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What to do for constipation of a pregnant woman. Optimal foods for constipation. Causes of constipation during pregnancy

Drawing and cramping pains, bloating, nausea and irritability, fatigue and apathy - constipation during pregnancy is accompanied by a whole bunch of symptoms.

Under the concept of "constipation" is understood not only the absence of stool for 1.5-2 days, but also a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, a small amount of feces, its dryness and hardness. If after using the toilet there is a feeling of incomplete emptying, this is also considered a deviation from the norm.

It is a mistake to put up with stagnation, considering them inevitable companions of pregnancy. Bowel emptying problems are surmountable without harm to the health of the mother and the unborn child.

The difficulties of defecation that arise during the waiting period for the baby are caused by a complex of provoking factors. Doctors list the most common reasons:

  • changes in hormonal levels. The relaxing effect of progesterone extends not only to the muscles of the uterus, but also to the intestines;
  • taking monopreparations containing iron and calcium. These macronutrients thicken the stool;
  • the use of diuretics and sedatives, antispasmodics;
  • lack of physical activity;
  • improper nutrition;
  • lack of fluid;
  • pressure from the growing uterus on the intestines;
  • exacerbation of diseases of the anal region - hemorrhoids, cracks in the anus;
  • stress. This also includes the fear of straining, even the smallest.

Prunes are the main dried fruit in the fight against constipation.

Delayed emptying brings discomfort to both mom and baby. Putrefactive processes in the intestines intensify, toxic substances are absorbed into the bloodstream, depressing the well-being of the pregnant woman. Harmful products, the result of the breakdown of food, cause intoxication and provoke oxygen starvation of the fetus.

Digestive gruel is an environment in which microorganisms actively develop. Congestion can cause inflammation of the appendix and sigmoid region, and hard feces will cause the development of proctitis, anal fissures, and the growth of hemorrhoids.

The large intestine, which is full of gases, adversely affects the tone of the uterus.

Excessive and prolonged tension of the abdominal muscles when trying to empty the intestines is undesirable. In the later stages of pregnancy, it increases intra-abdominal pressure, provoking rupture of amniotic fluid and the onset of labor.

How to alleviate the condition of a pregnant woman without harming her health and well-being of the unborn baby? Stick to delicate treatments. In solving the problems of defecation, doctors do not give preference to taking pills, but to revising the diet, including moderate physical exercise in the daily regimen. They prescribe sparing folk remedies that are not contraindicated during gestation. Medicines are connected last.

Diet changes

Timely correction of the diet improves the condition of the expectant mother. During pregnancy, the diet includes fiber-rich foods to help relieve constipation.

The table contains a list of products that affect the motor and excretory functions of the digestive system:

Improves intestinal motility:

  • carrots, beets, pumpkin, leafy greens, zucchini, cucumbers;
  • bran bread;
  • whole grain cereals - buckwheat, oatmeal, barley, pearl barley, millet;
  • fermented milk products with low fat content;
  • vegetable oils;
  • dried fruits, watermelon, melon, apples, apricots, cherries;
  • light soups warm;
  • fruit juices;
  • 1.5-2 liters of liquid, if there are no contraindications.

Hinder digestion:

  • viscous soups;
  • mashed and cooked dishes;
  • smoked meats;
  • white bread and buns;
  • semolina and peeled rice;
  • sweets;
  • hard cheese varieties;
  • strong black tea, coffee and cocoa;
  • jelly.

Contribute to gas formation:

  • cabbage;
  • legumes;
  • spinach and sorrel;
  • salty and spicy dishes.

Eating wheat bran is possible only in metered portions: they have a powerful effect, provoke colic and flatulence. During the gestation period, it is preferable to porridge, vegetables and fruits with more delicate fiber fibers.

Ready-made preparations

For ladies in an interesting position, significant restrictions have been introduced regarding the intake of laxatives. Many of the drugs are contraindicated: they irritate the receptors of the colon, increasing its motility and at the same time increasing the uterine tone.

A laxative for pregnant women, which is approved for use at home, is prescribed from among the safest drugs that have a minimal effect on the muscles of the uterus:

  • Forlax, Fortrans;
  • lactulose preparations (Duphalac, Portalak, Prelax);
  • rectal suppositories with glycerin;
  • microclysters Microlax.

Self-administration of laxatives is prohibited. Drug treatment is carried out with caution and under the supervision of a physician.

Examples of folk methods

Use herbal medicine recipes with caution. Laxative herbs, like herbal raw materials of other actions, have their own contraindications. During the gestation period, the most popular remedies are prohibited: senna leaves, rhubarb, aloe, wormwood, nettle and yarrow herb, buckthorn bark, joster fruits. By stimulating the motor activity of the intestines, they also affect the smooth muscles of the uterus. The process is dangerous by premature contractions of the genital organ. Taking drugs based on the listed plants is contraindicated.

For similar reasons, the use of castor oil is limited. It can only be used externally, for example, to strengthen and nourish hair. Under the supervision of a doctor, they drink flax seed infusions, which also increase the uterine tone. Even harmless chamomile can cause bleeding, so its decoctions are used with caution.

For pregnant women, treatment is allowed with the following folk remedies that have a mild laxative, antispasmodic and analgesic effect:

  • plantain;
  • violet;
  • motherwort;
  • Melissa;
  • mint;
  • Linden blossom;
  • Dill;
  • ginger;
  • calendula (in collections);
  • currant and blueberry leaves;
  • fruits and flowers of common mountain ash;
  • rosehip berries.

Taking natural infusions, they accurately observe the dosage and monitor the body's reaction.

Recipes

The bowel movement will improve if you drink a glass of cool water in the morning, a quarter of an hour before breakfast. You can add a couple of drops of fresh lemon juice or a teaspoon of honey to the liquid. Laxative tea for pregnant women is brewed by putting slices of dried apples in a hot drink.

Prunes are an effective product for constipation during pregnancy. It is consumed raw, boiled or soaked, and also combined with other products.

Beet broth

  • 100 grams of prunes, oatmeal and beets,
  • 2 liters of water.

The dried fruits are washed, the beets are peeled and grated. The components are mixed, placed in a bowl and filled with water. Boil for about an hour, filter and cool. The broth is stored in the refrigerator.

Drink 200 ml before going to bed.

Honey mix

  • 100 grams of prunes, dried apricots, raisins,
  • 2 tbsp. l. bee nectar.

