Pregnancy constipation and how to deal with it

QUICK BITES

1. Constipation is rarely serious but more of a discomfort.
2. The most important thing is to drink lots of fluids.
3. Eating fiber rich diet also helps to get relief.

Constipation is a very common occurrence during one’s pregnancy, and the increase in the progesterone hormone is one of the reasons for it. Know how you can tackle constipation during pregnancy.
At least fifty percent of women suffer from constipation during pregnancy. Various reasons are to be blamed for this occurrence like the increasing pressure of the growing uterus on the rectum coupled with the pregnancy hormones at play which slow down digestion and breakdown of food. Morning sickness can cause dietary changes and habits which may cause constipation. Iron supplements are known to cause constipation and if you have a history of constipation your situation gets worse.
Constipation is rarely serious but more of a discomfort but in certain cases chronic constipation can lead to hemorrhoids or piles which can be painful and cause rectal bleeding. Piles and hemorrhoids are treatable and should not be a cause of worry.

Have enough to drink

You must drink at least eight glasses of fluids, be it water, vegetable juice, fruit juice or broth. But juices and broth aren’t substitutes for good old plain water. You could however grab glasses of prune juice every now and then as it is a mild laxative. You could drink this when you are getting clogged. Hot water and lemon is also a very good remedy to let go of constipation. Whatever the case is, fluids are a must.

Eat fiber rich diet

You should eat fiber rich foods like whole grains or dried fruits, vegetables, beans and peas as they will help you to eliminate waste. You could also eat lots of green vegetables and the delicious kiwi fruit too, as it is packed with potent laxative that will help you to go. Every day you must include at least 25 to 35 grams of fiber to your diet. Also, you must try and avoid white bread, white rice, refined cereals and pasta as they are sure to lead to constipation.

Take in supplements

The supplements that are doing good to your pregnancy can also do harm in the form of constipation. Prenatal vitamins, calcium, and iron supplements can very easily lead to constipation. You must consult your doctor and find out how you can save all the trouble of taking these supplements in.

Get moving

Doing some movements throughout the day can also help you to go besides keeping you fit and fine. Go for a brisk walk or you could even swim.
The most important thing is that when nature calls you must answer it by all means. Holding it in will only create further complications and things may turn ugly.