Here Are 4 Major Causes of Constipation In Pregnancy And Tips To Get Relief!

Constipation during pregnancy is a common concern, often arising due to a combination of hormonal changes, increased pressure on the intestines from the growing uterus, and iron supplementation. These factors eventually disrupt regular bowel movements, leading to discomfort and inconvenience for expectant mothers. However, several strategies can provide relief for constipation in pregnancy, including dietary adjustments, regular exercise, and, if necessary, the use of over-the-counter remedies under medical guidance.

So, let us discuss how to get rid of constipation in pregnancy and prevent the issue beforehand to avoid the causes.

Table Of Contents

1. 4 Causes Of Constipation During Pregnancy

2. How To Fight Constipation During Pregnancy?

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

4 Causes Of Causes Of Constipation During Pregnancy

Constipation means you are having problems with having a stool. It happens when food your body no longer needs solidifies in the lower part of your digestive tract instead of being passed out as stool. Most people have had the unpleasant experience of constipation before, but constipation is a common problem during pregnancy: up to half of pregnant women become constipated at some point. Hormonal body changes that make pregnancy possible can increase your chances of constipation.

About 16 to 39% of people become constipated at some point during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during the pregnancy phase and your daily habits can increase your chances of constipation. 

Also Read: Isabgol For Constipation With Benefits And Usage

Let’s discuss these causes of constipation in pregnancy to prevent them:

1. Progesterone

Pregnancy triggers increased production of the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the intestines. While essential for pregnancy, this relaxation can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation.

2. Fetal Growth

As the fetus develops, the growing weight of the uterus puts pressure on the intestines. This added pressure can hinder the passage of waste through the digestive tract, contributing to constipation.

Also Read: 7 Common Causes Of Constipation In Women | ToneOpCare

3. Iron Supplementation

Many prenatal vitamins contain iron, which is vital for maternal and fetal health. However, excessive iron intake can impede the breakdown of food by gut bacteria, exacerbating constipation. Inadequate hydration compounds this issue, as insufficient water intake fails to soften stool, leading to accumulation and difficulty in passing waste.

4. Lifestyle Factors

Dietary choices, hydration levels, and physical activity all influence bowel regularity. A diet lacking in fibre, insufficient fluid intake, and sedentary habits can contribute to constipation during pregnancy. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet rich in fibre and fluids can help alleviate this discomfort.

Also Read: Significant Causes of Stomach Bloating in Female

How To Fight Constipation During Pregnancy?

Note these preventive tips you can do to fight against constipation:

Also Read: Benefits Of Fish Oil During Pregnancy Every Mom Should Know

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Constipation is common during pregnancy due to higher levels of the hormone progesterone in a woman's body. The hormone progesterone slows down the intestinal tract, so the stool sits in the intestine longer, and more water evaporates. Therefore, the stool becomes harder, which results in constipation. You can also try ToneOp Care’s Isab Go+ Sachets, however, make sure you consult with your doctor first. 

Dt. Lavina Chauhan

The Final Say

You may need to make some changes to manage constipation while pregnant. However, there are simple things you and your provider can do to help you get relief. The foods you eat, the required fluids you drink, the exercise you do, and the medications you take all have an effect.