For constipation in pregnant women. Fresh cabbage salad with carrots and onions

While expecting a child, many women experience such an unpleasant phenomenon as constipation.

Difficulty defecating causes discomfort to the pregnant woman herself, and can also negatively affect the condition of the unborn baby.

It is necessary to have a good understanding of the issue of using laxatives during pregnancy, which drugs are recommended, will not harm the woman’s health and will not affect the fetus.

What are the remedies for constipation during pregnancy?

Here are some remedies for constipation during pregnancy:

1. Laxatives that contain lactulose - the mechanism of action of these drugs is to increase the number of lactobacilli, which increases acidity in the intestines, softens the intestinal contents and gently increases peristalsis. Absolutely safe, do not delay the absorption of vitamins and long-term use are not addictive. Prices in pharmacies: from 230 rubles.
2. Macrogol preparations - improve the movement of feces through the intestines due to the absorption of liquid, are able to remove toxins, and do not penetrate into the bloodstream. Cost: from 150 rubles.
3. Rectal suppositories - activate the voiding reflex and loosen stool. Cost in Russia: from 140 rubles.

Recommended laxatives for early pregnancy

Duphalac

The syrup is available in bottles of 200, 500, 1000 ml.

Contraindications:

Side effects:

Gas formation is common at the beginning of use. Very rarely - loose stool, abdominal pain.

Price from 300 rubles.

Normolakt

Syrup in 100 ml bottles.

Contraindications:

Side effects:

As a rule, it is well tolerated. May experience: bloating, mild nausea.

Price from 450 rubles.

Prelax

Oral solution 220, 400 ml, also in a cardboard package dry powder for making syrup 4.8 g.

Contraindicated:

Side effects include the appearance of gas in the intestines in the first 2 days of administration.

Cost from 250 rubles.

Drugs for use in the 3rd trimester

Here is a list of medications to take for later pregnancy.

Microlax

Release form: microenemas 5 ml in a package of 4 pieces.

Contraindications: allergic reactions to the composition of the substance. When taking it, a burning sensation sometimes occurs.

Cost from 330 rubles.

Norgalax

Available in tubes - cannulas with a volume of 10 grams in a box of 6 pieces.

Prohibited if observed:

With prolonged use, the following may be observed: rectal pain, itching and burning sensation in the rectal area, diarrhea, urticaria, gas formation.

Cost from 410 rubles.

Glycerin suppositories

Suppositories for rectal use are sold in a dosage of 2.25 g, 10 pieces per box.

Contraindicated:

With long-term treatment it is possible inflammatory process in the intestines, addiction may occur at the physiological level, resulting in the absence of independent bowel movements.

Cost from 131 rubles.

Folk recipes

Medicines for nursing mothers

Lactulose-based medications are used:

• Duphalac.
• Lactulose Poly.
• Normaze.
• Romphalac.

Medicines from the macrogol group:

• Fortrans.
• Forlax.
• Forteza.
• RomPharm.
• Transiner.

Herbal preparations:

• Senade.
• Sennalax.
• Regulax.
• Glaxenna.

It is important to understand that taking laxatives while expecting a baby is a last resort. Often it is enough to eliminate all provoking factors:

1. Products with fastening properties:
   • smoked, salted, fried, fatty meat;
   • fish or poultry;
   • sushi;
   • fast food;
   • fresh bakery;
   • White bread;
   • strong tea;
   • coffee;
   • chocolate;
   • milk;
   • rice and semolina porridge;
   • fermented milk products, more than 24 hours have passed since the production date;
   • pasta;
   • applesauce;
   • persimmon;
   • blueberry;
   • pomegranate;
   • quince;
   • black currant;
   • grape;
   • mashed potatoes;
   • all legumes;
   • sweet and boiled corn;
   • spinach;
   • cucumbers;
   • peaches;
   • apples;
   • conservation;
   • eggplant;
   • cabbage.
2. Products with a laxative effect:
   • dried apricots;
   • prunes;
   • beet;
   • fresh pineapple juice;
   • figs;
   • plums;
   • apricots;
   • cherry;
   • kiwi;
   • watermelons;
   • melons;
   • zucchini;
   • fresh fermented milk - low-fat kefir, fermented baked milk;
   • whole wheat bread;
   • bran;
   • vegetable oil;
   • oatmeal and buckwheat porridge.