Dried fruits are washed and dried, twisted in a meat grinder. Mix thoroughly.

Take 2 tsp in the evening with water. The popular natural laxative for pregnant women is also a source of vitamins.

The drug is indicated if there is no allergy to bee products.

Pumpkin honey dessert

  • 200 gr pumpkin
  • 2 tsp honey.

The pumpkin is baked in the oven, ground with a bee product.

Kefir with butter

  • 200 ml of fresh low-fat kefir,
  • 1 tsp olive oil.

The fermented milk mixture is taken before bedtime.

Gooseberry compote

  • 1 tbsp. l. fresh fruits,
  • 200 ml of water,
  • sugar to taste.

The finished compote is filtered. Drink 50 ml 4 times a day.

Gooseberry not only has a laxative effect, but it can reduce pain in case of digestive disorders.

Apple drink

  • 3-4 fresh apples
  • 1 liter of water.

The fruits, not peeled from the skin, are cut into slices and boiled for up to 15 minutes. Leave for 4 hours, tightly closing the lid and wrapping the pan.

They drink instead of tea up to 3 times a day.

With flaxseed

  • 1 tbsp. l. Flaxseed,
  • 200 ml of boiling water.

The composition is insisted for 3-4 hours. The remedy is taken before bedtime.

The infusion is drunk with caution and only after consulting a doctor.

Violet tea

  • 10 grams of violet herb,
  • 1 cup boiling water

The ingredients are placed in an enamel pan, boiled in a water bath for 15 minutes. After removing from heat, insist for 1 hour. Having filtered, dilute the liquid with a glass of boiling water. Take three times a day for 1 tbsp. l.

Dill infusion

  • 2 tbsp. l. dill seeds,
  • 200 ml of boiling water.

The remedy is insisted for 2 hours. Having strained, they drink 1 tbsp. l. half an hour before meals.

The drug fights bloating.

Rowanberry broth

  • 10 grams of flowers
  • 200 ml of water.

The composition is boiled for 10 minutes. After straining, take 50 ml 3 times a day.

Natural sweets

  • Figs and prunes in equal proportions,
  • a pinch of coriander.

Dried fruits are crushed, spice is added. The mass is stirred until smooth, rolled into small balls. For the prevention of defecation disorders, 2 pcs are enough. in a day. The finished candies are stored in the refrigerator.

Preventive measures

While expecting a baby, you need to be wary of any discomfort and report it to the doctor. When the first signs of difficult bowel movements appear and timely treatment, the patient's condition improves faster and does not leave adverse consequences. The ideal case is to avoid the undesirable phenomenon by observing preventive measures.

Lack of physical activity significantly slows down digestion. With normal health, all pregnant women are shown daily walks, with the permission of the gynecologist - special classes in health centers. Swimming, yoga or fitness are good for health and well-being, energize and prepare the body for the upcoming birth.

Immediately after the conception of a child in a woman's body, the restructuring of most organs and systems begins. This process is manifested by various symptoms, one of which is constipation during early pregnancy.

Doctors of the antenatal clinic note a disorder of the gastrointestinal tract in the first trimester of pregnancy in more than half of their patients. Constipation in expectant mothers cannot be considered a disease, since they have completely physiological reasons and are caused by changes in the mother's body. However, such digestive disorders can provoke serious disorders in women.

Read in this article

What Causes Bowel Problems During Pregnancy

Digestive disorders in the expectant mother are often expressed by the absence of stool for more than three days. This symptom is a consequence of changes in physiology and biochemistry during pregnancy, as well as various errors in the diet and lifestyle of a young woman.

Experts refer to the physiological reasons for constipation during this period:

  • Hormonal changes in the blood of a pregnant woman. Immediately after the moment of fertilization, the endocrine glands begin to intensively produce the hormone progesterone, which is responsible in the female body for the successful course of pregnancy and preparation for childbirth. This substance has the property of relaxing the smooth muscles of many organs, including the small and large intestines.
  • A similar effect of the hormone leads to a decrease in peristalsis and causes stool retention in the expectant mother.
  • To stabilize metabolic processes in a woman's body in the first trimester of pregnancy, doctors recommend that she take a special complex of vitamins and trace elements, the basis of which is iron and calcium. These substances indirectly affect the gastrointestinal tract of a woman, causing stagnation in the large intestine, reducing its muscle contractility, thereby provoking constipation in a pregnant woman.
  • The process of carrying a child provokes a change in the hormonal balance in the expectant mother. Hormones not only reduce bowel function, they have a negative effect on the patient's nervous system. A woman in the first trimester of pregnancy is prone to stress, and any disturbance from the gastrointestinal tract can cause her severe irritation. A malfunction of the central nervous system often provokes a stool retention in the patient.

The expectant mother herself, by her actions, often leads to disorders in the activity of the digestive system.

If a woman experiences constipation during early pregnancy, the reasons are often rooted in the patient's diet and lifestyle:

  • For the expectant mother, it is very important to be correct in the first weeks after conception. A large amount of foods containing fiber should be included in the daily diet, which is very important for the restoration of the motility of the large intestine. An example of such food can be beet dishes, which can positively resolve the issue of constipation.
  • Many expectant mothers, under the influence of friends' advice or after reading recommendations on popular pseudo-scientific sites, sharply limit themselves in liquid from the first days of pregnancy. So they try to fight the possible, completely without understanding the mechanism of their occurrence.

Lack of fluid will not only cause constipation in a young woman. It is fraught with a violation of the fluid composition of the blood, its thickening and various pathological conditions as a result. There is evidence of an increased risk of blood clots in these patients and various disorders of the central nervous system with a lack of fluid.

Any woman, even those who had excellent health before pregnancy, can experience a similar problem in the first trimester of pregnancy. Constipation in expectant mothers is not considered a disease, nevertheless, they pose a certain threat to a pregnant woman and her unborn child.

