Constipation in Pregnant Women

Pregnant women tend to have constipation more than most people. This is because the digestive system along with the organ systems experience hormonal changes. During pregnancy, the woman’s body releases more hormones than normal. The hormone progesterone relaxes the stomach muscles, which makes the digestive system sluggish and delayed. This causes constipation and excessive flatulence in pregnant women.

Signs of constipation in pregnant women

1. If there are more than three days between each bowel movement
2. Feces are hard and not easy to passs
3. Lower abdominal pain
4. In some cases, if feces are hard, it can also bleeding in the rectum.

Prevent and treat flatulence in pregnant women

For maintaining regular bowel movements the pregnant women should have
1. Fiber rich food to prevent constipation: Fiber can help intestines work smoothly. Since the digestive system slows down, the fiber rich foods can provide the additional push ad not make the feces hard. Foods like vegetables, fruit, wholegrain, prunes contain fiber for better bowel movements.
2. Drink as much water as you can, herbal tea, fruit juice can also help
3. Consult your doctor for exercises that can be done during pregnancy, they can also help for the bowels to function smoothly and minimize constipation in pregnant women.