Constipation During Pregnancy – It Is Very Common
It is very common that women experience constipation during pregnancy. Sometimes getting relief from this condition can be rather challenging.
The child growing within you limits what you can put into your body. But there are several actions pregnant women can take to prevent, control and lessen the discomfort of constipation during pregnancy.
Several factors combine to cause constipation in pregnant women. High amounts of the hormone progesterone in the system play a major role. Progesterone causes the release of mucus and makes food pass through the intestines more slowly. This cause some of the discomfort pregnant women endure.
The swelling uterus also presses against the rectum causing constipation. The combination of these two forces often lead to the pain and discomfort associated with constipation which more than 50% of women endure late in their pregnancy.
One should not just lie down and endure the pain. There are several things you can do to mitigate the discomfort of constipation during pregnancy. Staying well hydrated is important. Drink lots of fluids day and night. It will make a huge difference.
Eat plenty of high fiber foods. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables each day adds roughage, nutrients and fluids. Eating high-bran cereals, bran muffins and oat meal also help to prevent constipations.
Even when they drink lots of fluids and eat a diet high in roughage, many pregnant women are still beset with constipation. Many women combat this by including lots of ginger in their diets. Ginger tea, ginger powder and ginger ale all help to relieve bloating and constipation. Ginger aids digestion and helps to eliminate gas.
Regular exercise is also an excellent way to prevent constipation. However, you have to keep in mind that you are pregnant. So, don’t strain yourself too much. About 30 minutes walking or swimming three or four times per week is enough.
There are several over the counter products which help to soften your stool and help to improve bowel movements. Consult your doctor to see if there are particular brands or ingredients you should avoid. Your doctor may also recommend dietary supplements to help keep you healthy and regular.
Iron is important for the developing fetus. However, ingesting too much iron can lead to constipation. If you are one of those people for whom high doses of iron is a problem, talk to your doctor. They may be able to suggest ways you can adjust your iron intake without negatively affecting your growing fetus.
Constipation during pregnancy is a reality for many women. Drinking 10 to 20 cups of liquid each day, getting regular moderate exercise and eating a high fiber diet are all very effective natural constipation remedies. Make your doctor aware if you have constipation problems and together you can control this common problem.
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