Why constipation is dangerous in early pregnancy

Disruption of the gastrointestinal tract in patients expecting a baby is most often expressed in stool retention for several days. If such a condition lasts more than 3 days, it is necessary to take appropriate measures, since constipation can provoke various problems in the expectant mother:

  • A woman will most often be bothered by the severity and, possibly, severe pain in the abdominal cavity. Since in the first 2 to 3 months of fetal development, patients are not recommended to use many of the usual medications, it will be difficult to cope with such symptoms.
  • Persistent constipation can increase the pressure in the abdominal cavity, which can provoke. This is already a direct threat to the possible.
  • In the first trimester, all the main organs of the unborn child are laid, and a disruption in the work of the gastrointestinal tract contributes to stagnation in the intestines. This situation often leads to the fact that food breakdown products enter the patient's bloodstream. This is already an immediate threat to the fetus.
  • The problem of constipation is best solved early in pregnancy and not postponed until the onset of labor. Pathological microflora of the colon can provoke various inflammatory diseases of the birth canal, which can adversely affect childbirth.
  • Disruption of the normal functioning of the intestines often becomes the cause of the development of hemorrhoids in the expectant mother. A pregnant woman already has a high probability of problems with hemorrhoids, since the process of bearing a fetus is accompanied by congestion in the veins of the pelvis, and constipation only aggravates this problem.

There are quite a few reasons why constipation during early pregnancy occurs. Even psychological problems can become an impetus for irregular bowel movements. Doctors of the antenatal clinic can recommend to a pregnant woman a whole range of measures to combat this ailment. The basis of all these measures is the prevention of intestinal stagnation and the stabilization of the gastrointestinal tract.

Watch the video about the causes of constipation:

What can help an expectant mother

Since the disruption of the intestines, in addition to discomfort, poses an immediate threat to the health of the woman and the unborn baby, it is necessary to act decisively. For the treatment of constipation, one cannot be limited to medication or diet alone. Only a combination of efforts will make it possible to successfully cope with this problem.

The nutrition of the expectant mother is a rather serious problem. On the one hand, the patient should receive a sufficient amount of nutrients, on the other, food should not provoke gastrointestinal disorders and contain ingredients harmful to the unborn child.

Experts believe that the key to preventing constipation in an expectant mother is a clear implementation of the following recommendations:

  • For a complete and timely bowel movement, a woman's food must contain a large amount of fiber. Doctors recommend that you include plenty of raw vegetables and fresh fruits in your diet. Preference should be given to those gifts of nature that are not capable of causing allergic reactions in the expectant mother. Beets, apples, pears, plums are well suited for the diet.
  • Meat should contain a lot of connective tissue. Fatty varieties should be limited. Young veal, lamb, and poultry have proven to be excellent for the nutrition of pregnant women.
  • A large amount of vegetable or olive oil should be included in the daily diet. This product is excellent for the restoration of intestinal function.
  • It is advisable to give preference to oat and buckwheat porridge, brown bread, dried fruits, especially prunes in the diet of such patients.

The doctors of the antenatal clinic will definitely tell the expectant mother what she should give up. If you have such problems, it is not recommended to eat rice, cabbage, white bread and other foods that cause constipation.

Separately, it should be noted the importance of the water regime for solving the problem. A pregnant woman should consume at least 3 liters of fluid per day. Preference should be given to juices, decoctions of fruits and vegetables. Loved by many ladies and coffee will only aggravate the difficulty of emptying the intestines.

Products for constipation during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the following foods will help with constipation, which have a laxative effect:

Vegetables Carrots, onions, beets, fresh cucumbers, white cabbage, pumpkin. It is advisable to use them fresh, but also in boiled / stewed, they, passing through the intestines, act irritatingly on its walls. This enhances peristalsis and guarantees the release of feces.
Porridge Buckwheat, pearl barley, oatmeal or millet. They are boiled in water, not butter, but vegetable oil is put into the finished dish. Doctors recommend adding fresh fruit to the porridge to enhance the laxative effect.
Dairy products All without exception, as well as kumis and sour yoghurts. During pregnancy, you should pay attention to the fat content of such products and give preference to low rates.
Fruits Plums, bananas, pears and apples. They not only have a positive effect on intestinal motility, but also increase the amount of water in the feces - they just come out easier.

Vegetable oils also have a strong laxative effect; they can replace all fats in ready-made dishes. For severe / persistent constipation, you can consume 30 ml of vegetable oil on an empty stomach in the morning.

What can you drink for constipation for pregnant women

For constipation for pregnant women, you can drink the following drinks:

  • dried fruit compote - cooked without adding sugar;
  • mineral water with magnesium and sulfates in the composition - "Essentuki" No. 4 and 17 ½ glass 2-3 times a day;
  • rosehip decoction - prepared without sugar, drunk without adding honey;
  • fennel tea - sold in pharmacies, consumed in an amount of no more than 300 ml per day;
  • chicory drink - the best time to drink is morning and lunch.

In general, with constipation, pregnant women are advised to drink more clean water - it helps to soften the feces in the intestines. But recommendations regarding the use of any liquid must be coordinated, received from a doctor - for example, with diseases of the kidneys and urinary system, some drinks will be contraindicated.

If a pregnant woman has constipation, then she should not drink black tea, coffee, any carbonated sweet drinks.

Exercise as a remedy for constipation in pregnant women

Regular gymnastics can be an excellent remedy for constipation, an additional effect will be an increase in the general tone of the pregnant woman's body, strengthening of muscle fibers. A total of 6 exercises are performed daily 1 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal:

  • Starting position - on all fours, knees and arms apart shoulder-width apart. It is necessary to tear off the right hand from the floor and, slightly bending forward and transferring the weight to the resting hand, reach the left knee with your palm. After returning to the starting position, immediately perform the exercise for the other limb.
  • Sit straight on the floor with your legs extended forward and your hands on your hips. You need to turn your head and body to the sides. Hands and feet remain in the same position, the back is straight.
  • Take a sitting position on the floor with your back against the wall, bending your knees. Perform deep breaths in and out with your stomach for no more than 3 minutes in a row.
  • Starting position - lying on your back, legs bent at the knees, but not at full amplitude. The right leg should be lifted and the heel should touch the knee of the left lower limb. Then the exercise is repeated for the other leg.
  • Without changing the starting position, you need to bend your knees, spread them to the sides and connect your feet together. The task is to lower your knees as close to the floor as possible.
  • From the previous position, rest your feet on the floor and bend your knees. The task is to touch the floor with your knees, rotating your pelvis to the right / left.

Each exercise is repeated 10-15 times, gymnastics should not cause strong tension and discomfort. If the pregnancy is proceeding with complications, then the advisability of performing the proposed complex should be consulted with a doctor.

