What are the different types of constipation? There are three types of constipation. The first is the psychosomatic constipation. This occurs within a short period of time only. In this case, a person becomes constipated because of stress or some sudden change in his or her routine. When the cause of the stress is taken out, constipation ceases.
The second is the acute constipation. This is the sudden aggravation of an existing constipation. This needs to be taken care of because serious illness may be causing it.
Last is chronic constipation. This is an irregular bowel movement that lasts a long time and is often referred to as constant constipation. This type has three kinds: the hypotonic constipation or the atonic constipation, the hypertonic constipation or spastic constipation, and the rectal constipation.
A serious issue of constipation is when it occurs during pregnancy because this is a special and sensitive time for women. Any complication is not supposed to be getting in the way of one who is on the family way. Nevertheless, constipation during pregnancy is a typical case. It is one of the top three most uncomfortable complaints that are experienced by pregnant women. There are at least three reasons that can result to constipation during pregnancy.
Common Causes of Constipation During Pregnancy
There are three main causes of constipation while a woman is on the family way. The first is hormones. Hormonal changes happen during pregnancy and these may affect fecal secretion. Your system produces extra progesterone, which causes the muscles to relax and allow the baby to mature and develop inside the mother’s womb. The problem, however, is that the muscles along the walls of the intestines relax too. This will keep the intestines from processing food and waste efficiently.
Second is the altered diet and the addition of supplements. Pregnant women are required by their OB-GYNs to take vitamins that are rich in iron during the period of their pregnancy. This also contributes to the development of constipation during pregnancy. Because of these supplements, tastes can change which results in the pregnant woman having to change her diet too. This change in the eating habit greatly affects bowel movement, especially if the alteration has caused the reduction of fiber-rich food in her eating pattern.
Third is the pressure inside the womb. Over time, during the period of pregnancy, and as the baby develops and grows inside, a lot of pressure is being passed on to the bowel. General tiredness also leads to lack of exercises. These circumstances slow down bowel activity.
How to Relieve Constipation During Pregnancy
Relieving constipation during pregnancy can be a serious thing because certain factors have to be considered, especially if the pregnant woman has sensitive conditions. Pregnancy itself is causing so much discomfort already, and constipation during pregnancy is one of the last things they would want to deal with.
Ease the discomfort left by the constipation on a pregnant woman and everything will be alright. To do that, here are some methods that may help relieve constipation during pregnancy.
First is to increase fiber intake. This is the most popular reason why people become constipated. The required amount of fiber that an average person must take every day is twenty-five to thirty grams. Examples of fiber-rich food are prunes, bran, whole grain food, cereals, certain fruits, and vegetables.
Second, get some exercise. Regular workout is a good way of relieving constipation. However, you have to consult your doctor first before doing any activity to avoid problems. Walking and swimming are good for the body of a pregnant woman.
Finally, drink enough water. This is a requirement even for non-pregnant women. Its natural benefits apply in all circumstances.
If these natural treatments do not work, have your doctor prescribe over-the-counter products that may be suitable for you.
