Between 15% and 30% of pregnant women experience constipation. Digestive transit issues are very common during this time, and hormonal changes, along with the space your baby takes up in your belly, can contribute to constipation during pregnancy. Here is everything you need to know to relieve it as quickly as possible.

What is constipation?

Constipation is defined as a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements and difficulty passing stool. A frequency of fewer than 3 bowel movements per week is often mentioned, but this mainly depends on your usual pattern. If you notice a significant slowdown in bowel movement frequency , it may be constipation. It can also be accompanied by difficulty passing stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, or cramps.

Constipation is often due to poor habits. Nutrition plays a key role: low fiber intake and insufficient water are the main causes, as is an excessively low caloric intake. Lack of physical activity is the second most common cause of constipation, which is why this condition is frequently seen in older adults, bedridden individuals, or pregnant women.

Constipation can be temporary or chronic. When it is temporary, it is often enough to adjust a few lifestyle habits, although certain treatments may sometimes be necessary. It is considered chronic when it lasts more than 6 months. In that case, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, who can prescribe tests to identify the causes of this condition. Pregnancy is also a period that can strongly contribute to constipation. It is therefore recommended to be vigilant if symptoms appear .

What are the causes of constipation during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, constipation is more common than usual, whether you are already prone to it or not. There are 3 factors that can contribute to constipation in pregnant women:

• Hormones during pregnancy and, more specifically, progesterone, have a relaxing effect on the fibers of the uterus and the intestines. This helps reduce uterine contractions. However, it also slows transit and therefore increases the risk of constipation.

• Reduced physical activity significantly increases the risk of constipation. You can ask the person who is doing the monitoring of your pregnancy about sports suitable for pregnancy.

• Iron supplementation can have two opposite effects in pregnant women. In some, it can slow transit, leading to constipation; in others, it can cause diarrhea .

The symptoms of constipation are the same whether you are pregnant or not. However, stomach aches, cramps, and similar discomforts can worry you during pregnancy or be confused with other pregnancy symptoms . In addition, constipation can be the cause of hemorrhoids , another condition often encountered when you are expecting a baby. So, do not hesitate to seek advice from your doctor, midwife, or gynecologist, who can guide you and reassure you about your situation.

How to prevent or cure constipation?

Most of the time, healthy lifestyle habits are enough to resolve constipation during pregnancy. However, healthcare professionals may sometimes suggest treatments to help you regain more regular bowel movements. This condition is closely linked to pregnancy; after delivery, everything should return to normal.

A good lifestyle

During pregnancy, a healthy lifestyle is recommended because it can help resolve many issues related to this period and also supports a healthy environment for your baby’s development. These tips are worth adopting whether or not you experience constipation, as they can benefit you throughout pregnancy and even afterwards.

An appropriate diet

During pregnancy, it is recommended to follow appropriate nutrition , as this can help prevent or even relieve constipation. Prioritize sources of fiber during meals, such as fruits and vegetables. Some, like prunes, are known to support transit, while others, like bananas and carrots, are known for the opposite effect. It is also recommended to avoid cereal husks, which can be irritating, and to prefer whole grains, which can help improve intestinal function.

The right daily habits

There are a few good habits you can adopt to improve your bowel transit . First, drink plenty of water or fluids in general, while avoiding sugary drinks and energy drinks (tea, coffee, etc.). It is also helpful to keep moving, and there are sports activities suitable for pregnancy . Movement is essential for preventing constipation. In addition, try not to hold back when you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, and adopt a comfortable position with your knees slightly elevated when you’re on the toilet, using a small step stool, for example.

What are the suitable treatments for constipation during pregnancy?

In general, it is best to avoid self-medication and to seek advice from a healthcare professional . This is especially true during pregnancy. Many treatments are incompatible with this period in a woman’s life, which is why there are recommendations and prohibitions linked to it.

Medications permitted during pregnancy

There are different types of medications to relieve constipation. These treatments should never be taken without the advice of a healthcare professional, especially because some can reduce the absorption of certain vitamins needed during pregnancy. Even if some medications are not recommended during pregnancy, others may be effective if lifestyle changes are not sufficient .

If your constipation is due to iron supplementation, different molecules are available. Do not hesitate to discuss this with the healthcare professional monitoring your pregnancy so the best solution can be offered to you.

Natural treatments allowed during pregnancy

Homeopathic treatments are sometimes recommended during pregnancy, especially for constipation. You can seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor, who can guide you on the appropriate molecules to take.

Acupuncture can also be an excellent aid in addressing transit issues. Some acupuncturists—and even some midwives—hold an acupuncture diploma; you can ask your medical team or personal circle if they know a trusted professional.

Osteopathy is also recognized for helping to relieve and reactivate transit. These techniques can sometimes help you avoid medication , which is always preferable during pregnancy.

Are there any risks associated with constipation during pregnancy?

As with all conditions, there are certain risks, but with constipation, they are usually more uncomfortable than anything else . However, complications can occur, which is why it is best to avoid letting it worsen and to address it as soon as possible by consulting your doctor or midwife.

Constipation during pregnancy: when to worry?

There is usually little reason to worry about constipation, even during pregnancy. However, if you notice that it persists despite good dietary and hygiene habits, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, especially if your pain is unbearable or if you experience .

Is constipation dangerous during pregnancy?

Constipation is not actually dangerous. What it can mainly cause is a hemorrhoidal flare-up due to excessive straining, and, in very rare cases, a bowel obstruction. That is why it is essential to not let it become established , especially during pregnancy.

Constipation is very common during pregnancy, but it is often easily resolved by adopting healthy habits. It is best not to let this kind of discomfort become established, as it can be uncomfortable and comfort is paramount during this period of your life.