min. lectura
Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman’s body — some exciting, some surprising and some uncomfortable. One common challenge that many women face is constipation during pregnancy. If you’re expecting and struggling with constipation, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll explore what constipation is, why it’s more common during pregnancy and what you can do to find relief.
In this blog:
- What is constipation?
- Why is constipation more common during pregnancy?
- How often should women have a bowel movement?
- Can constipation during pregnancy be prevented?
- How is constipation diagnosed?
- What can women do at home to relieve constipation?
- When should you see a doctor?
- How is constipation treated during pregnancy?
What is constipation?
Constipation is more than just having fewer bowel movements. It usually means stools are hard, dry or difficult to pass. Doctors generally define constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, often accompanied by straining or a feeling that not everything has passed.
Why is constipation more common during pregnancy?
Constipation affects up to 50% of pregnant women, according to the American Pregnancy Association. It can occur at any point during pregnancy, but it often begins in the first trimester and may continue throughout.
The main reasons include:
- Hormonal changes: Higher levels of progesterone relax the intestinal muscles, slowing down movement of stool.
- Iron supplements: Many prenatal vitamins contain iron, which can make stools harder and more difficult to pass.
- Growing uterus: As pregnancy progresses, the expanding uterus can put pressure on the intestines, further slowing things down.
- Lifestyle changes: Fatigue, reduced physical activity or dietary changes can contribute as well.
How often should women have a bowel movement?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, most adults have bowel movements anywhere from three times a day to three times a week. During pregnancy, regularity may change, but feeling bowel discomfort or going several days without a bowel movement is usually a sign of constipation.
How is constipation diagnosed?
Doctors typically diagnose constipation based on your symptoms, such as:
- Fewer than three bowel movements a week
- Hard or lumpy stools
- Straining during bowel movements
- A sense of incomplete evacuation
Your doctor will ask questions about your medical history, typical diet, activity and stools. In most cases, no special tests are needed unless constipation is severe, long-lasting or accompanied by other concerning symptoms that might indicate constipation is caused by another medical issue.
Can constipation during pregnancy be prevented?
While you may not be able to completely avoid constipation, you can reduce the chances by:
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water.
- Eating fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
- Staying physically active with safe exercises such as walking or prenatal yoga can help stimulate bowel movements.
- Establishing a regular routine for meals and bathroom breaks.
What can women do at home to relieve constipation?
Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in relieving constipation. These are some of the same healthy habits you can use to prevent constipation! Here are safe, at-home strategies you can use to find relief:
- Increase fiber intake: Aim for 25–30 grams a day from fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
- Hydrate often: Drink at least 8–12 cups of water daily. Herbal teas and soups also count.
- Stay active: Gentle exercise, like walking, can stimulate bowel function.
- Create a bathroom routine: Try going at the same time each day, often after meals when the digestive system is more active.
- Consider natural aids: Prunes or prune juice are well-known natural remedies.
If these steps don’t provide enough relief, talk with your doctor about other steps that may help.
When should you see a doctor?
Constipation usually isn’t dangerous, but sometimes it signals something more serious. Contact your doctor if you experience:
- Blood in the stool
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Persistent constipation not relieved by lifestyle changes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Vomiting
Your provider may adjust supplements or recommend safe treatments.
How is constipation treated during pregnancy?
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may suggest:
- Adjusting iron supplements or switching to a formulation that’s easier on digestion
- Safe stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, which help make stools easier to pass
- Bulk-forming agents like psyllium husk (such as Metamucil), which add fiber
- Avoiding stimulant laxatives unless specifically prescribed, as these may cause uterine contractions
Always talk to your health care provider before starting any medication or supplement during pregnancy.
Constipation during pregnancy is common, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying active, drinking plenty of water, eating a fiber-rich diet and working closely with your doctor, you can keep your digestive system moving comfortably throughout your pregnancy.
Make an appointment
If you’re looking for compassionate, specialized care during your pregnancy, our team at Texas Children’s Pavilion for Women is here to support you at every step.
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