Pregnancy
Constipation during Pregnancy
Constipation means that a person has three or fewer bowel movements in a week. The stool can be hard and dry. Sometimes it is painful to pass. Constipation is common in women in general and particularly a problem for pregnant women.Fiber increases the amount of water content in fecal matter, creating more bulk and softer, well-formed stools. It helps the bowel system function naturally and avoids the harsh, irritating effects of habit-forming, stimulant laxatives.
Doctor-recommended for pregnancy constipation
Causes of Constipation during Pregnancy
- Hormone Changes: The pregnancy hormone progesterone slows down intestinal function, and the longer the stool sits in the large intestine, the harder and drier it gets.
- Vitamins and Antacids: While they have many benefits, prenatal vitamins, particularly those containing iron, are very constipating. Calcium-based antacids (like TUMS® ) and calcium supplements also can lead to constipation.
- Pressure on the Intestines: As the uterus grows, it can press on the bowel and slow the passage of stool. Causes of Postpartum Constipation
- Stool Retention: If there is pain from an episiotomy or laceration, women often feel afraid to have a bowel movement and consciously or unconsciously hold back
- Medication Side-Effect: Narcotic pain medications (such as codeine) are constipating.
Treatment and Prevention of Constipation:
Stimulant laxatives (like Dulcolax® , Ex-lax® and Correctol®*) should be avoided unless directed by a practitioner. Mild laxatives are safe to use during pregnancy. For occasional constipation, a natural fiber laxative such as Konsyl provides a concentrated source of fiber, and therefore safely serves a useful purpose. Fiber supplements should be taken with plenty of liquids and are safe even if taken on a daily basis.The best remedy for this condition is a high-fiber diet and plenty of water and exercise. Also, avoid long periods of standing or sitting. Your doctor may prescribe an all-natural psyllium fiber like Konsyl Original or Konsyl Easy Mix. The fiber in Konsyl is safe and effective for both the pregnant woman and her baby.
- See where to find Konsyl fiber in stores
- Purchase fiber online
- Try a sample of Easy Mix fiber
Helping a friend? Click to email this page to her.Click Here for more information about Constipation and Women
Hemorrhoids during Pregnancy
Especially during the third trimester, many pregnant women get hemorrhoids (also called "piles"). Hemorrhoids are more common if the woman is constipated. Hemorrhoids are a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed. Fiber produces a softer fecal mass and encourages better regularity with less straining and irritation.Causes of Hemorrhoids during Pregnancy:
An increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy causes the walls of the veins to relax, allowing them to swell more easily. Also, the weight and position of the baby puts pressure on the rectal veins. Constipation can also cause hemorrhoids or make them worse.Postpartum Hemorrhoids
Causes of Postpartum Hemorrhoids:
The pushing required for vaginal delivery puts a tremendous amount of pressure on the rectal veins. Many women suffer from hemorrhoids after delivery. Preventing and treating constipation is important. Often hemorrhoids resolve as the body recovers from the birthing experience.Treatment and Prevention of Hemorrhoids:
Measures to reduce symptoms include tub baths in plain, warm water and application of a hemorrhoidal cream or suppository to the affected area for a limited time.Doctors may suggest a bulk stool softener or a psyllium fiber supplement such as Konsyl Original or Konsyl Easy Mix. The fiber in Konsyl is safe and effective for use during pregnancy.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a physician.
Did you find this article useful? Click to email this page to an expectant friend.Learn how Konsyl Fiber and Supplements can help with other conditions:
Constipation | Constipation in Women | Hemorrhoids | Diverticulitis | Diabetes | Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) | Pregnancy | Cholesterol & Heart Disease | Colon Health | Weight Management*Dulcolax is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Ex-Lax is a registered trademark of Novartis Consumer Health, Inc , Correctol is a registered trademark of Schering-Plough, Inc.