Alleviate Constipation During Pregnancy
Posted: Saturday, March 13, 2010
by Laura McKeever
Maternity Bliss
Pregnancy is just full of some wonderful side effects isn't it? Constipation during pregnancy can be more common than you think, the combination of increased hormones alongside your expanding uterus will cause your digestive system to move slower. Constipation during pregnancy can leave you feeling tired due to your digestive system working over time, it may also keep you awake for that very same reason. Other unpleasant side effects include small adhesions to your rectum through passing large stools, piles and weaker bladder muscles due to straining.
Pay attention to your diet:
Many pregnant women will find that a few alterations to their diet will reduce constipation. Eating a fibre rich breakfast such as 'Fruit and Fibre' every morning is a great place to start, hard-working fibre softens the stools, which allows for them to move through your body faster. To really get things moving, eat some dried apricots and switch all of your bread to whole grain. White carbohydrates may be making your constipation worse, their bulky and starchy content slow down your digestive system.
Fluid's Are Important Too:
In order for your whole digestive system to keep ticking over smoothly, your water intake must remain consistent. Water adds bulk to your stools, making it easier for them to move through your digestive system. Switching some of your daily water intake to orange or prune juice will also aid your digestive system in speeding up significantly, it will provide you and your baby with some vital vitamins too.
Exercise:
Exercise can help remedy constipation by making food move faster through your large intestine. This in turn stimulates the amount of water that is absorbed in to your stools, dry stools are notoriously hard to pass. It is recommended that you wait at least an hour after eating before doing any exercise and that you only use a form of exercise that is recommended for your particular pregnancy. The majority of pregnant women will be okay to simply add a short walk to their daily routine regardless of their pregnancy, so walking is a fantastic place to begin.
Complimentary therapies:
As long as your midwife or OB gives you the all clear to do so, using complimentary therapies such as aromatherapy and homeopathy can work wonders for constipation during pregnancy. Homeopathic remedies are recommended and tailored for use according to your symptoms, and can stimulate your body's natural response to pregnancy ailments. Certain essential oils, such as Neroli Oil can also enhance your digestive function. It is vital that you do not use essential oils during your first trimester. Make the medical professional leading your maternity care aware of the fact that you are using homeopathy, they will check in on you and recommend other methods if it has failed to work.
If constipation persists:
If you find that altering your diet and trying other natural methods does not work, visit your doctor. He should prescribe a mild laxative, safe for use during pregnancy.
You should also consider consulting with a medical professional if you experience piles or weaker bladder muscles as a direct result of constipation. Both of these issues can be remedied with the advice of a midwife, OB or GP.
Remember that although constipation is a common side effect of pregnancy, it should not be one that affects your day to day life. Try the above natural remedies and don't be afraid to approach a medical professional for help if you are really suffering.
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