Traditional methods

Traditional medicine specialists have at their disposal a sufficient number of medicinal plants to solve gastrointestinal problems in expectant mothers. In the special literature, there is a positive effect of beets, prunes or grapes on the intestinal function of the patient. You can suggest using the following folk remedies for the prevention of constipation:

  • 200 grams of ground fresh beets are mixed with 100 grams of dried fruit and 150 grams of oatmeal. The resulting mass is poured with 3 liters of cold water and boiled over low heat for 60 - 90 minutes. The drink is cooled and stored in a dark and cool place. 200 grams of broth before bedtime will help the expectant mother to forget about constipation for a long time.
  • Not devoid of interest for pregnant women and a medicinal mixture of equal shares of dried apricots, raisins, prunes and honey. These ingredients are thoroughly mixed with a mixer or blender and transferred to a special form. The mixture is infused for 12 hours, after which it is recommended that a woman eat 50 grams of this healing potion before bedtime.

But not all familiar folk laxatives can be used by expectant mothers. Experts are categorically against the patient's use of broths and infusions based on buckthorn, senna leaves and rhubarb. The listed herbs can cause a malfunction of the hormonal system, which is fraught with the threat of termination of pregnancy.

Traditional medicine

If, with the help of diet and folk recipes, it is not possible to prevent constipation in a woman during early pregnancy, the treatment of this problem should be entrusted to doctors. The thing is that after conception, young ladies are contraindicated in most of the usual medications. What doctors advise:

Solving the problem of constipation in the early stages of pregnancy requires an individual approach, since the likelihood of pathological reactions to any medication in such patients is very high.

Pills for constipation during pregnancy

If the correction of the diet and the use of various drinks does not give a positive result, then constipation during pregnancy can be cured with pills and powders, and the latter are especially effective:

Mukofalk

 Increases the volume of feces (not quantity!), Prevents them from hardening. Represents granules, which are intended for solution preparation. 1 teaspoon is taken (from this amount, a solution is prepared in 150 ml of water) a maximum of 6 times a day.
Fiberlex

Defecation is normalized by improving intestinal motility. Helps to solve the problem of nervous diarrhea.

Sold in one-time sachets - they contain a powder that should be dissolved in 150 ml of warm water. 1 sachet is allowed per day.
Phytomucil

Natural remedy containing plantain and plum. It helps in the initial stages of constipation, because it acts on the problem gently, sparingly.

No more than 1 package is accepted per day.

Even the most mild remedies should only be taken in consultation with your doctor. Stronger tablets (Senade) are often prohibited during pregnancy, because they increase peristalsis too much and are absorbed by the intestinal walls.

Constipation in the first trimester: what to do

For constipation in the first trimester, you can use enemas, while the best solution would be the use of microclysters - for example, Microlax. Their volume is only 15 ml (this is the maximum), they are distinguished by a gentle effect, gentle cleansing of the intestines. A woman should consult with a gynecologist about the treatment of constipation, he will give permission for enemas only under certain circumstances:

  • constipation lasts more than 5 days;
  • conservative methods do not give a positive result;
  • due to the accumulation of feces, symptoms of intoxication (poisoning) of the body appear.

In general, this method of solving the problem is considered extreme when other means do not help, and the stagnation of fecal masses takes on a chronic course. It is strictly forbidden to perform such procedures when:

  • a woman's history of miscarriages;
  • increased uterine tone;
  • diagnosed threat of premature termination of pregnancy;
  • previously detected isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

Bowel problems in early pregnancy: constipation, diarrhea, pain

In most cases, pregnant women note problems with the intestines in the early stages - spasms / colic, constipation, diarrhea, doctors associate them with the restructuring of the body, new conditions for its functioning. Intestinal colic can occur against a background of hormonal imbalance, which leads to bloating and severe muscle tension. Constipation and diarrhea are a consequence of intestinal colic, unbalanced diet.

To solve problems, you just need to follow the general recommendations of doctors:

  • adjust the diet - the body in early pregnancy needs vegetables, fruits and any low-fat foods;
  • drink more water - clean and not carbonated;
  • give preference not to black tea and coffee, but to rosehip broth, dried fruit compote and other healthy drinks;
  • eat fractionally - in small portions and often, avoid overeating.

Watch this video about nutrition during pregnancy:

The best treatment for constipation in a pregnant woman is to prevent their occurrence

To avoid disorders in the digestive tract and the associated need for treatment, a woman who is preparing to become a mother needs to follow a few simple rules:

  • You cannot limit yourself to liquid. A day you need to drink at least 2 - 3 liters of compotes, juices, mineral water or medicinal broths. If edema develops, the ratio of the drunk to the secreted fluid should be carefully monitored and it is imperative to seek the advice of a doctor.
  • To a woman. Stress will surely cause constipation in the expectant mother.
  • Such ladies should adhere to a diet that specialists in the antenatal clinic will help her develop. All gas-forming and constipating foods should be avoided from your diet.
  • Pregnancy is not a reason to reduce the physical activity of the expectant mother. It is the dosed load, walks in the fresh air and an active lifestyle that will help prevent gastrointestinal disturbances during pregnancy.

Constipation as a Sign of Pregnancy

Up to 2-3 weeks, the signs of pregnancy are almost invisible, and the woman simply does not suspect that conception has taken place, but there are also pronounced changes in well-being - pain in the lower abdomen, a feeling of intestinal distention and constipation. Additionally, severe heartburn may be present even after eating familiar foods. What can be done to alleviate the condition:

  • revise your menu and exclude pickled, smoked and fried foods from it;
  • drink a lot of liquid, but give up morning coffee and strong tea for several days;
  • introduce fresh vegetables, weak meat broths, cereals on the water into the diet;
    • ... From it you will learn about the reasons for the malfunctioning of the gastrointestinal tract in a pregnant woman, assistance and the danger of diarrhea for mother and fetus.

    And in more detail about what sensations arise in the early stages of pregnancy.

    These simple tips are useful to all the fair sex. And if a lady is in the early stages of pregnancy, then careful control of her health and health care is simply necessary for her.

Unfortunately, every woman has to deal with unpleasant surprises during 40 weeks of pregnancy. Constipation is one of them. They not only deliver uncomfortable sensations, but are also dangerous for a woman in position.

Symptoms of constipation during pregnancy

Each person has a different frequency of bowel movements. Someone has bowel movements 2-3 times a day, while others do it after 2 days. This is considered normal. Many people suffer from constipation, but expectant mothers are much more likely than others to face this problem.

