Constipation During Pregnancy - Is Constipated Pregnancy Common?
There are three main reasons responsible for constipation during pregnancy. One or more of these reasons can make the pregnant women constipated. So if you are pregnant and constipated - don't worry just take care!
Increased female hormone (Progesterone) levels during pregnancy on one side helps healthy progression of the pregnancy but on the other side relaxes the digestive track.
This slows down bowel movement causing constipation. Nothing much can be done about it as it is a natural process. You need to deal with it by changing eating habits to neutralize its impact.
At later stages of pregnancy, pressure of growing uterus on the rectum causes constipation. This once again is unavoidable and needs to be dealt with. Yoga and exercises will help.
Taking Iron supplements is one of the other causes of constipation during pregnancy. Changing supplements and eating iron rich food can help significantly to reduce constipation.
Signs and Symptoms of Constipation During Pregnancy
Depending on the number of regular motions you missed you can be considered constipated. As a rule of thumb, if you didn't have bowel movements for 4 days then you certainly are constipated.
If the Faeces are hard and difficult to pass then you are getting constipated. If you are passing Faeces but feel that all Faeces are not completely passed then it is sign that you are constipated.
Sometimes constipation can cause lower abdomen pain.
If you bleed then you must bring it to the notice of your gynecologist. You may not be bleeding but straining which may develop hemorrhoids that may bleed sooner or later.
Rarely any of the constipation signs are serious but keeping your doctor in the loop is always better if you feel any irregularity in your bowel movements or rectum itching and pain.
How to Prevent Constipation During Pregnancy?
You certainly can ease it. It will be almost impossible to not get constipated at least a few times during the entire 9 months of pregnancy. Therefore you need to learn to deal with it and ease it rather than trying to prevent it completely.
Eating food rich in fiber such as cereals, whole grain breads and fruits and vegetables in small quantities throughout the day will help easing constipation.
Drinking a lot of water, at least a glass every hour helps not only in easing constipation but also maintains your energy levels high by keeping you hydrated.
Yoga and exercises should become part of your daily routine. Simple walking, swimming and breathing exercises will not only help you ease constipation but also improve health of pregnancy progression.
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