Pregnancy and Constipation - Discussion and Tips

Pregnancy and constipation tend to go hand-in-hand. While constipation might not be one of the primary concerns when it comes to having a healthy pregnancy, it can definitely lead to discomfort and, in some cases, pain.

Many women wish to have natural pregnancies and only wish to use modern technology and medicines when completely necessary. Luckily, there are ways to deal with constipation during pregnancy the natural way, at least in most cases.

So why do women get constipated during pregnancy? What are some possible causes of the link between pregnancy and constipation?

Late in a pregnancy, the uterus will grow larger and can sometimes rest on your rectum, leading to problems. In addition, the hormone progesterone is increased during pregnancy, and it can slow down your digestive track. Many women must take iron supplements during pregnancy, too, and constipation can often be a side effect of these.

If you feel as though you need to use the restroom, then do so. Even public places with "no public restroom" signs are generally sympathetic to a pregnant woman who needs to use the facility. Delaying a bowel movement is not good for your digestive track, and certainly increases the pregnancy and constipation link.

You should also ensure that you are drinking enough water. Water will help flush out your system and keep your digestive system on track. It is also important to drink plenty of water if you are taking iron supplements.

In addition, some juices like apple, prune, and papaya have natural laxative qualities and can be helpful. Try not to consume too much prune juice, however, or your system might flush out too quickly and diarrhea could ensue.

Getting plenty of fiber into your diet will help keep you regular, thus keeping the pregnancy and constipation problem away. You can try adding more fiber friendly foods to your diet, or you can possibly take fiber supplements, too. However, it is wise to talk to your health care provider before taking anything.

If you are not used to a lot of fiber intake, then you should introduce it into your life gradually. If you begin eating a lot of fiber right away, then you might experience bloating, which can make the constipation even more uncomfortable.

Although women with pregnancy and constipation might not be open to the idea of exercise at first, especially in the later stages of pregnancy, exercise can be beneficial for both conditions. Not only is it important to get enough exercise when you are pregnant, but exercise can also help alleviate constipation. You should avoid strenuous exercise, of course, but taking simple walks either around your yard or around your neighborhood can help stimulate a bowel movement as well as get your blood circulating.

If you are taking iron supplements and are constipated, then talk to your health care practitioner about switching you to a lower dose or eliminating them all together. However, never just stop taking them on your own.

If you are going through pregnancy and constipation, then it is important that you don't take any over the counter laxatives or mineral oils. Laxatives can increase the risk for dehydration and can also cause uterine contractions, which could bring on premature labor. Mineral oils can result in a reduction of the absorption of critical nutrients.

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