Constipation is a problem that affects approximately 50% of expectant and already nursing mothers. To eliminate and treat this unpleasant illness, a variety of laxative drugs have now been created, suitable for different periods pregnancy and after childbirth.

It is worth noting that medications during these periods are prescribed at exceptional case and it is possible to get rid of constipation simply by following a diet, a special diet, strengthening your health by playing sports and walking in the fresh air.

Stories from our readers

Conquered hemorrhoids at home. It's been a month since I forgot about my bumps. Oh, I tried so many methods - nothing helped. How many times did I go to the doctors, but they prescribed me useless medications over and over again, and when I returned, the doctors recommended surgery. I finally got over my illness, all thanks to this article. Anyone who has hemorrhoids should read it!

User comments

Alexandra 7 days ago

Yesterday a big one came out (about the size of a bean) hemorrhoidal node. This happened once before, but then it somehow went away. And now it’s so big and it feels like it’s not going to pass. It hurts, but not much, more of an itch. I'm upset all day. Please advise something!

Daria 7 days ago

I developed hemorrhoids after childbirth. I thought it would go away on its own with time, but that wasn’t the case. Not only did it not pass, but it also began to progress. A doctor I know advised Cream Healthy for treatment. Within a week, there was no bleeding, no bumps, no pain. Now I try to undergo prophylaxis annually.

P.S. Only I’m from Moscow and couldn’t find them in our pharmacies, so I ordered them online.

50% of expectant mothers experience constipation during pregnancy. Many people consider this symptom to be the norm in the current situation, but this is a mistaken opinion.

It is very important to monitor the regularity of bowel movements, since prolonged or frequent absence of bowel movements threatens the course of pregnancy.

A woman’s body undergoes serious changes during pregnancy, and constipation in the early stages occurs more often than usual.

Causes of constipation in early pregnancy

Constipation in early pregnancy can manifest itself as a feeling of incomplete bowel movements. Unpleasant symptoms are caused by one or more reasons:

1. Increase in the hormone progesterone. It is designed to relax smooth muscles, primarily the uterus. Since the intestine consists of similar type muscles, then he is also subject to low activity.
2. Reception by a pregnant woman medications to replenish iron and calcium. The elements can change the qualitative composition of feces and significantly compact its structure. This process causes constipation.
3. Eating disorders. Most often, insufficient fiber intake.
4. Enlargement of the uterus during pregnancy. The organ begins to squeeze the intestines.
5. Nervous disorders that can cause decreased intestinal motility. This usually happens against the background of a woman’s internal experiences related to the health and life of the child.
6. Toxicosis. Manifests itself in frequent and prolonged attacks of nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Symptoms provoke a decrease in appetite and fluid intake. Fecal masses are not able to fully form under existing conditions and constipation occurs during early pregnancy. Manifestations of toxicosis occur in the first trimester of pregnancy.
7. Low level motor activity. As a rule, normal bowel activity is only possible with normal physical activity. During pregnancy, situations are possible in which a woman is forced to remain in bed: problems with the spine, threat of miscarriage, high body weight.
8. Lack of fluid, observed to avoid swelling of the extremities.

Constipation during early pregnancy occurs much less frequently than in the 2nd or 3rd trimester.

What are the consequences of constipation?

Problems with bowel movements in early pregnancy increase the risk of complications. The gastrointestinal tract is adjacent to the genitourinary system.

