Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences in any woman’s life. However the changes and some discomforting signs that occur during pregnancy can be difficult to handle. One of these changes or possible problems includes constipation during pregnancy.
Constipation refers to the condition where a woman has dry stools and passing these becomes an ordeal in itself. constipation during pregnancy can start during the conception stage itself and this problem can persist throughout the term of the pregnancy period.
constipation during pregnancy is primarily caused because of hormonal changes. The system slows down in expelling the stools and it loses water and thereby becomes hard. Constipation during the first trimester is often caused because of progesterone.
This progesterone results in slowing down of the intestinal activity. During the later part of the pregnancy period constipation is caused because of the pressure of the uterus on the intestine and the rectum. This pressure makes the system sluggish and thereby causes constipation during pregnancy.
During the pregnancy term the woman is required to consume supplements and iron supplements form a major part of this intake. These iron supplements are required to be taken so as to prevent the occurrence of anemia. However these iron supplements often have a constipating effect. A woman’s body during pregnancy is put through a great deal of stress. Emotionally also the woman may often feel stressed out and this in turn can result in constipation.
Women that are prone to constipation even during the pre pregnancy days are more like to experience constipation during pregnancy. Exercise during pregnancy is crucial not only for general well being but also because it helps in combating the problem of constipation.
Women that tend to lead more of a sedentary lifestyle are more likely to suffer from this problem. A common symptom of constipation during pregnancy is lack of bowel movement for many days. Women suffering from this problem may also feel uneasy, bloated and experience excessive farting.
constipation during pregnancy can often be identified when the woman feels that she has not been able to completely empty her bowels. There are some ways wherein the constipation problem can either be reduced or resolved. Drinking water helps in reducing the problem of constipation. It is advisable for women to drink a minimum amount of 8 glasses of water every day.
It is also advisable to start off the day by consuming warm water. Some women may fell nauseous if they try to consume warm water and in that case it is best to avoid it. Fruit juices can also be consumed as these help in reducing the problem of constipation.
Prune juice in particular is extremely effective in resolving the problem of constipation during pregnancy. Eating prunes, apricots, figs and dried fruits can also help. Abdominal massage should be completely avoided in pregnancy. Women should avoid eating food items such as cakes, jelly, ice-cream and beverages that are fizzy. Caffeine should be minimized in pregnancy. Exercise is crucial in pregnancy and can help reduce the problem of constipation.
Fiber is important and so women should ensure that they consume food items rich in fiber. Cereals, vegetables and fruits should be consumed. While consumption of fiber is important it should be ensured that enough water is consumed.
Processed food should be avoided and pre-cooked or instant meals should also be avoided as this can aggravate the constipation problem. Taking laxatives should be completely avoided unless the doctor has prescribed them. In case blood or mucus is observed in the stools and if the feeling of constipation is accompanied by abdominal pain or diarrhea then the doctor should be immediately called.
