Constipation in pregnancy
If you have just found out you’re pregnant,
are about to give birth or are nursing your newborn, then
your health and that of your baby will naturally be top priority.
You have probably heard about customary health complaints
to expect during your pregnancy such as nausea and heartburn.
However other common health complaints
such as constipation, which can be just as bothersome,
are often left out of conversations.
Vomiting and nauseaWhilst there is no shortage of advice available on
the pregnancy health ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’, 43% of
mums-to-be admit they are confused by conflicting
health advice they receive. Managing and treating
constipation is no exception – two thirds did not know pharmacy treatments can be used in pregnancy
when diet and lifestyle treatments are not enough.
This section will provide advice on managing
constipation in pregnancy and also helps to dispel
the common diet and lifestyle misconceptions,
so you can feel as happy and healthy
throughout your pregnancy and beyond.
Why am I constipated?
The hormonal factor
During pregnancy, your body produces more of the female hormone progesterone, which can act as a muscle relaxant, making it more difficult for the bowel muscles to contract and harder to move waste products along.
Diet and supplements
Prenatal supplements containing iron can be a contributing factor to constipation. Different eating habits due to cravings or a change in taste can also impact on your digestive health, particularly if your fibre intake is reduced.
Your blossoming bump
Pressure from the growing baby on the bowel may also cause slower bowel movements.
Post pregnancy
Almost 1 in 3 women lead increasingly sedentary lifestyles during pregnancy and over a quarter have taken supplements containing iron which can exacerbate constipation.After childbirth, some women can have bowel problems and suffer from constipation. Constipation can also be a problem when breastfeeding if you forget to drink enough water.
Constipation can leave you feeling sluggish and low on energy on top of all the other changes you’re noticing! The good news is that you can help to prevent a bout of constipation through lifestyle and dietary changes.
Managing and preventing constipation
If you have noticed a change in the frequency or consistency of your bowel movements since becoming pregnant you can try:
Gradually increasing your intake of foods that are high in fibre, such as wholemeal breads, wholegrain cereals, fruit and vegetables, and pulses such as beans and lentils- Increasing your water intake to two litres each day, especially during warmer weather or if you are increasing the fibre in your diet
- Exercising regularly. Whilst exercising to lose weight during pregnancy is not advised, gentle activities such as walking or yoga can help your body to adjust to your changing shape
- There is a link between iron supplements and constipation. You may wish to consult your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects with your supplement as they may be able to recommend you a different type. Alternatively, try taking your iron supplements with fresh orange juice which can aid digestion of the iron.
If these dietary and lifestyle changes are not enough you can talk to your healthcare professional about treatments which are not absorbed by the digestive system. These treatments may therefore be suitable for use in pregnancy or during breastfeeding.
You should always speak to your healthcare professional before using a medicine in pregnancy or whilst breastfeeding.
Dulcobalance is the product in our range suitable for pregnant and breast-feeding women however you should always speak to your doctor before taking any medicines in pregnancy