The main symptoms of constipation during pregnancy:
- downward change in the frequency of bowel movements;
- a small amount of feces;
- dryness and hardness of feces;
- the presence of a feeling of incomplete emptying of the intestines after a bowel movement.

A woman in a position may show all of these signs or only some of them.

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

For women who are expecting a baby, the causes of constipation can be different. One of them - increased progesterone levels in organism. This hormone has a relaxing effect on the intestinal muscles (its peristalsis is disturbed, hypotension occurs).

Constipation during early pregnancy can be caused by iron and calcium... These are useful trace elements necessary for women in position. Doctors even sometimes prescribe medications that contain iron and calcium.

Pregnant women are not active enough. Some, with the threat of miscarriage, observe bed rest. Exactly low physical activity can cause constipation.

During pregnancy, the expectant mother should monitor her diet. Because of lack of fluid bowel movement can be slow and difficult.

Constipation during pregnancy can also occur due to diseases of the anal area... For example, a crack in the anus or hemorrhoids can be the cause of this unpleasant phenomenon.

Pregnancy is not complete without stress... They arise due to the physiological restructuring of the body, fear of childbirth, thoughts about upcoming sleepless nights and other worries. Experiencing negatively affects the frequency of bowel movements.

Why are constipation dangerous during pregnancy?

Women who have never previously suffered from delayed and difficult emptying may experience this during early pregnancy. Many of them experience constipation during late pregnancy. This unpleasant phenomenon does not pass without a trace. Constipation for the expectant mother and her unborn child is especially dangerous.

Due to the difficulties with emptying, harmful substances that are formed as a result of the breakdown of food are retained in the woman's body. They, being in the intestine, are absorbed into the bloodstream through its walls. This can adversely affect the mother and fetus.

Constipation can be uncomfortable. A woman in a position can feel a heaviness in the abdomen, pain. All this can cause unwanted experiences and frustrations.

Many women are concerned about the question of whether it is possible to push for constipation during pregnancy. During the period of bearing a child attempts are not desirable... If a woman has to push not hard and rarely, then this will not cause serious problems. Regular constipation is dangerous because tension in the abdominal muscles can lead to hemorrhoids or miscarriage.

Stagnation of contents in the intestines can cause complications. For example, proctosigmoiditis (inflammation of the rectum and sigmoid colon), secondary colitis, paraproctitis (inflammation of the peri-rectal tissue), fissure of the anus can occur due to prolonged constipation.

Products for constipation during pregnancy

Not every woman knows what to do for constipation during pregnancy. Food products play a huge role in their treatment. A pregnant woman should include in her diet food that contains substances that promote bowel movement. You should also be aware of the food, the use of which can cause constipation.

Bowel emptying is facilitated by:
- raw vegetables and fruits;
- black bread;
- bread containing bran in significant quantities;
- dried fruits (especially prunes);
- buckwheat, oatmeal, barley groats;
- meat with a lot of connective tissue.

These foods for constipation during pregnancy should be included in your menu.

Pregnant women who complain of constipation and bloating should limit or eliminate fiber-rich foods.

To avoid constipation, you need to make sure that the intestines work correctly during the entire pregnancy and there are no digestive problems. The diet must contain foods rich in fiber.

These include:
- any types of cabbage,
- carrot,
- cucumbers,
- tomatoes,
- beet,
- zucchini,
- black bread,
- flour products made from black (or red) flour,
- nuts,
- fermented milk products with a shelf life of up to 3 days,
- pumpkin,
- beans,
- peas,
- apples,
- oranges,
- melons,
- peaches,
- apricots,
- plums,
- Strawberry.

And you also need to drink plain water without gases.

Vegetables can be eaten both raw and boiled (or baked), as well as as a dressing with vegetable oil.

Fruits can be eaten both fresh and baked, and in dried fruits, juices (or compotes).

Pregnant women need to eat often, but a little bit, 5-6 times a day, in small portions. Dry food is prohibited.
Before each meal, be sure to drink 1-2 glasses of warm water without gases.

From the diet you need to exclude foods and drinks such as:
- tea,
- coffee,
- cocoa,
- chocolate,
- White bread,
- flour made from white flour,
- slimy soups,
- semolina and semolina products,
- blueberries.

And to exclude fatty and fried foods.

Should be abandoned from dishes of spinach, sorrel, cabbage, beans, which cause increased gas formation.

From your diet, you should, if possible, exclude some mashed dishes (especially semolina and rice porridge), viscous substances (for example, slimy soups). Some expectant mothers do not know if there are constipation during pregnancy from cocoa and strong black tea, and they use these drinks. In fact, they should be removed from your menu, since they only interfere with the emptying of the intestines.

Pregnant woman in a day you should drink 1.5-2 liters of liquid... It can be plain water, juices, dairy products. It should be borne in mind that so much liquid can be consumed if there are no contraindications: heart disease or edema.

Medicines for constipation during pregnancy

As you know, for women in a position, taking medications is undesirable, as they can adversely affect the fetus. Then how to treat constipation during pregnancy? The drugs should be prescribed only by the attending physician if there are serious indications for this. In no case should you self-medicate. By your actions, you can only harm yourself and the unborn baby.

Almost all pills for constipation during pregnancy are contraindicated. The substances that make up most drugs irritate the receptors in the colon. This enhances its peristalsis. In pregnant women, drugs can cause an increase in the tone of the uterus and its contraction, and the consequence of this can be a miscarriage.

Doctors may prescribe glycerin candles from constipation during pregnancy. They mildly irritate rectal receptors and do not affect uterine tone.

Therefore, the use of drugs is unsafe during pregnancy. Drugs can cause miscarriage, fetal development disorders. A mother-to-be who dreams of a healthy child should not take medications without a doctor's prescription. Only a specialist can determine whether it is necessary to treat constipation during pregnancy with drugs or if you can do without them.

Folk remedies for constipation during pregnancy

A good and safe folk remedy for constipation is decoction of prunes... To prepare it, you need to take 100 grams of washed dried fruits, 100 grams of rolled oats and 100 grams of beets. Mix all these ingredients, immerse them in a saucepan and pour 2 liters of water. Boil prunes, rolled oats and beets over low heat for an hour. After that, strain the broth and put the refrigerator. Before going to bed, you should drink 1 glass.