When pregnancy occurs, the uterus enlarges significantly and is pressed even more tightly against the intestines, so the health of the expectant mother depends on this.

The most common consequences of long-term constipation are the following:

1. Haemorrhoids. Due to the heavy load on the vessels, hemorrhoids may develop. During pregnancy, even in the early stages, the intestinal walls experience pressure from the uterus. The resulting constipation increases the risk of hemorrhoidal lumps several times.
2. Miscarriage. This complication occurs against the background of the influence of a swollen intestine on the uterine area, thereby causing an increase in tone. Constipation is especially dangerous in the early stages of pregnancy.
3. Intoxication. Long-term constipation during pregnancy is accompanied by excessive accumulation of feces in the intestines, the formation of a putrefactive process. Next, there is an active release of toxins into the blood of a pregnant woman, poisoning the entire body and complicating the course of pregnancy.
4. Inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract and genital organs. Occurs due to the active growth of the number of pathogenic bacteria against the background stagnation in the intestines.
5. Dysbacteriosis and stomach disorders in the unborn baby. Pathological microflora during constipation spreads into the vagina when active labor activity, the child can become infected with such bacteria. After birth, the child suffers from colic and problems with bowel movements.
6. Colpitis. Constipation during pregnancy, both in the early and late stages, can provoke the development of colpitis, which will cause postpartum infection in the pelvic organs.
7. Early labor. Develops against the background of strong attempts to perform the act of defecation.
8. Termination of pregnancy, threat of development of defects in the fetus. Many medications and herbs can have a detrimental effect on pregnancy.

To exclude a pathogenic factor, you need to consult a specialist and take only safe medications.

With timely assistance to a woman suffering from constipation in the early stages of pregnancy, complications are almost excluded.

How to treat constipation

Treatment of constipation during pregnancy requires the help of a qualified specialist who is able to prescribe adequate therapy.

What to do if a pregnant woman is strictly forbidden to take any medications, but still needs to get rid of constipation?

Prohibited methods of treatment

Not all methods of treating and preventing constipation are suitable for pregnant women. For pregnant women, there is a list of permitted and prohibited drugs.

Prohibited methods against constipation in pregnant women:

1. Taking herbal laxative decoctions or infusions. Herbs cause increased intestinal activity and spasms, which carries a high risk of miscarriage.
2. Use of enemas. In a normal situation, a woman can get rid of constipation with the help of enemas, but this method is contraindicated in pregnant women. This is explained by the fact that when performing a simulation of defecation, feces are released in an “explosive” manner. The risk of developing uterine contractions, miscarriage, and premature birth increases. It is allowed to do enemas only immediately before childbirth, as a cleansing of the intestines, in preparation for the birth of the baby.
3. Use Vaseline oil and castor oil. Oil laxatives are great ordinary people, have a mild effect and cause feces slowly. However, in pregnant women it can cause problems with the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, disorders of the pancreas, and liver.

Among the medicinal laxatives it is not recommended to take the following:

1. Salt base of osmotic agents: magnesia, coral salt, sodium sulfate. They are capable of disrupting a woman’s water-mineral balance from normal.
2. Medicines that have an irritating effect on gastrointestinal tract: Gutalax, Dulcolax, Senade.
3. Preparations with a filling effect. These include drugs based on seaweed or methylcellulose. Lead to increased activity of intestinal motility.

The exception is the laxative Fortrans, and some other drugs that are made on the basis of polyethylene glycol.

Permitted treatments

Treatment of constipation in early pregnancy should include several stages - dietary food, moderate mobility, removal of dysbacteriosis and treatment of possible existing diseases.

But not all pregnant women can do it physical exercise or exclude medications containing iron.

