When does Constipation in Pregnancy Start? - What to Expect

Constipation is a common gastrointestinal problem that affects many people, including pregnant women. Constipation during pregnancy is defined as infrequent bowel movements, typically fewer than three times per week, with difficulty passing stools.

Most women tend to experience constipation during the third trimester because of the weight of the foetus and the pressure that it exerts on one’s bowels. However, constipation problem in pregnancy can occur anytime and also last for some time after childbirth. 

It is essential to manage constipation during pregnancy because it can also lead to complications such as anal fissures or faecal impaction.

The issue of constipation during pregnancy for women can be different as there are several factors that contribute to this. Here are some possible causes of constipation during pregnancy:

1. Hormonal changes: Throughout pregnancy, the body’s hormone levels rise, especially progesterone. This hormone can cause the muscles in the digestive tract to relax, leading to the slowed transit time of food through the intestines. This can lead to constipation problem in pregnancy.
2. Increased pressure on the intestines: The enlarged uterus often puts pressure on the intestines. This can make food move more slowly through the digestive tract, resulting in constipation.
3. Iron supplements: Pregnant women are frequently given iron supplements to help avoid iron deficiency anaemia. These supplements, however, might induce constipation problem during pregnancy since they slow down the digestive system.
4. Lack of exercise: Exercise helps to stimulate the digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements. However, many pregnant women may be more sedentary due to fatigue or discomfort, leading to constipation.
5. Dehydration: Pregnant women need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. When the body is dehydrated, the stool can become hard and difficult to pass, leading to constipation.
6. Changes in diet: During pregnancy, many women may experience changes in their appetite or aversions to certain foods. This can lead to a diet that is low in fibre, which can contribute to constipation.
7. Anxiety or Stress: Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and anxiety or stress can affect the digestive system, leading to constipation.
8. Pre-existing digestive issues: Women who have pre-existing digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), may be more likely to experience constipation during pregnancy.

Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if one is suffering from constipation because the symptoms are similar to those of normal pregnancy. However, experiencing severe discomfort, pain in the bowel region or difficulty in passing stool must be taken up with the doctor for the right course of treatment. Below are some of the most highlighted symptoms of constipation during pregnancy:

1. Infrequent bowel movements: A decrease in the frequency of bowel movements is a common symptom of constipation during pregnancy. Typically, if a person has less than three bowel movements per week, they may be considered constipated.
2. Difficulty Passing Stools: Constipated individuals may experience pain, discomfort, or straining when attempting to pass stools. It is one of the most common symptoms of constipation. 
3. Hard or Lumpy Stools: Stools that are hard or lumpy may be a sign of constipation. These types of stools can be difficult to pass, and they may cause discomfort or pain. Higher levels of progesterone can decrease the activity of one’s bowel movement, giving the body more time to absorb the required nutrients. This can make the stool dry out due to lack of moisture and make it harder to pass as poop. 
4. Bloating: Constipation problem in pregnancy can cause abdominal bloating, which may make a person feel uncomfortably full or gassy. While bloating, to some extent is normal during pregnancy, prolonged gastric issues must be diagnosed in time. 
5. Abdominal Discomfort: Constipation in pregnancy can cause discomfort or cramping in the abdomen as well. This can also be a result of gas buildup, but prolonged pain or discomfort calls for a dedicated consultation.
6. Rectal Discomfort: Individuals with constipation may experience discomfort or pain in the rectum. The primary reason behind increased rectal discomfort is often caused by hard stool. 
7. Anal Fissures: Straining during bowel movements can cause small tears in the skin around the anus, which can be painful and may cause bleeding. 

During pregnancy, constipation is a common problem. This is due to hormonal changes that slow down the digestive system and the pressure of the growing uterus on the rectum. To prevent or manage constipation during pregnancy, women can make some lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of water, eating a high-fibre diet, and exercising regularly. Here are some ways to cure constipation during pregnancy:

1. Increase fibre intake: Fibre-rich meals such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help bulk up your stool and promote bowel motions. At least 25-30 grams of fibre per day is recommended.
2. Stay hydrated: Consuming enough water and drinks like fresh fruit juices can aid in the softening of the stool and the ease of bowel movements. Women should drink 8-10 glasses of water every day. This will eventually turn the hardened stool soft and help in smoothing the bowel movement.
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help stimulate bowel movements and improve digestion. One should try to include at least 30 minutes of moderate exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, into the daily routine.
4. Use stool softeners and laxatives: If natural remedies do not work, one may need to take a stool softener, laxatives or a fibre supplement, such as psyllium husk or methylcellulose. These products can help soften the stool and make it easier to pass. It is important to use laxatives only as directed by a seasoned doctor, as some laxatives may be harmful to the foetus.
5. Avoid certain foods: Certain foods can worsen constipation, including processed foods, dairy products, fried and fatty foods, and refined carbohydrates. Avoiding these foods can help improve one’s digestion.
6. Try herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies, such as senna tea or flaxseed oil, can help relieve constipation during pregnancy. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before using any herbal remedies, as some may not be safe for pregnant women.

One can also explore effective home remedies for constipation in pregnancy to improve bowel movement. The treatment for constipation during pregnancy depends on the severity of the condition, the woman's health, and the underlying cause. However, with the right consultation and treatment, it can be cured.

Constipation in pregnancy is a common gastrointestinal problem. It is characterised by infrequent bowel movements, typically less than three times per week, with difficulty passing stools. Hormonal changes that slow down digestion and pressure from the expanding uterus on the intestines can cause constipation. Other causes include iron supplements, lack of exercise, dehydration, changes in diet, anxiety or stress, and pre-existing digestive issues. 

The most evident symptoms of constipation during pregnancy include infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, hard or lumpy stools, bloating, abdominal discomfort, rectal discomfort, and anal fissures. However, you can manage or prevent constipation by increasing your fibre intake, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and following a healthy diet. 

At HexaHealth, we have rich experience in dealing with women's health, pregnancies, and advanced surgical intervention. We can help you navigate through the issues of constipation in pregnancies and lead you on the right path. Speak to our expert teams today and get a dedicated consultation with ease!