When Does Constipation Usually Start in Pregnancy: Indications and Ways to Address It

Distressing with bowel movements is never an acceptable experience, and during gestation, constipation contributes to its distinct difficulties, specifically when feeling less than your best.

When Does Constipation Usually Start in Pregnancy?

According to Michael Cackovic, MD, a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, constipation, described as having fewer than three bowel movements a week or experiencing challenges passing stool, is quite typical during gestation. While it doesn't injure the baby, it can certainly make you feel distressed.

Constipation can happen early in gestation and continue for numerous months. Julie Lamppa, CNM RN, a nurse-midwife at the Mayo Clinic, elucidates that it might start in the first trimester and persist even after giving birth. However, Lamppa reassures that early constipation doesn't certainly mean enduring it throughout the whole gestation.

What Causes Constipation During Pregnancy?

• Progesterone hormone: Raised levels of progesterone during gestation loosen up the intestines, slowing down bowel movements and permitting more time for water intake. This process results in dry and hard stools, making them a challenge to expel.
• Fetal weight: The developing fetus utilizes pressure on the uterus, which can constrict the bowel and hinder waste elimination.
• Iron supplementation: While important for blood production, enormous iron intake from prenatal vitamins can add to constipation by preventing the breakdown of food in the bowel. Insufficient water intake worsens this issue, resulting in stool accumulation and constipation.
• Lifestyle factors: Dietary choices, insufficient fluid intake, and lack of exercise are typical contributors to constipation during gestation. Many childbearing women may not eat up adequate fiber, and water, or immerse in frequent physical activity, which can compromise digestive function.

What are the Symptoms of Constipation?

• Occasional bowel movements, commonly less than a few times per week.
• Pain during bowel movements, accompanied by abdominal bloating and gas.
• Passage of hard, lumpy stools that are challenging and distressing to pass.
• Constipation can also raise the danger of hemorrhoids and anal fissures, both typical conditions during gestation.

How to Alleviate Constipation During Pregnancy?

• Raise intake of fiber-rich foods to 25 to 30 grams daily: Including fiber in the diet can essentially help soothe the stools, making them easier to expel. Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lentils are great sources of fiber. It's important to monitor the fiber intake, especially if experiencing constipation, as inadequate fiber consumption may be an adding factor.
• Stay hydrated by drinking eight to 12 cups of water daily: During gestation, the body needs added fluids to support the developing baby and soften stools. Water is the best choice, but can also choose low-fat milk, smoothies, tea, or unsweetened juices if prefer. Guaranteeing sufficient hydration is important for maintaining healthy bowel movements.
• Immerse in moderate exercise for 20 to 30 minutes three times a week: Physical activity can assist in provoking bowel movements and avoiding constipation. Despite the difficulties of pregnancy-related weight gain and pelvic displeasure, including regular exercise, the habit can ensure bowel motility. Consult a healthcare provider for safe exercise advice tailored to your gestation.
• Consider switching to a different prenatal vitamin: The iron content in the prenatal vitamin might be annoying your constipation. Consult with a healthcare provider to explore alternate prenatal vitamins with lower iron levels, which may be gentler on the digestive system.

If constipation continues despite these measures, it's recommended to consult a doctor or midwife for further guidance. It's important to address any constant concerns for your well-being and the health of your baby.