Pregnancy Constipation: Safe Laxatives & Soothing Tips
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Time to read 4 min
Table of contents
Introduction Understanding Pregnancy Constipation: Causes of Constipation in Pregnancy: Dietary Fiber Strategies to help with Pregnancy Constipation Being Hydrated also helps with Pregnancy Constipation Home Remedies for Constipation in Pregnancy: Prunes and Prune Juice: The Natural Laxative Safe Laxatives for Pregnancy Constipation Key takeaways: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Introduction
Are you suffering from pregnancy constipation too? Don't worry you are not alone.
Around 40% of pregnant women suffer from pregnancy constipation, especially in the late trimesters.Â
This blog includes what pregnancy constipation really is, what its symptoms and causes are, and natural, safe laxatives to help you manage it effectively.
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Understanding Pregnancy Constipation:
Constipation during pregnancy occurs when one experiences fewer than three bowel movements per week, along with symptoms such as hard, dry stools, abdominal discomfort, and a sense of incomplete evacuation.
Many pregnant people often talk about feeling bloated and carrying a lingering heaviness or sensation that can make everyday life feel less comfortable.
# Up to 40% of pregnancies are affected by constipation at some stage, with risk rising in the later trimesters
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Causes of Constipation in Pregnancy:
#1 Growing uterus
In the later months of pregnancy, the expanding uterus puts pressure on the intestines, making the passage of stool difficult
#2 Prenatal vitamins
Iron and calcium supplements, prescribed during pregnancy, can slow bowel movements and harden stool
#3 Reduced physical activity
Fatigue, bed rest, or fear of overexertion often lead to less movement, further decreasing gut motility
#4 Hormonal Influence
Progesterone is a hormone that increases during pregnancy. Its main job is to relax muscles.Â
When these muscles slow down, food and waste move more slowly through your intestines.Â
That gives your colon extra time to absorb water from the waste, which can make your stools harder to pass.
Dietary Fiber Strategies to help with Pregnancy Constipation
Aim for 28 grams of dietary fiber per day during pregnancy. Introducing fiber gradually and increasing fluid intake can minimize bloating or cramps
Some rich fiber foods include lentils, chia seeds, avocado, raspberries, pear, broccoli.Â
Tip: Spread fiber-rich foods throughout the day instead of only in one meal to minimize digestive discomfort. Always pair fiber with adequate water intake.
Being Hydrated also helps with Pregnancy Constipation
Proper hydration keeps stool soft and supports healthy digestion. Dehydration is a common and often-overlooked cause of pregnancy constipation
Include water-rich foods in your meals, like cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and berries also support hydration.
Home Remedies for Constipation in Pregnancy:
#1 Pelvic Floor Relaxation and Toilet Positioning
Toilet technique: Place your feet on a small stool (mimic a squat) lean forward, and support your belly. This relaxes pelvic muscles and aligns the rectum for easier, more complete evacuation.
Resist the urge to delay: Listen to your body and head to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge, delaying can cause worse constipation.
#2 Abdominal Massage
A gentle, clockwise abdominal massage can encourage the natural movement of the gut and help remove trapped gas and waste and therefore help with constipation.
#3. Apply Castor Oil Pack on Abdomen
Castor oil packs improve circulation and reduce inflammation. It improves bloating and cramps.
#4 Drink Warm Lemon Water
Drinking a glass of warm water with freshly squeezed lemon in the morning helps with digestion, reduces constipation, and hence, helps with bowel movement.
Struggling with Constipation, Heartburn or Bloating? Checkout our other blogs too!
Prunes and Prune Juice: The Natural Laxative
- Prunes (also known as dried plums) and their juice are considered safe for use during pregnancy and help with constipation.
- They provide a unique combination of soluble fiber and sorbitol, a naturally occurring sugar alcohol with gentle laxative properties.
- Sorbitol draws water into the bowel; fiber adds bulk and stimulates movement.
Safe Laxatives for Pregnancy Constipation
# Bulk-Forming Laxatives
They absorb water and swell in the intestines, forming a soft, bulky stool that’s easier to pass.
Psyllium husk:
Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed
Minimally absorbed by the body
May cause mild bloating or gas
# Osmotic Laxatives
- These draw water into the bowel, helping soften stools and ease their passage.
- Safe during pregnancy with medical supervision
- Not for daily use unless advised by your provider
- Can cause diarrhea or affect electrolyte balance if overused
# Stool Softeners
- Gentle and recommended for people dealing with painful stools or taking iron supplements.
- They add moisture to the stool, making it easier and less painful to pass.
Key takeaways:
Bulk-forming laxatives (like psyllium)Â are the safest treatment for constipation and work best when taken with plenty of water.
Osmotic laxatives help soften stools by drawing water into the bowel but may cause bloating or cramping.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What is the safest laxative for pregnancy constipation?
Bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium are usually the safest option for constipation during pregnancy.
How much water should I drink with fiber laxatives?
Drink a full glass of water with bulk-forming laxatives to prevent constipation from getting worseÂ
Are stool softeners okay to take daily?
Stool softeners are considered safe for daily use to relieve constipation, especially if you are taking iron supplements.
Can laxatives cause problems if overused?
Yes, overusing stimulant or osmotic laxatives for constipation can lead to cramping, or dehydration.
