Constipation during pregnancy

It is estimated that one in five women get constipation during pregnancy, many of whom have never had constipation before. There are a variety of reasons for this.

Hormonal changes affect bowel movements. During pregnancy, the body produces more progesterone, which relaxes the muscles to allow the baby to grow. However, the wall of the intestine is made of muscle, too. As the progesterone makes it relax, it can become less efficient at moving along food and waste.

Many women take iron supplements during pregnancy which can also be a contributing factor to constipation. Tastes can change at this time and many women alter their diet. This change in eating habits can also affect bowel activity, particularly if it means a reduction in fibre-rich foods.

The growing baby puts pressure on the bowel, while the discomfort of its weight and general tiredness may lead to a lack of exercise. Both can slow down bowel movements.

Even after pregnancy, some 29% of women continue to get constipation.

I still suffered from constipation even after I had the baby. Maybe you are more aware of what goes on down there when you have had a child. You are more stressed having a new baby, you're run down, everything... You are not eating properly, and worrying about going back to work

Constipation Relief during Pregnancy

• Increase your fibre intake
  Your digestive system may need a little help during this exciting time. Eating more fibre-rich foods, like fruit, vegetables, cereals and wholemeal bread will help provide the necessary roughage to keep your system moving.

• Drink plenty of fluids
  Drinking a lot of fluid helps keep the stool soft and easy to pass. At least 7-8 glasses a day is recommended. You can drink as much water and fruit juices (particularly prune juice) as you like and even a little tea or coffee counts towards the total.

• Make sure you get enough exercise
  Although you may feel heavy and uncomfortable, exercise helps prevent your digestive system becoming 'sluggish'. Safe exercise during pregnancy includes walking, swimming and other low-impact activity where there is little chance of sprains or accidents. Approximately 20-30 minutes of exercise two or three times a week can have a beneficial effect, not only for your digestive system, but also your general well-being.

• Your doctor may suggest a remedy.
  (always read the label and consult a doctor before using any medicines in pregnancy)

  - A simple way to help maintain regularity is by taking Fybogel, which is safe for use throughout pregnancy. Fybogel granules are dissolved in a glass of water to make a convenient drink which is easy to take and speeds up the passage of waste through the bowel. (contains ispaghula husk - always read the label and consult a doctor before using any medicines in pregnancy).

The New Arrival

Click here to find out about childhood constipation.