To carefully relieve constipation in pregnant women, the following medications are recommended:

1. Microlax. The product has very few contraindications. Available in the form of microenemas. Recommended primarily for children and pregnant women. The effect appears within 5 minutes after application.
2. Glycerin rectal suppositories. Recommended for constipation even in newborns. The drug does not increase the tone of the uterus and penetration into the blood.
3. Duphalac. Available in syrup form and suitable for repeated use. The composition includes a probiotic that saturates the intestinal microflora with beneficial bacteria. The feces soften easily and the intestines are emptied without difficulty.

Any medicine that is permitted during pregnancy according to the instructions must be agreed with your doctor.

Non-drug treatment

You can get rid of constipation during pregnancy by eating some laxative foods. Many recipes contain ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store.

1. Grind dried dried apricots, prunes and raisins (2 tablespoons each) and mix with 0.25 cups of honey. Take 2 small spoons orally once a day before bed with warm water.
2. Prepare and chop 100 grams of oatmeal flakes, beets and prunes. Pour into 8 glasses clean water and boil. Let it brew and cool. Take 1 glass of strained broth at night. The infusion can be stored for no more than 48 hours in the refrigerator.

In the event that a woman is not prohibited from physical activity, it is recommended to perform simple exercises to relieve intestinal tension.

Prevention

The most the best way To avoid suffering from constipation during pregnancy is to follow the prevention recommendations. Basic rules for eliminating or treating difficult bowel movements:

1. Increase meals to 5-6 times a day, eat in small portions.
2. Include fiber in your diet (raw vegetables, crumbly porridge, muesli).
3. Be sure to eat fruits fermented milk products and vegetable salads seasoned with vegetable oil.
4. The consumption of carbonated water, tea, coffee, pasta and decoys.
5. Cabbage foods, fried and smoked semi-finished products are not recommended.
6. Ensure adequate fluid intake. During the day you can drink compotes, plain water, and fruit drinks. Be sure to start the morning with 1 glass of water to start the gastrointestinal tract.
7. I cook food in liquid and puree form so that food is digested better and faster, without creating stagnation.

If a pregnant woman follows all the recommendations, but constipation still does not go away, she should consult her doctor.

Many disorders of the body primarily occur against the background of the patient’s poor lifestyle. Depending on the results of the examination, the specialist will prescribe more serious treatment methods.

Useful video

The individuality of pregnant women is also reflected in the frequency of visits to the toilet. Some women have bowel movements 2-3 times a day, while others have bowel movements once every two days.

At the same time, women complain of difficulty in stool, pain when visiting the toilet and a feeling of incomplete emptying. With chronic constipation, these symptoms may be supplemented by loss of appetite, a coating on the tongue, or muscle pain, and deterioration of the skin.

More than half of pregnant women experience various bowel dysfunctions.

This frequency is due to changes that occur in the mother’s body during pregnancy.

What are the common causes of constipation in pregnant women?

In the first trimester, the success of pregnancy depends on progesterone levels. This hormone relaxes the muscles of the uterus to prevent spontaneous miscarriage. It has a similar effect on other organs, including weakening intestinal motility.

• Growing uterus.

In the second and third trimester, constipation occurs due to the fact that the intestines are compressed by the growing uterus, which makes it difficult for the passage of feces.

• Iron supplements.

They are prescribed to many expectant mothers for... Some of these drugs cause constipation.

• Psychological factor.

During this period, a woman’s nervous system experiences serious stress - stress, anxiety, fear upcoming birth. All this can provoke psychogenic disorders in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Lack of physical activity.

A sedentary lifestyle or bed rest, which is prescribed for, leads to a slowdown in intestinal function.

• Poor nutrition and drinking regime.

Most often it affects intestinal function Negative influence a combination of several factors.

What are the dangers of constipation during pregnancy?

Besides unpleasant symptoms(discomfort, bloating and pain in the abdomen) constipation can cause severe pregnancy complications.

When feces remain in the intestines for a long time, the intestinal mucosa absorbs toxins, which then enter the blood.

This can cause intoxication of the body and disturbances in the development of the fetus.

During pregnancy, with constipation, the outflow of blood from the pelvic vessels is disrupted, which can provoke.

