Constipation during pregnancy

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Constipation during pregnancy

Constipation is one of the most common health problems associated with pregnancy. As familiar and universal as it is, constipation still remains one of the least discussed aspects of pregnancy. When shyness is combined with the fact that we don’t want to talk about bowel function, many women aren’t convinced that their experiences are unique. But research around constipation is very convincing; about 30% of pregnant women seem to experience this to some degree.

It is important to remember that constipation is a symptom, not a disease. This is often the result of other conditions such as pregnancy, a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate nutrition, or illness.

What is constipation?

According to the Mayo Clinic: If you pass stools less than three times a week and your stools are hard and dry, you will probably experience constipation.

Constipation is the passage of small, hard bowel movements (stools). This is not related to the frequency of the stools, but to their consistency. The longer the stool stays in the colon, the more water is reabsorbed into the body.

One of the main functions of the large intestine is to reabsorb this intestine through its inner layer. In some people, feces remain in the intestine for so long that most of the water does not even come out as liquid and remains almost without any liquid.

Another role of the colon is to push the intestinal tube toward the rectum. Constipation occurs when there are slight interruptions in this process and the stool sits longer than necessary.

A certain amount of water is needed to help shape bowel movements and shape them. When there is little fluid left, this causes pain in bowel movements, pain is felt, and sometimes the tissue is torn. Other common symptoms are abdominal pain and satiety and bloating. It can also lead to problems with bad breath and general feeling of lethargy and fatigue.

Why is constipation so common during pregnancy?

There are a number of factors that can cause constipation during pregnancy, including:

  • The hormone progesterone plays an important role in softening the ligaments in preparation for childbirth. But it can also lead to loosening and loosening of the intestinal walls.
  • Changes in movement, diet, nausea and vomiting. Reducing the amount of fluid circulating in the body affects the overall functioning of the intestine.
  • The weight of the baby in the womb, how it sits in the gut, and how it affects the abdomen.
  • Decreased small bowel activity affects how food passes through the stomach, through the small intestine, and how it enters the colon.
  • General slowing of bowel movement and peristalsis.
  • Some foods, such as milk, dairy products, cheese, and excessive amounts of red meat, increase constipation. Digestion of protein foods can be more difficult than fibrous plant foods and cereals. Many women change their diet during pregnancy.
  • Iron supplements can cause constipation. Black movements are also common. Some women are unable to continue taking iron supplements because they become very constipated. High-iron foods such as green leafy vegetables, red meat, and legumes can be taken as an alternative.
  • Constipation is more common in women who have become addicted to laxatives or have previously abused laxatives.
  • Ignore signs of need to go to the toilet. Reversing the urge to go, delaying it, delaying body signals, and simply ignoring it can lead to constipation. Over time, doing so can lead to changes in the intestinal wall and rectal tone, meaning the body receives less of the usual evacuation signals.

What is the treatment for constipation during pregnancy?

  • A healthy diet rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber as well as coarse fodder. The soluble fiber dissolves in the intestine when it is around water. It ends up as a soft gel that easily passes through the body. Samples of soluble fiber are found in potatoes and pumpkins. Insoluble fiber is evacuated in the same way as it enters the body, for example, corn kernels, carrots.
  • The recommended intake of 25-28 grams of fiber per day during pregnancy. You can talk to a dietitian for nutritional advice.
  • Drinking plenty of water (8 large glasses a day) can help prevent constipation if you can drink it.
  • Regular exercise and moving your body - swimming, walking, yoga and weight training are the best options to exercise during pregnancy.
  • Some women may take medications called emollients. They reduce the passage of water through the feces, so it stays softer and passes more easily. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking medication during pregnancy.
  • Castor oil or other mineral-based oils are not safe to take during pregnancy and should be avoided. Similarly, enemas and suppositories should only be used under medical supervision and guidance.
It is important to rule out other medical conditions that can cause constipation during pregnancy. Pregnancy diabetes, hyperemesis gravidarum , hemorrhoids or hypothyroidism can affect the onset of constipation.
What foods help with constipation?
  • Any fresh fruit or vegetable
  • Leafy vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, Chinese greens or lettuce
  • Carrots, pumpkins, sweet potatoes and corn
  • Dried fruits and nuts, especially almonds, Brazil nuts, sesame seeds, apricots and plums
  • Fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, cranberries and beets
  • Wholemeal cereals and breads, brown rice, pasta and lentils
  • Breakfast cereals, especially unprocessed bran and oatmeal (avoid eating peeled, peeled or roasted grains, as they are highly processed and detached from their original state - how much to produce and process The more you go to cook, the more it will be removed from its origin)
  • Eat as much raw food as possible while maintaining food hygiene
What should I avoid?
Mineral oils and solid appetizers such as castor oil and laxative tablets can be dangerous during pregnancy. When taken in excess, they can lead to premature labor.
What else can help with constipation?
  • Take some time each day to sit on the toilet without being disturbed. Try not to rush after breakfast, lunch or dinner. Take a book with you, read the paper, lock the door, and try to relax.
  • Avoid straining and sitting for long periods of time. Pay more attention to the sitting position when sitting on the toilet; bending forward with your elbows on your knees can help.
  • Avoid excessive caffeine consumption. It can have a diuretic / dehydrating effect, which intensifies constipation. Water, fruit juices and mineral / soda water are sensible alternatives.
  • Some medications help with constipation. If there are alternatives you can accept, contact your pharmacist.
  • Avoid ignoring the signals that your body tells you to go to the toilet. Work responsibilities, lack of personal life and self-awareness, and feeling overwhelmed can all lead to delays.
  • Mass-forming laxatives are commonly used during pregnancy. They often come in separate packages or containers. They work by reabsorbing intestinal water and increasing the volume of bowel movements. They also soften the stool, making it easier to pass.
Remember
Postpartum constipation is not uncommon. Pain around the perineum and anus is common in the first weeks after vaginal delivery, especially when the mother has had an episiotomy or had the necessary stitches. It is important for mothers to drink plenty of water while breastfeeding, otherwise constipation is also common.
Constipation during pregnancy hemorrhoids can lead to developmental problems. This can be very painful and can cause real discomfort after delivery. Find out what will help you maintain normal and comfortable bowel habits. Many women deliver bran, nuts, seeds, and stool softeners to the maternity ward. Remember to consult a doctor or obstetrician if one of them is prohibited from breastfeeding.
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