By EKalman July 17, 2023 - 2:00am

One of the frequent conditions that bother pregnant women is constipation, which occurs in 40% of women expecting the birth of a baby. There are several reasons for constipation during pregnancy.

Constipation can occur from the first trimester of pregnancy, which is usually associated with a change in the hormonal balance. From the second trimester of pregnancy, the problem worsens. In the second trimester of pregnancy, the level of the hormone progesterone increases significantly. The action of progesterone during pregnancy aims at relaxing the muscles of the uterus, but in parallel, it affects the intestines. Relaxation of the intestinal muscles leads to a decrease in motility and a violation of the evacuation of intestinal contents.

In addition, the pregnant uterus increases in size and puts pressure on the digestive organs, which can also cause a slowdown in the passage of feces through the intestines.

Taking certain medications, such as iron and calcium supplements, can also cause constipation. Therefore, do not self-medicate without consulting a doctor.

One of the common causes of constipation in pregnant women is a lifestyle change –– a sedentary lifestyle and non-compliance with proper nutrition.

Chronic bowel disease can also contribute to the development of constipation.

Why Is Constipation Dangerous?
As the intestinal contents move through the intestines, nutrients, and water are absorbed from it. If the feces are retained for a long time in the body, more water is absorbed, and the feces harden. In this case, the act of defecation is difficult and requires effort-straining, which can lead to the appearance of hemorrhoids.

In addition, damage to the walls of the anus with solid feces can provoke the appearance of anal fissures in the patient.

The most dangerous complication of constipation is intestinal obstruction, which occurs with prolonged non-emptying of the intestine and requires surgical intervention.

How to Relieve Constipation in Pregnant Women?
First, you need to review the diet and adjust it:
- The diet should be rich in fiber (greens, raw and baked apples, green beans, whole grain bread). If a pregnant woman is not accustomed to eating such foods, it is necessary to introduce them into the diet gradually to prevent bloating and discomfort.
- Fruits, both fresh and processed, are useful.
- Adjust the ratio of vegetables and meat products to 2:1.
- Drinking regime - at least 7 glasses of water per day.

Some foods should be removed from the diet, as they can provoke constipation:
- Sweets, dough.
- Mushrooms.
- Chocolate.
- Strong coffee and tea.
- Smoked products.
- Animal fats.
- Pasta and white bread.
- Hard cheeses.

Do not prescribe laxatives or other medications on your own. Most of these drugs are contraindicated in pregnancy.

When Should You See a Doctor for Constipation in Pregnancy?
We recommend making an appointment with a gastroenterologist as soon as a pregnant woman has problems with stool.

A gastroenterologist will help:
- Correctly adjust the patient's diet so that the pregnancy is comfortable, without discomfort from the gastrointestinal tract.
- If necessary, perform additional examinations and studies to determine the cause of constipation.
- A timely visit to the doctor will prevent unpleasant complications in the form of hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

If necessary, the doctor may prescribe laxatives, taking into account the woman's condition. The specialist will select a drug that does not have uterotonic properties; that is, it does not entail an increase in the tone of the uterus or its contraction.

You should consult a doctor if you experience pain or discomfort in the anal area during or after a bowel movement and if you experience frequent pain and swelling in the abdominal cavity.

What is the prevention of constipation in pregnant women?
- Treatment of chronic diseases before pregnancy.
- Adherence to a mobile lifestyle.
- A balanced and rational diet with sufficient fiber content.
- Proper drinking regime.
- Consultation with a doctor before taking vitamins and dietary supplements.