Also helps with constipation during pregnancy prunes, dried apricots and raisins with honey... To prepare this mixture, you will need dried fruits (100 g each) and 2 tbsp. l. honey. Rinse prunes, dried apricots and raisins well and mince. Then add honey and mix thoroughly. It is recommended to use this remedy before going to bed for 2 tsp with warm water.

It is good to drink for constipation dried apricot and prune compote... It has a mild laxative effect, which is especially important when carrying crumbs.

Ingredients:
Prunes - 100 gr;
Dried apricots - 150 gr;
Water - 2 liters.

Preparation:
Soak the fruit in hot water for 15 minutes.
Drain the water and rinse the fruit.
Transfer the steamed fruits to a saucepan and cover them with cold water.
After the compote boils, reduce the heat. Boil dried fruits for 7-10 minutes.
After, add sugar and remove from heat.
Let the stewed fruit stand for 1 hour, covered.
In such a compote, you can add honey (to taste), a little lemon juice or a pinch of cinnamon / vanilla (to taste).

It is worth noting that some folk remedies for constipation during pregnancy prohibited(for example, senna leaves, rhubarb, buckthorn bark, joster fruits).

Prevention of constipation during pregnancy

Pregnant women may not experience constipation if they follow some preventive measures.

First of all, you should pay attention to your nutrition. The diet should include foods rich in fiber. It improves the digestion process. It is advisable that the daily menu contains a liquid dish (for example, soup or borscht). Foods that contribute to constipation should be excluded from the diet.

Particular attention should be paid to the drinking regime. Many women are afraid to consume a lot of fluids because of the possible appearance of edema. This is totally wrong. A pregnant woman should drink enough water. Salty foods should be excluded from consumption. This is to ensure that the salt does not retain water in the body.

To avoid severe constipation during pregnancy, you should as much as possible move more... Modern mothers lead a sedentary lifestyle. Someone is afraid to move once again, believing that movements can harm the child, while someone is more busy communicating on social networks.

Lack of physical activity provokes a slowdown in digestion. Of course, in position you will not do jogging or some difficult exercises, but you should not forget about walking in the fresh air, ordinary walking.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that the most reasonable option, thanks to which a woman in a position can avoid difficult emptying, is prevention. If you still had to deal with constipation in the early stages of pregnancy or at a later date, then you can use folk remedies.

However, it should be borne in mind that not all of them are harmless. Do not be afraid to visit a doctor. He can advise on a good and safe remedy for constipation during pregnancy, and if necessary, prescribe a medication and explain how to take it.

_______________________
P. S .: Despite the fact that I follow a diet for berths, at 25 weeks I was so strongly fixed that microcracks formed, the chair went with severe pain and blood. First I turned to my G. She assigned me candles. I did not use it, because the instructions say: Pregnant women are contraindicated. I turned to the Proctologist. He prescribed suppositories -G and a diet for stool normalization (see above). Although the instructions say that these suppositories can be used already from the first trimester, the doctor asked me to wait until the beginning of the third trimester. I did just that, I used the same diet. The diet helped quickly, it didn't strengthen me anymore. So that the cracks heal quickly, after each hike, I was washed off with cool water and applied a cream to dry skin. The candles were not useful to me.

A delicate problem like constipation often worries pregnant women. We will answer the question of why this happens, explain why constipation is dangerous during early pregnancy and how to deal with this condition without harming the expectant mother and her baby.

When to sound the alarm?

Constipation is a condition when there is incomplete bowel movement or the absence of it for more than two days. It is important to pay attention to this problem in time. Especially for women in delicate situations. Constipation is a dangerous condition for both the expectant mother and her fetus. Even if a woman does not feel pronounced unpleasant symptoms, with a regular delay in the process of defecation, you should urgently seek help from a doctor.

Causes

Constipation occurs in 70% of women in position, more often in the second half of pregnancy. This fact is explained by the growing load on the intestines due to the increase in the uterus. The longer the period, the greater the weight of the baby, which means that the pressure on the vessels also increases, the lymph and blood flow slows down, and edema forms. All this leads to intestinal congestion.

A change in the hormonal background of a pregnant woman also affects the weakening of peristalsis. This is reflected in the work of almost all internal organs, as there is a redistribution of the increasing load. It is for this reason that constipation occurs in early pregnancy. What to do in this case? Unfortunately, this condition is extremely difficult to correct. The fact is that during this period, most of the known medicines can negatively affect the development of the fetus.

Another factor contributing to constipation in expectant mothers is body stress. This condition is not always caused by nervous overstrain. Even pregnancy, which takes place in a calm psycho-emotional environment, can be complicated by delayed bowel movements. Since the very fact of the development of the embryo in the body is a serious physiological stress associated with the restructuring of the work of many organs and systems. In addition, with the onset of conception, autoimmune changes or allergic reactions can occur, which also leads to a complication of the act of defecation.

What is the danger?

The absence of defecation in the expectant mother, especially if constipation during early pregnancy is worried, is an extremely dangerous condition for both the woman and the child. Even if severe symptoms such as pain, fever or other signs are not a concern, the lack of natural bowel movements can lead to uterine tone and, as a result, miscarriage.

What is the danger of constipation during pregnancy? If defecation does not occur within 5 days, then the feces harden, thereby the possibility of self-defecation is significantly reduced, and the likelihood of intestinal cracks (and with them bleeding) increases. In addition, with stagnant phenomena, rotting of the masses begins to occur. In this case, toxic substances are released during a chemical reaction. Through the intestinal wall, they enter the bloodstream, causing serious poisoning in the body. Hazardous substances can also penetrate the placental barrier, getting to the fetus and causing serious disturbances in its development.

Can laxatives be used for pregnant women?

How to deal with constipation during pregnancy and can laxatives be taken? Most medicines are categorically contraindicated in pregnant women, as they can cause contractions of the uterus and lead to miscarriage. Some drugs disrupt the water-salt balance, causing digestive disorders, abdominal pain, diarrhea, which is also very dangerous for the expectant mother and her child.

But at the same time, not treating constipation is also extremely dangerous. What to do? First of all, you should follow the preventive measures (which are described in detail below). But if the problem has already arisen, then in no case should you prescribe yourself medicines or practice the treatment of constipation with folk remedies. Indeed, even such seemingly safe herbal preparations such as hay leaves, magnesia, Karlovy Vary salt, castor oil and others can cause irreparable harm to a pregnant woman.

