Constipation During Pregnancy
What To Do About Constipation During Pregnancy
The causes of constipation during pregnancy are quite natural and common, though some women skate through their entire maternal phase without the slightest issue. Either situation is a normal one, it merely has to do with the way in which progesterone effects the organs and digestion in the body. Early constipation during pregnancy can be quite a bother, and is present in those whose bodies are more reactive to the heightened levels of this hormone. Progesterone relaxes the digestive tract and causes a slowed metabolism and digestive rate in most women. As the fetus grows, causing the uterus to grow heavier, added pressure to the internal organs and the intestines will aggravate the issue, and constipation ca worsen.
The biggest problem with constipation during pregnancy is that the element we need the most of is so often the culprit. Iron supplements can cause binding and discomfort in even the most healthy and regular person, so don’t worry that you are the only one. Should your constipation during pregnancy become severe with the use of iron supplements, you may want to ask your doctor or midwife about alternate methods for obtaining the proper levels of iron. Cooking with iron pans and skillets is a great way to add more soluble iron to your diet, and of course the ingestion of plenty of greens is a great, too. There are also some herbal and holistic teas that can be used for a milder infusion of iron into the blood.
Another issue with constipation during pregnancy is the formation of varicose veins along the anal wall, or hemorrhoids. These can be extremely uncomfortable, and even painful both during the excretion process and after. There are medications that you can use over the counter after consulting with your obstetrician, and there are a few home remedies that may sooth the burn, itch, or sting as well. Though rarely the cause of serious health problems, hemorrhoids can become severe, and any rectal bleeding or sincere pain should be reported and looked into right away.
The best way to counter constipation during pregnancy is to stay well hydrated and to keep current on your fibrous foods. Wheat germ added to your cereal in the morning is a great choice, along with plenty of bran, raw vegetables, and fruits. It is imperative that you drink at least six large glasses of water each day, even more than this if you are taking fiber supplements. Dehydration can cause constipation that alternates with diarrhea, so keeping your fluid intake at a consistent level will help you to avoid both of these problems. You will also do well to choose a big glass of fruit juice each day, preferably that taken from prunes.