Constipation is a common, unpleasant part of pregnancy. But there are simple, straightforward lifestyle changes you can make to get relief. Your healthcare provider can recommend medications that may help, too. Usually, your symptoms will resolve after you have your baby. Show
OverviewConstipation during pregnancy is unpleasant but common.What is constipation?Having constipation means that you’re struggling to poop, or have a bowel movement. It happens when the food that your body no longer needs (waste) hardens in the lower part of your digestive tract (bowel) instead of moving out as a stool. Most people have had the unpleasant experience of being constipated before, but it’s even more common when you’re pregnant. The hormone changes in your body that make pregnancy possible can increase your chances of becoming constipated. When does constipation in pregnancy start?You may start to feel constipated once the hormone levels in your body increase to support your pregnancy. The changes can happen as early as the second or third month of your first trimester. How common is constipation in pregnancy?About 16 to 39% of people get constipated at some point during pregnancy. You’re most likely to get constipated in the third trimester, when the fetus is heaviest and putting the most pressure on your bowel. Constipation can happen in all three trimesters, though. Sometimes, you’ll continue to be constipated up to three months after the baby’s born. Symptoms and CausesWhat causes constipation during pregnancy?Hormone changes in your body during pregnancy and your daily habits can increase your chances of constipation. Causes for constipation during pregnancy include:
What are the symptoms of constipation?Releasing a stool feels satisfying. Constipation feels just the opposite. You can tell you’re constipated when:
Sometimes, constipation leads to or worsens hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Like constipation, both conditions are common during pregnancy. Is constipation a sign of pregnancy?You may feel constipated during pregnancy, but being constipated doesn’t mean you’re pregnant. There are better ways to tell if you’re pregnant, like taking a pregnancy test. Diagnosis and TestsHow is constipation during pregnancy diagnosed?Your healthcare provider may ask you how much you’re pooping and what your stools look like. Other questions about your daily habits can help your provider find out what’s likely causing your constipation or making it worse. Your provider may ask:
Management and TreatmentHow do you relieve constipation during pregnancy?You can’t stop pregnancy hormones from making it harder for you to poop, but you can make other changes that can help.
What medications can I take to relieve constipation when I’m pregnant?If you can’t get relief through lifestyle changes, your healthcare provider may prescribe a laxative or a fiber supplement that can help. Always check with your provider before taking any laxatives or supplements, though. Not all of them have been tested for safety and effectiveness during pregnancy. Avoid home remedies for constipation, like castor oil or mineral oil, unless your provider recommends you take them. What are side effects of the treatment?Some laxatives can cause you to become dehydrated and imbalance your electrolytes. This is why it’s so important to be sure that you’re taking the right laxative and that you’re taking it for the right amount of time. Speak to your provider to be sure. PreventionHow can I reduce my risk of becoming constipated during pregnancy?You can reduce your risk of becoming constipated by doing the same things you would do to manage constipation. Pay attention to how much fiber you’re eating and fluids you’re drinking. Schedule exercise that feels doable for you. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates and light aerobics are all good options to keep your bowel active. Outlook / PrognosisWhat can I expect if I’m constipated during my pregnancy?After you’ve had your baby and your hormone levels begin to return to their pre-pregnancy levels, your bowel movements will likely return to normal. Living WithWhen should I see my healthcare provider?Reach out to your provider if you’ve been constipated for longer than a few weeks. Don’t dread trips to the bathroom when your provider can help you. Be sure to get your provider’s OK on any medication you take when you’re pregnant. This includes fiber supplements and laxatives. Frequently Asked QuestionsCan constipation hurt the baby during pregnancy?No. All the pressure that builds up in your belly because of constipation may make you worry for your baby. But don’t stress. Constipation may be unpleasant for you, but it won’t harm your baby. A note from Cleveland Clinic You may have to make some changes to manage constipation when you’re pregnant. But there are straightforward things you and your provider can do to help get you relief. The foods you eat, the fluids you drink, the exercise you do and the medicine you take all make a difference when it’s time to visit the toilet. Put good habits into place so that your memories of pregnancy don’t include having to suffer through uncomfortable bowel movements. Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 10/19/2021. References
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