Safe laxatives

At the first symptoms of constipation, you should immediately report the problem to your doctor. Only a specialist, having assessed the severity of the condition, can prescribe drugs for constipation to the expectant mother. So, drugs that are not absorbed into the bloodstream are considered the safest. They are aimed at loosening (due to the absorption of a large amount of fluid from the tissues) and natural excretion of feces. These are the so-called probiotics, which have a laxative effect. For example, "Duphalac", "Forlax", "Tranzipec" and others. In addition to their direct use, they contribute to the restoration of intestinal microflora, which prevents the appearance of the problem of constipation in the future. But even such drugs have contraindications and side reactions, so they should be used only in extreme cases and with great care. In addition, you should not expect an immediate effect from the above drugs: the result can be noted only after a few days.

Microclysters and suppositories

During pregnancy, doctors may prescribe medications for constipation such as suppositories or microclysters. They act locally, so they are safe enough for a single use. It is recommended first of all to resort to the help of suppositories, since they do not contain various additives and have proven to be an effective remedy for constipation during pregnancy. If there is no effect, you can use drugs such as "Normacol", "Microlax", "Norgalax". But often it is impossible to use such drugs: they can provoke uterine contraction.

Diet

Proper nutrition for constipation during pregnancy is the safest and most effective method of dealing with the problem. The following foods should be added to the diet:

  • containing fiber of vegetable origin: carrots, pumpkin, zucchini, buckwheat, oatmeal, barley, wholemeal bread;
  • containing organic acids: dried fruits, in particular dried apricots, raisins, prunes, dates;
  • dairy products.

Constipation food excludes foods such as:

  • fat meat;
  • pastries and sweets;
  • smoked meats;
  • potato;
  • pasta;
  • White bread;
  • tea, coffee, sweet carbonated drinks.

Folk remedies

In folk medicine, herbs that have a laxative effect are widely used. But during pregnancy, most of them cannot be used. Therefore, the treatment of constipation with folk remedies during the period of bearing a child is limited to only some recommendations and recipes based on products that activate peristalsis:

  • drink 100 ml of cool water before meals;
  • mix 50 ml of aloe juice with a spoonful of honey, leave overnight and take a teaspoon 3 times a day;
  • drink prune compote.

Prophylaxis

You can prevent constipation during early pregnancy with the help of preventive measures. What is needed for this?

  • Carefully monitor your diet: you need to eat fresh and boiled vegetables, fruits, and exclude fatty and sweet foods.
  • Drink enough purified water.
  • Lead an active lifestyle: do not forget about walks in the fresh air, visit the pool or gym for pregnant women.

As we have found out, constipation during early pregnancy is a very dangerous condition. Therefore, you should not prescribe medications yourself or resort to traditional medicine recipes. It is much more effective to seek qualified help in time and listen to the doctor's recommendations.

The problem of constipation is very delicate, so often a woman does not consult a doctor for a long time, but tries to cope on her own. This is especially common in women who suffered from constipation before pregnancy. In this case, a certain pattern of life is formed in conditions of impaired intestinal function with the use of various laxatives, including medicinal ones. In this regard, a pregnant woman considers the situation to be quite normal for herself and does not turn to a doctor for help. It should be emphasized that constipation outside of pregnancy should not be treated as a harmless sore. Delayed bowel movement creates favorable conditions for the development of various disorders in the intestine itself, as well as throughout the body. During pregnancy, all adverse factors affecting the body of the expectant mother directly or indirectly affect the condition of the fetus. The situation is aggravated by the fact that most of the drugs used to treat constipation are not recommended during pregnancy. And in some cases, it is simply dangerous for your baby.

What is constipation?

Constipation is a dysfunction of the bowel, usually manifested by a delay in bowel movement for more than 48 hours with difficulty in bowel movement. I must say that each person is different, and for each of us, the frequency of bowel movements can vary greatly. For the diagnosis of constipation, it is not even the frequency of stool that is decisive, but a decrease in its amount, the appearance of hard, dry feces and the absence of a feeling of complete emptying of the intestines after a bowel movement. In other words, if the work of the intestines does not bring you any inconvenience and discomfort, then it cannot be called painful, even if you do not have a bowel movement every day. Constipation is acute and chronic. Acute constipation occurs as a result of the actions of any temporary cause. Such "temporary" constipation can be associated with travel, stress, dietary changes, the need to restrict physical activity, for example due to illness, and in the absence of proper conditions for going to the toilet. When you return to normal life, bowel function is fully restored. However, acute constipation can become chronic if the effect of harmful factors continues for a rather long time. In this case, certain changes occur in the intestines, which require additional measures to be taken.

Normally, food that has entered our body is evacuated from the intestines within 24 hours. In chronic constipation, this occurs within 60-120 hours or more.

As a result of the slow movement of intestinal contents, a large amount of liquid is absorbed from it in the intestine, as a result of which the feces become dry and dense.In the intestine, the processes of decay and fermentation, the growth of pathogenic bacteria are intensified, and the toxic substances formed as a result of this enter the blood. On the one hand, this increases the load on the liver, which must neutralize toxins, and on the other, the intake of toxic substances to organs and tissues disrupts their work, leading to a deterioration in well-being. In pregnancy, when all organs already "serve" two, the additional "load" in the form of toxic substances forces the body to work to its limit. In the presence of chronic constipation, there is a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, rumbling and bloating, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, and a thickened tongue. Headaches and muscle pains may develop, performance deteriorates, sleep is disturbed. Long-term constipation can cause changes in the properties of the skin, which loses its elasticity, becomes flabby, with a yellowish tinge. Disruption of the work of other parts of the digestive tract, including the biliary tract, inflammation of the small and large intestines, etc. is possible. uterine tone and the threat of termination of pregnancy. I must say that there is no mention of the direct harmful effect of constipation in a pregnant woman on the condition of the fetus. But, disrupting the state of health of the expectant mother, influencing her emotional mood, constipation indirectly affects the unborn child.