Injury to the mucous membrane by hard feces and straining when going to the toilet lead to the development of anal fissures. In this case, the process of bowel movement is accompanied by pain and bleeding.

Fear of pain makes some women subconsciously put off going to the toilet, thereby aggravating the problem even more. Straining is a particular danger when trying to defecate.

In the early stages of pregnancy, constipation can lead to miscarriage, in later stages - to. What to do if you have constipation during pregnancy?

Diet to relieve constipation

Treatment of constipation begins with changing a woman’s eating behavior: the diet, drinking regimen and food processing methods are reviewed.

To improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, food should be taken in small portions 4-5 times a day.

The break between meals should not exceed 4 hours. Recommended methods of heat treatment of products are boiling, steaming and baking in the oven.

A pregnant woman's body should receive sufficient quantity liquid (1.5-2 liters daily), otherwise the feces will begin to harden and linger in the intestines. Many women restrict fluids, especially in last trimester pregnancy, fearing.

This approach is wrong. Swelling is caused not by water, but by salt, which retains water in the tissues. Therefore, it is necessary to limit your salt intake and drink enough water.

It is possible to combat constipation by consuming mineral water containing magnesium (Essentuki, Donatmg) or kefir. Kefir must be fresh, because a product 2-3 days old has a fixing effect.

It is useful to drink a glass of non-carbonated water after waking up. cold water with a teaspoon of honey or lemon juice, this activates intestinal motility.

The menu should include dishes made from foods rich in fiber. It helps increase the volume of stool, which allows it to move faster through the intestines. Fresh vegetables and fruits, leafy salads, and bran bread are rich in fiber.

A diet to relieve constipation should include following products and dishes:

In order not to suffer from constipation, already in the first trimester, you should give up fatty, fried, spicy, salty and sweet foods, as they contribute to irritation of the intestinal walls.

If, in addition to constipation, a pregnant woman is bothered by bloating and increased gas formation, you need to exclude from the diet dishes from white cabbage, legumes, spinach.

Pureed or viscous dishes (semolina porridge, pureed soups) are undesirable, as they slow down the intestines.

Rice, hard cheese, pears, hawthorn, black currant, pomegranate, strong tea, coffee, cocoa and chocolate have strengthening properties. These foods should be consumed in moderation or completely eliminated during pregnancy.

Folk remedies

IN folk medicine There are proven and safe recipes for normalizing intestinal function during pregnancy.

• You can get rid of constipation using a decoction of prunes and beets.

To prepare it you will need 100 g of prunes, rolled oats and beets. The prepared ingredients are mixed, 2 liters of water are poured in and boiled for 1 hour over low heat. The resulting broth is filtered, cooled and taken 1 glass at night.

• Flaxseed can be used as a source of fiber and nutrients.

To prepare the decoction, pour 1 teaspoon of flax seeds into a glass of boiling water and leave for 4 hours in a warm place. The unstrained decoction is drunk before bedtime.

Before taking popular herbal infusions, which are widely used in folk medicine, you should consult your doctor. Many medicinal herbs, including senna, buckthorn, and joster fruits are contraindicated during pregnancy.

• At severe constipation on last weeks During pregnancy, topical application of Vaseline oil is possible.

It makes defecation easier by lubricating the walls of the anus and reduces pain. Long-term use of this remedy is unsafe, because... active ingredients Vaseline oil can accumulate in tissues.

Medicines: pros and cons

During pregnancy, any medications for constipation should be taken only after consulting a doctor. Anti-constipation medications approved during pregnancy do not provide harmful effects on the fetus and do not affect the contractile function of the uterus.

Osmotic laxatives will help you go to the toilet if you are constipated. The drugs “Forlax”, “Tanzipeg”, “Lavacol” normalize the consistency of stool and stimulate the process of bowel movement without irritating its walls. They can be taken for a long time.

