Constipation occurs in the body when bowel movements become less frequent or difficult. It is common for women in general, but even more so for those who are pregnant. The normal time period in between bowel movements will vary from one person to another. Going longer than three days without a bowel movement is considered too long. Constipation can make you ill whether you are pregnant or not. It is very important for pregnant women to do all they can to keep from becoming constipated.
Constipation typically occurs in early in pregnancy because the rise of progesterone hormones and later in pregnancy due to the uterus growing larger and taking up a lot of space while leaving little room for other organs. While pregnant, constipation can lead to obstruction in the bowels and be very painful at times.
The usual symptoms of constipation include irregular bowel movement, bloating, straining, hard stools and pain during a bowel movement. But while pregnant, you will experience these problems as well and others because of everything going on in your body.
Symptoms of constipation while pregnant:
- Difficulty passing stools
- Feeling of not being empty
- Straining to pass stools
- A projecting abdomen
- Bowel sounds increase
- Cramp-like feelings
- Tender stomach
- Feeling of blockage in anal
Constipation throughout pregnancy and even after pregnancy is very common. If you are able to take control of it early, you will save yourself a lot of pain and discomfort.
Tips to help pregnancy:
- Drink a lot of water. 8 to 10 8-ouces glasses each day is recommended.
- Include a lot of fiber in your diet.
- Eat prunes or drink prune juice for a natural laxative.
- Exercise to keep the digestive track flowing.
