Methods of dealing with constipation in pregnancy

Constipation during pregnancy can begin at a very early stage of gestation and continued until delivery. The problem of constipation - one of the most common health problems of the majority of expectant mothers.

Causes of constipation in pregnancy

Hormonal factors : Placenta produces a significant amount of the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the ligaments, the tissue softens the inner walls of the uterus and at the same time slows the reduction needed to transport waste through the esophagus. Excess progesterone increases the time needed for digestion, and since the food remains in the colon for a longer time, the liquid is absorbed, causing constipation.

In addition, pregnant women with hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism May face the problem of constipation due to lack of hormone T4 in the body.

Physiological factors : The growth of the fetus pressure exerted by the uterus on the intestine, increases, thus slowing down the process of digestion and causing constipation during pregnancy. Lack of physical activity, maintaining the body in good shape - another common factor in the emergence of the problem of constipation.

Dietary : Lack of fiber and fluids - another common factor in the occurrence of constipation during pregnancy. Most pregnant women experience lack of liquid due to morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy. In addition, the emergence of constipation during pregnancy and abuse affects fat, carbohydrate-rich foods.

Additives : As a rule, in some cases, expectant mothers receive prescribed various supplements that provide essential vitamins and nutrients the body of mother and child. In most of these supplements contain iron and calcium in the body over which affects the digestive system and may be one of the causes of constipation.

Psychological factors : Stress, depression Depression , Irritability, not only affect the nervous system of the pregnant woman, but slow digestion, leading to constipation.

The symptoms of constipation during pregnancy

Symptoms indicative of constipation during pregnancy, typically vary depending on the severity of the problem. The most common symptoms are:

• Bloating and gas
• Hard stool
• Tiredness
• Heartburn
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• The difficulty in defecation
• Prolonged stress in certain cases lead to hemorrhoids - the state, which is accompanied by painful sensations, bleeding, loss of hemorrhoids.

What to do

Laxatives sold in pharmacies without a prescription, usually not recommended for pregnant women - however, if the problem with constipation is severe, doctors usually have no choice. Take laxatives need to be careful, because the digestive system can begin to depend on such drugs and the problem with constipation will remain and after pregnancy. A variety of medications to soften the stool and oral medications must be taken only after consultation with your doctor, because these medicines may contain ingredients that could adversely affect the development of the fetus in the womb.

For bedridden patients are usually prescribed incentive spirometry, which stimulates the lungs and also normalizes the bowels.

In most cases, the problem of constipation during pregnancy, doctors recommend certain changes in lifestyle to minimize the need for medication.

Changes in diet

• Inclusion in the diet of the required amount of fiber - a necessary measure to address the problem with constipation during pregnancy. The daily diet you need to add fresh fruits, vegetables, cereals - such as oats and barley. Custom fiber sources - the bow, whose peel is considered a valuable source of fiber, and soy beans.
• Eating fiber-rich foods - figs, prunes, figs - helps to normalize bowel function. Colon uses fiber contained in the food, for the normalization of the chair, thereby preventing the occurrence of constipation during pregnancy.
• Adding food ginger allows to achieve two goals at once: ginger not only normalizes digestion, preventing constipation, but also helps to relieve the symptoms of morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy.
• To prevent constipation problems during pregnancy, should be included in the diet of whole grains, and give up the greasy fried foods.
• As a "bite" could be included in the diet of fiber-rich biscuits.
• Eating foods containing probiotics, also solves the problem of constipation because probiotics help soften stools and excrete toxins. Probiotics - beneficial bacteria contained in yogurt and other products.

Fluid intake

• To compensate for the loss of fluids due to nausea during pregnancy, you should increase the amount of liquid drunk every day - it will help to provide enough moisture for the normalization of digestion and prevent the occurrence of constipation. In addition, the increase in fluid drunk daily positive impact on the general condition of the body, help to overcome dizziness and dehydration during pregnancy.
• The ideal amount of fluid which need to drink each day to avoid constipation is 3-4 liters - this can be both water and fruit or vegetable juice.
• Tea, coffee and other diuretics - for example, cola, and beverages containing caffeine should be avoided.

Physical exercise

• Doctors recommend that pregnant women small exercise for several reasons. Through regular exercise not only increases energy levels and improves mood, but also normalize digestion - because exercise stimulates the digestive system organs.
• In order to get rid of constipation during pregnancy, you can go swimming, yoga or spend time hiking in the surroundings.
• Another effective form of exercise that is useful for pregnant women - the so-called Kegel exercises Kegel exercises: why should they perform Which are aimed at strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and allow not only to alleviate the symptoms of constipation, but also to make easier and faster delivery.

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