 minutes, get up and walk around. 

Safe Medication for Constipation

If you are very constipated for several days, you can try lactulose. It is safe and works well during pregnancy, approved by the FDA and recognized by the World Gastroenterology Organization. 

If lactulose doesn’t help, ask your doctor for other options. Avoid using glycerin suppositories, castor oil, and mineral oils because they can cause problems like contractions. 

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only, not medical advice from TCE Baby. Consult professionals for personalized guidance.