Another group of drugs approved for use by pregnant women are lactulose-based drugs.

They help increase the amount of feces and accelerate their movement.

Constipation medications containing lactulose (“Normaze”, “Goodlak”, “Portalak”) are recommended for pregnant women and newborns, since they are completely eliminated from the body without being absorbed into the intestinal walls.

Another popular product based on lactulose, “” has a probiotic effect, populating the intestines with beneficial microflora.

If necessary quick cleaning intestines are used local remedies- suppositories or microenemas.

Pregnant women are allowed to use suppositories with glycerin or sea ​​buckthorn oil. They act gently, without causing strong contractions of the intestinal walls. Sea buckthorn suppositories have a wound-healing effect, therefore they are indicated for anal fissures.

Regular cleansing enemas It is done to pregnant women in the most extreme cases, when there has been no stool for several days, and other means do not produce the desired effect.

An alternative to this procedure are microenemas (“Microlax”). They contain a ready-made solution, the effect of which occurs after 10-15 minutes.

The action of many laxatives is based on severe irritation intestinal walls, which can lead to increased tone or cramping contractions of the uterus.

This may cause miscarriage or premature birth. To the number similar means, contraindicated during pregnancy, include Bisacodyl, Regulax and other popular laxatives.

Preparations containing senna (“Senade”) can cause fetal developmental pathologies.

How to prevent: prevention methods

Constipation can be prevented by following simple recommendations.

You need to eat properly and sparingly, and not limit your fluid intake. The diet should contain foods that have a laxative effect.

In the absence of contraindications, physical activity is necessary. Hiking, swimming, and special sets of exercises for pregnant women are recommended. Movement stimulates intestinal peristalsis, but before starting specialized exercises you need to consult a gynecologist.

The problem of constipation during pregnancy requires an integrated approach. Reception medicines It will temporarily alleviate the condition of the expectant mother, but will not eliminate the cause of constipation.

For proper operation intestines requires changes in nutrition, physical activity and normalization psychological state women.

Constipation is not just an ailment that worsens the well-being of a pregnant woman. It can lead to serious consequences for the health of the mother and child, so it must be treated.

One of typical problems problems that pregnant women face are difficulties with bowel movements (to put it simply, constipation).

Causes

• During pregnancy, especially in the second half, the intestines are compressed by the enlarging uterus. This leads to disruption of blood outflow and the occurrence of venous stagnation in the pelvic vessels. As a result, hemorrhoids may develop - enlargement of the veins of the rectum and, as a result, constipation.
• The human body produces special substances that stimulate intestinal contractions. During pregnancy, the susceptibility of the intestinal muscles to this kind of stimulants is significantly reduced. Nature “ordained” it very wisely - after all, the intestines and the uterus have a common innervation, therefore any excessive activation of intestinal motility can stimulate the contractile activity of the uterus, causing a threat of miscarriage. Unfortunately, this positive defensive reaction also has undesirable consequences- constipation in pregnant women.
• The development of constipation is facilitated by hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. In particular, the digestive process slows down under the influence of the pregnancy hormone progesterone.
• It is no secret that pregnant women are often emotionally unstable, prone to stress, and suffer from unreasonable fears. Modern medicine has come to the conclusion that constipation in general and, in particular, constipation in pregnant women is often caused by stress and other psychological factors. Women after childbirth are less likely to suffer from constipation - perhaps because their psycho-emotional state after childbirth quickly and significantly improves.
• Allergic and autoimmune processes also play a certain role in the development of constipation.

Pregnancy and constipation. How does constipation occur?

Constipation is the absence of bowel movements for three days or more. In pregnant women, constipation may be accompanied by a feeling of incomplete release and pain in the abdomen (usually in the left half). With hemorrhoids, streaks of blood may be present in the stool. Some women, along with abdominal pain, experience a burning sensation in the rectum and itching in the anus. Constipation may also cause nausea, bitterness in the mouth, bloating, and rumbling in the stomach.

