Changes in hormones and changes in body build are responsible for the constipation commonly found in pregnancy. Constipation during pregnancy leads to pains in the abdomen, backache, bloating, piles, tiredness, and headaches.
Constipation in early pregnancy can be managed through lifestyle changes like increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated, and being active, which can be influenced by dietary adjustments, iron supplements, and insufficient fibre-rich food intake.
Prenatal multivitamins are essential for pregnant women but may cause side effects like constipation, stomach upset and diarrhoea. Prenatal vitamins help in fulfilling nutritional gaps during pregnancy. Some prenatal vitamins for pregnancy cause constipation. Trimacare multivitamin for pregnant women, formulated for Indian women, is the best option, providing trimester-wise care and is easily digestible.
Trimacare pregnancy multivitamin provides a convenient and trimester-specific solution for easy digestion. The bowel regulator present in the Trimacare 3 prenatal pill safeguards pregnant women from constipation.
CAUSES OF CONSTIPATION DURING PREGNANCY
Constipation in early pregnancy can result from hormonal fluctuations, including an increase in the levels of progesterone that relaxes intestinal muscles, a growing uterus, dietary changes, iron supplements, reduced physical activity, and less fluid intake.
- Hormonal changes- Pregnancy triggers several changes in the body, one of which is the high production of the progesterone hormone. This hormone slows down digestion and may lead to constipation.
- Lack of Physical Activity – Inactivity increases the risk of constipation. Exercise, such as walking and swimming, stimulates the bowels and can be done thrice a week for 20-30 minutes.
- Taking insufficient fluids – Consuming ample fluids, especially with increased fibre intake, is crucial for softer stools and waste elimination. Pregnant women may experience dehydration due to insufficient water intake and morning sickness, which can result in constipation.
- Changes in Diet- Taking a diet not rich in fibre rich foods can lead to constipation, especially in pregnant women who may experience changes in taste and preferences.
- Increased Pressure on the Intestines: During pregnancy, the baby grows, and the uterus expands, which may increase pressure on the intestines. This may lead to constipation or slow digestion.
- Iron Supplements: Pregnant women frequently use iron supplements to prevent anaemia, but they may experience constipation during pregnancy as a side effect.
WAYS TO MANAGE PREGNANCY CONSTIPATION
Here are effective tips for dealing with constipation while pregnant:
Dietary Adjustments:
Fiber-rich Diet: Take in high-fibre foods like fruits (apples, berries), vegetables (broccoli, spinach), whole grains (oats, brown rice), legumes (beans, lentils), and nuts in your meal.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day to soften stools and prevent dehydration, a common cause of constipation.
Change in the lifestyle:
Regular Exercise: Engage in light exercises recommended by your healthcare provider, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, to stimulate bowel movements.
Regular Bathroom Habits: Develop a schedule for regular bathroom visits, as this promotes regular bowel movements.
Consult a doctor: See your doctor for stool softeners or fibre supplements that are safe for use during pregnancy.
Avoid Self-Medication: It is vital to consult your doctor before using over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies for constipation during pregnancy.
Stress Management: Stress can negatively impact digestion, so it’s good to engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or prenatal massages to manage stress.
Regular Consultation with your doctor: If you are pregnant and have constipation, stay in communication with your doctor. If you have chronic or worsening constipation, discuss appropriate safe pregnancy constipation management.
Iron Supplements: Consult your doctor about the adjustment of your iron pregnancy vitamin supplement dosage or obtain alternative forms to diminish constipation.
Healthy Eating Patterns: If you are pregnant and constipated, ensure proper nutrition for both you and your baby, prioritize balanced meals, smaller portions, and frequent snacks.
Medical Evaluation: Seeking prompt medical assistance is crucial if constipation is accompanied by extreme discomfort, blood, or other worrying symptoms.
TRIMACARE PRENATAL VITAMIN HELPS IN COMBATING CONSTIPATION DURING PREGNANCY
Trimacare pregnancy multivitamins fulfil all the nutritional requirements of pregnancy through a 20+ essential nutrient mother in one prenatal pill. Trimacare is a plant-based pregnancy supplement free of chemicals and safe to be taken at any stage of pregnancy.
Trimacare 2 and Trimacare 3 pregnancy vitamins tablets contain Time-Release Iron, which reduces gastrointestinal discomfort associated with typical iron pills, preventing bloating, and turning stool black. Trimacare 3 prenatal tablets with iron alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating associated with iron pills, unlike other prenatal vitamins that may cause black faeces. Trimacare 3 prenatal supplements for pregnancy also contain a bowel regulator that helps relieve maternal constipation.
Constipation during pregnancy is a common discomfort experienced by pregnant women. Constipation in early pregnancy can be managed through dietary adjustments, exercise, and doctor consultation which can alleviate discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What causes constipation during pregnancy?
Constipation is due to the hormonal changes which influence the digestive system. The increasing progesterone level slows down the bowel movements resulting in a difficult passage of stool. Constipation is also caused by the pressure exerted by the expanding uterus on the rectum.
- Is pregnancy constipation painful?
Yes, pregnancy can induce some painful and very uncomfortable constipation. Strained bowel movements due to slowed-down digestion and tight stool cause abdominal pains and cramps.
- How to avoid constipation during pregnancy?
A diet rich in fibre during pregnancy with adequate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains prevents constipation. Proper hydration aids in maintaining regular physical activity and bathroom routine that regulates bowel movements and, therefore, reduces the risk of constipation.
- What over-the-counter treatments are safe for pregnancy constipation?
Any over-the-counter treatment should only be administered following advice from a health professional. Stool softeners such as docusate sodium may be considered relatively safe while laxatives and many other medications need to be taken under medical supervision.
- Are there natural remedies that may help relieve pregnancy constipation?
Yes, there are many natural remedies for relieving constipation during pregnancy. Drinking lots of water, including fibre-rich foods in your diet, and doing gentle exercises like walking or yoga can stimulate bowel movements. Prunes or prune juice have natural laxative effects and can be included in your diet with your doctor’s approval.
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