What Can I Take During Pregnancy For Constipation, Expert Tells

If your pregnancy glow is dimmed by an uncomfortable, frustrating feeling of being backed up, you're certainly not alone. Constipation is one of the most common, yet least discussed, side effects of pregnancy. Constipation during pregnancy happens due to hormones named progesterone, which also relaxes muscles, including those in your intestines, and the expanding baby pressing on your intestines. While it's annoying, the better news is that constipation is usually harmless to your baby, and there are lots of easy, effective, and, most importantly, safe solutions to get relief. 

So we decided to reach out to our expert, Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant and General Physician, Sharda Hospital - Noida, and he explained to us simple ways to prevent and manage constipation during pregnancy.

Lifestyle Changes To Avoid Constipation During Pregnancy.

“Before reaching for any medication, try natural, lifestyle-based remedies first. These are the cornerstones of healthy digestion and are safe for you and your baby,” suggested Dr Srivastav. Here are a few things you can try:

1. Hydration is Key

Adequate hydration is non-negotiable, especially if you’re increasing your fibre intake. Fibre draws water in to help soften your stool, and without enough fluid, it can have the opposite effect of making constipation worse.

Try for eight to 13 cups (about two to three litres) of fluid per day. Water is ideal, but clear broths and natural fruit juices (such as prune juice) also qualify.

Also Read: Is There A Link Between Hydration and Mental Clarity? Expert Shares Why 13 Glasses A Day Is Ideal

2. Increase Fibre Consumption

As explained above, fibre bulks up the stool so it's simpler to pass. Aim for about 25 to 30 grams of dietary fibre per day. Focus on fresh fruits (especially berries, pears, and prunes), vegetables (leafy greens, carrots, beans), legumes, and whole grains (oats, whole wheat bread). “Increase your fibre intake gradually to avoid excessive gas and bloating,” he added.

3. Exercise

Regular, moderate physical activity helps stimulate the bowels. “You don't need intense workouts, just 20 to 30 minutes of gentle exercise a few times a week can make a difference,” said Dr Srivastav. Safe Choices to consider are walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. Always consult your provider regarding a safe exercise regimen.

4. Monitor Your Iron Intake

Though necessary to prevent anaemia, the iron in most prenatal vitamins is a well-known cause of constipation. Discuss the following things with your doctor beforehand:

• Switching to another formulation or brand of prenatal vitamins.
• Take your iron supplement at a different time of day.
• Adding a stool softener if a high-iron dose is medically required.

Over-the-Counter Alternatives (After Speaking to Your Provider)

If dietary changes are not sufficient, some over-the-counter (OTC) alternatives are generally safe during pregnancy, but you should always speak with your healthcare provider first. They include:

1. Bulk-Forming Laxatives

These are most commonly the first kind of medicine a doctor will prescribe. They work by soaking up water in the colon, creating a soft, bulky stool, similar to food fibre. Always drink them down with a full glass of water to avoid them blocking the system.

2. Stool Softeners

Stool softener products are active by virtue of their capacity to increase the amount of moisture absorbed by the stool, softening it and facilitating its passage. Since their active ingredients are poorly absorbed by the body, they are also safe.

3. Osmotic Laxatives

Osmotic laxatives act by bringing water into the bowel, which softens stool and promotes bowel movement. They are usually not well absorbed by the body.

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Medications to Avoid Generally

“Although all drugs need a physician's permission, some remedies are best avoided except under specific instruction from your healthcare practitioner,” Dr Srivastav highlighted. These include:

• Stimulant Laxatives: They stimulate muscle contraction in the intestines. Although usually safe for short-term use, regular or prolonged use in pregnancy is usually avoided because they are possibly to cause dehydration or alteration of electrolytes.
• Mineral Oil: It lowers the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), which are very important for your baby's growth.
• Castor Oil: Stimulates the bowels and is normally avoided since it can potentially cause uterine contractions.

Bottomline

Navigating pregnancy constipation is a safe and manageable process, starting with increased water and fibre intake, along with gentle exercise. When lifestyle changes aren't enough, talk to your doctor about safe options like bulk-forming laxatives or stool softeners.