Treatment

Diet helps cope with constipation. As much fiber as possible should enter the intestines. It is not digested, but only swells, increasing the volume of feces and promoting bowel movement. Therefore, your diet should include carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, beets, zucchini, pumpkin, apples, as well as wholemeal bread and dried fruits. Often they give a good laxative effect dairy products: kefir, yogurt, as well as kvass, sour cabbage soup. Vegetable fats are useful: when broken down, they form fatty acid stimulating peristalsis.

It is better to use prunes as an infusion: pour 100 g of fruit with two glasses of boiling water, add a little sugar, cover with a lid and leave for 10-12 hours. It's better to do this in the evening. The next day, drink half a glass of the infusion before meals, and eat the plums. Another remedy for constipation is to drink a glass of cold water on an empty stomach. You can add a spoon of honey to it.

You should not get carried away with strong tea, black coffee, cocoa, chocolate, white bread, flour and slimy soups, semolina, blueberries. All these products, as well as dry food, have a fixing effect.

In case of severe bloating, it is allowed to take infusions of chamomile flowers, mint leaves, caraway seeds, dill, as well as carbolene ( Activated carbon). But only in quantities recommended by your doctor.

You should also try not to stand for long periods of time, do not lift weights, and do gymnastics to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. By the way, physical exercise will enhance intestinal motility.

How not to treat constipation during pregnancy?

Physiotherapeutic methods of treatment (electrophoresis of novocaine, inductothermy, electrical stimulation, diadynamic currents, sinusoidal modulated currents), often used for constipation, are contraindicated for pregnant women: there is a great danger of stimulating the contractile activity of the uterus, sensitizing the body (i.e. increasing its sensitivity to various kinds irritants), adverse effects on the fetus.

It is not advisable to take laxatives because of the possible miscarriage. Especially with constipation in early pregnancy, if there is a threat of miscarriage. This applies not only to such potent drugs as magnesium sulfate, Carlsbad salt, Castor oil, but also weaker ones - buckthorn bark, rhubarb, joster fruits, senna leaves. The drugs kafeol and besacodyl cause cramping pain in the abdomen and frequent loose stools. Therefore, it is better to avoid laxatives and limit yourself to foods rich in fiber.

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

⅔ of women experience constipation during pregnancy. This is indeed a very common problem. But how do you understand that we are talking about pathology?

What signals should you pay attention to to avoid constipation during pregnancy?

Doctors list the main symptoms of constipation during pregnancy as:

By the way, pushing hard during the toilet is quite dangerous for the body of a pregnant woman, so doctors say not to do this. It is better to give an enema, although you should not abuse them either.

Causes

But why does constipation occur during pregnancy? Doctors even have several answers to this question:

Exacerbation of chronic diseases. Pregnancy is a strong stress for the body, often leading to the activation of many diseases. So if the patient had chronic hemorrhoids, even treated, the situation may worsen.

Lack of certain substances. Very often constipation occurs during pregnancy from iron, or rather from its deficiency. And from calcium. Especially in the first trimester, when the child’s body is actively developing, and he needs these elements in large quantities.

Changing your diet. During toxicosis, women often simply eat what the body can accept. But the intestines require fiber and fermented milk products for normal functioning. And a lot of liquid. If all this does not happen, going to the toilet risks becoming painful.

Lack of water. Whenever severe swelling its quantity is greatly limited, which leads to problems in the digestive system.

How to prevent it?

It's no secret that prevention is best medicine. So, how to prevent constipation during pregnancy, what should you do? A lot depends on when exactly you asked this question.

An already pregnant woman can reconsider her approach to lifestyle and diet. Move more, more fluids, more relaxation. Less of anything that causes active formation of gases.

