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What is Pregnancy constipation?
Pregnancy Constipation is the condition in which you struggle to urinate or pass a bowel movement. It occurs when food that is no longer needed by your body (waste) hardens in the lower portion of your digestive system (bowel) rather than passing out as a stool. Constipation is a common problem that most people have experienced at some point, although it happens more often to pregnant women. Your risks of developing constipation may rise as a result of the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.
What Causes Constipation when Pregnant?
Progesterone
When you are pregnant, your body produces extra progesterone. Your bowels, or intestines, become more relaxed by progesterone, which makes it easier for them to push waste out of your body.
The fetus
Your uterus becomes heavier as the baby develops. This additional weight may place greater strain on your colon, which would make it more difficult for waste to leave your body.
Iron from your prenatal vitamin
The prenatal vitamin you are taking contains iron, which is necessary for your body to produce the blood that will carry oxygen to both you and your unborn child’s bodies. However, having too much iron might make it more difficult for the microorganisms in your gut to break down meals. It only becomes worse if you don’t drink enough water to soften the trash that is lodged in your bowels. Constipation may result from a buildup of waste.
Iron Deficiency Anemia During Pregnancy is also a vital thing to know about.
Lifestyle
Constipation is influenced by your food, how much fluid you drink each day, and how much exercise you get. The majority of pregnant women do not consume enough fiber, drink enough water, or exercise enough to aid in the movement of waste from the body.
Symptoms of Pregnancy constipation
It feels good to release a stool. Contrarily, constipation is uncomfortable. Constipation is detectable when:
- Only a few times each week can you go potty.
- Your tummy feels bloated and gassy, and you have to work hard to defecate.
- Your feces are stiff and lumpy when you urinate. They hurt to pass because they are so dry.
Hemorrhoids and anal fissures may sometimes be caused by or made worse by constipation. Both issues are typical during pregnancy, much like constipation.
How may constipation be treated when pregnant?
- Take 25–30 grams of fiber-rich foods daily.
- Each day, drink eight to twelve glasses of water.
- Change up your prenatal vitamin
- Get a moderate activity for 20 to 30 minutes three times each week.