Causes of constipation

In order to fight constipation, you need to understand what causes them. Most people lead a sedentary lifestyle, eat refined foods that do not contain fiber, but are oversaturated with sugar and fats. Moreover, for most people it is normal to eat 1-2 times a day. Everything else is a snack with dry food or with a lot of coffee. Add to that the chronic stress and advances of civilization in the form of cars, elevators and remote controls, and you have the ideal conditions for constipation. In addition, many people simply have no time to go to the toilet, which is why, over time, the sensitivity of the nerve endings of the rectum changes and a person simply does not feel the urge to defecate.

During pregnancy, a number of changes occur in a woman's body that create favorable conditions for disrupting the normal functioning of the intestines:

  1. Progesterone, necessary to maintain pregnancy, has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of various organs, including the intestines. As a result, the intestines become sluggish and the movement of food masses slows down.
  2. The sensitivity of the intestinal nerve endings to the action of various stimuli decreases. This is necessary because the intestines and uterus have associated innervation, and stimulation of the intestines can cause an increase in uterine tone.
  3. The growing uterus compresses the intestines, which also disrupts its motor function.

In addition, during pregnancy, conditions are not uncommon that provoke the appearance of constipation either by themselves or due to the drugs used in their treatment. In particular, heartburn and gastritis, requiring the appointment of drugs to reduce acidity, anemia, in which iron supplements are prescribed, various complications of pregnancy that require restriction of the mobility of a pregnant woman, also contribute to constipation.

How can I help myself?


First of all, you need to understand that it is impossible to get rid of constipation overnight. Having felt problems with bowel movement, it is necessary, first of all, to immediately change your diet and diet.

It is necessary to eat 4-5 times a day in small portions, which is good for the digestive tract as a whole. Do not allow long breaks between meals, as well as overeating. You should include fiber-containing foods in your diet every day. First of all, these are raw fruits and vegetables, as well as juices from them with pulp (if you tolerate them well). If you are intolerant, you can use cooked fruits and vegetables. If any foods cause you to gas up (most often they include legumes, cabbage, onions, garlic, radishes, radishes, as well as apple and grape juices), you should refrain from using them. We also recommend prunes and dried apricots, which contain a large amount of organic acids and thereby facilitate bowel movement. Dried fruits (3-5 pieces) can be poured with boiling water at night, and eaten on an empty stomach in the morning. Bread is best eaten not from white flour, preferably with bran. Bran can also be purchased separately and added in small amounts to food or consumed as a loaf of bread. They contain a large amount of fiber, which increases the volume of stool and stimulates intestinal activity. Bran also contains B vitamins and is a food substrate for bacteria that normally colonize the intestines.

Vegetable fats are useful: when broken down, they form fatty acids that enhance intestinal motility. Season salads with vegetable oil, use it for cooking hot dishes.

At night before going to bed, you can drink a glass of any fermented milk product, preferably enriched with bifidobacteria. You should limit the use of refined foods, fatty and sweet foods, fast food. The caffeine found in coffee and tea, blueberries and lingonberries are astringent and can also cause constipation. You must drink enough fluids as its lack leads to the formation of dense dry feces, which impede defecation. To activate the work of the digestive tract, it is recommended to drink a glass of warm water in the morning on an empty stomach. If constipation is accompanied by bloating, you can take activated charcoal, a decoction of chamomile flowers and mint leaves. Along with the use of the diet, it is necessary to perform special gymnastic exercises corresponding to the gestational age, if this is not contraindicated for health reasons. Swimming and walking in the fresh air are also useful. Any physical activity increases the general tone of the body, increases the supply of oxygen to the tissues, strengthens the muscles, which, in turn, has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the intestines. In addition, physical activity triggers the production of joy hormones in the body - endorphins, which help us fight stress.

How will the doctor help?

If, despite the measures taken, it is not possible to get rid of constipation, you should consult a doctor. In some cases, constipation can develop against the background of other diseases of the digestive system, endocrine glands (thyroid, adrenal glands, etc.), vascular disorders, as well as diseases of the large intestine. To exclude these reasons, you may be assigned a consultation with a gastroenterologist and other specialists. If a disease causing constipation is identified, complex treatment will be carried out. If you are not found to have any diseases that can cause constipation, first of all, the doctor will offer you the same diet and gymnastics. In addition, she may recommend anti-anxiety medications. the presence of a pregnant woman's health problems inevitably causes her anxiety. And unnecessary experiences, in turn, worsen the bowel function.

Sometimes the doctor has to resort to medication. Once again, we draw your attention to the fact that only a doctor can prescribe medications for the treatment of constipation. Using any medication on your own is dangerous for you and your child.

Medicines for the treatment of constipation. Currently, there are a large number of laxatives for the treatment of constipation. All of them can be divided into several groups. It is permissible to use during pregnancy:

  • Means that increase the amount of intestinal content: MUKOFALK, FIBERLAX. To achieve the effect, it is necessary to take a large amount of liquid, which can lead to an overload of the kidneys and the development of edema, which is especially important during pregnancy. With insufficient fluid intake, drugs are ineffective. During pregnancy, the use is possible under the control of renal function. The effect develops slowly, over 10-20 days.
  • Softening laxatives - vaseline oil. With regular use, these drugs accumulate in the intestinal wall, liver, spleen, which can lead to the development of inflammation. In addition, the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in the intestine is impaired.
  • Osmotic drugs - magnesium sulfate, Karlovy Vary salt, FORLAX, TRANSIPEG, DUFALAC. They act by increasing the fluid content in the intestine, as a result of which the feces soften, and the act of defecation is facilitated. The drugs themselves are not absorbed in the intestines, therefore they do not affect the work of other organs.

Magnesium and Karlovy Vary salts are not used during pregnancy, because can provoke a threat of interruption due to pronounced stimulation of intestinal activity. FORLAX and TRANSIPEG are softer. DUFALAC, in addition to the laxative effect, increases the growth of lactic acid bacteria, reduces the formation of toxic products in the large intestine, therefore it is also used in the treatment of dysbiosis. The drugs can be used during pregnancy if indicated. The dose of the drug is selected individually by the attending physician.

It is forbidden to use laxatives during pregnancy that cause chemical irritation of the intestinal mucosa. These include BISACODIL, REGULAX, SENNA, SENADE, etc. The use of these drugs, as a rule, is accompanied by cramping abdominal pain, the stool becomes frequent, liquid. With prolonged use, diarrhea develops, which can lead to to dehydration and loss of salts necessary for the body. Drugs can provoke reflex contractions. They cause "addiction", a decrease in intestinal tone, which only exacerbates the situation.