Constipation during pregnancy
Taken from Babycenteronline.com
Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board
Last updated: June 2006
Why am I so constipated?
If it's any consolation, constipation is a common problem during pregnancy. One culprit is an increase in the hormone progesterone, which slows the movement of food through your digestive tract. And the problem may be compounded later in pregnancy by the pressure of your growing uterus on your rectum. Iron supplements can make constipation worse.
What can I do about constipation?
Here are some tips for preventing and easing constipation:
• Eat high-fiber foods such as cereals, whole-grain breads, and fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Add a couple of tablespoons of unprocessed wheat bran (available at health food stores) to your cereal in the morning and follow it with a glass of water.
• Drink plenty of water — at least six to eight glasses a day. A glass of fruit juice every day, especially prune juice, can also be helpful.
• Exercise regularly. Walking, swimming, riding on a stationary bike, and yoga can all help ease constipation and leave you feeling more fit and healthy.
• Listen to your body. Never put off going to the bathroom when you feel the urge.
• Ask your healthcare provider about taking an over-the-counter fiber supplement or switching to an iron supplement with less iron.
Is constipation ever serious?
Not usually, though occasionally it can be a symptom of another problem. If you have severe constipation that's accompanied by abdominal pain, alternates with diarrhea, or you pass mucus or blood, call your doctor or midwife immediately.
Also, straining during a bowel movement or passing a hard stool can lead to or worsen hemorrhoids, swollen veins in the rectal area. Hemorrhoids can be extremely uncomfortable, though they rarely cause serious problems and in most cases they go away fairly soon after your baby is born. However, if the pain is severe or you have rectal bleeding, call your caregiver so you can be evaluated.
\
http://www.babycenter.com/0_constipation-during-pregnancy...