It's best to go to fractional meals. That is, eat relatively small portions several times a day. With this approach, constipation during pregnancy occurs very rarely and does not have serious consequences. In addition, the following recommendations must be followed:

Remove from diet:

• coffee and strong black tea;
• pastries and white bread;
• bananas;
• slimy soups;
• semolina porridge;
• wheat bran;
• polished rice;
• blueberries;
• quince;
• pears;
• pomegranate;
• hawthorn;
• bananas;
• black currant;
• legumes;
• walnuts;
• hard cheeses;
• no fatty or fried, too salty and spicy;

• For dinner, eat kefir or other fermented milk products, as well as vegetables and fruits. Everything else is heavy food, which is best left for the first half of the day;
• drink as much fluid as possible. Minimum – one and a half liters per day. You can drink a glass in the morning warm water With lemon juice which prevents constipation during pregnancy;

Why is constipation generally dangerous during pregnancy?

Some people who regularly experience constipation Everyday life, do not always understand existing risk. So why is constipation dangerous during pregnancy and for whom: for the mother or for the child? In fact, they harm both. Therefore, they should not be taken lightly.

The fact is that feces, stagnating in the intestines, begin to be absorbed into the blood. As a result, the body becomes poisoned. Which, in turn, aggravates toxicosis, aggravates the chronicity, reduces immune status, who is not very tall anyway when carrying a child.

In addition, the woman constantly experiences discomfort. She cannot sleep peacefully, she is tormented by abdominal pain, she is unable to relax or even be distracted. Appetite disappears, irritability and general nervousness increase. Painful sensations in the anal area they also ruin life.

And do not forget that the body of the mother and the unborn baby are connected to each other. What happens to the body of one necessarily affects the other.

What about the fruit?

So, how does constipation during pregnancy affect the child, are they dangerous for him? Undoubtedly. Firstly, general deterioration The mother's condition cannot but lead to consequences for the baby. Secondly, some toxins, once in the blood, can penetrate to the fetus, even bypassing the placenta. Thirdly, pushing when trying to go to the toilet risks causing premature birth or miscarriage.

Drug treatment - medications for constipation during pregnancy

Let’s say prevention didn’t help, but the problem still happened. What to do, how to treat constipation during pregnancy in a way that is safe for the baby? First of all, no amateur performances. It is very easy to make a mistake, which can have serious consequences.

When carrying a child, for example, almost all laxatives are prohibited. They cause spasms and affect the muscles of the intestines and uterus, which can cause miscarriage. And some can also lead to bleeding, say, senna, which is often perceived as quite safe remedy due to its natural origin.

Of the ready-made laxatives, expectant mothers should not take: REGULAX, CHITOZAN-EVALAR, DOCTOR THEISS - SWEDISH BITTER. IN in rare cases under strict medical supervision, GUTTALAX or DULCOLAX (aka BISACODIL) is prescribed.

All compounds that normalize intestinal microflora are quite harmless. These are Bifidumbacterin, Laktiale, Duphalac. The herbal composition “Fitomucil” helps quite well. For some, glycerin suppositories are a real salvation. In short, there are plenty of options here. Taking the laxatives FORLAX and FORTRANS is not contraindicated; glycerin suppositories can be used.

Another thing is that everything needs to be selected strictly individually. Women suffering from chronic constipation are not prescribed medications like those who have such problems from time to time. And vice versa. There are other factors to take into account.

The preparations SENNALAX, GLAXENNA, TRISASEN, made on the basis of senna (aka Cassia aculifolia, or Alexandrian leaf), increase the tone of the muscle wall of the intestine. It should be used with caution, under medical supervision. Senna preparations should not be taken for a long time: it is addictive, which requires increasing the dose. In addition, senna may cause allergic reaction and deposition of melanin in the cells of the intestinal mucosa. Senna should not be taken for spastic forms of constipation, in which intestinal tone is already increased.

Traditional medicine in the fight against constipation

The same applies to many folk recipes. Women periodically drink teas for weight loss because they have a relaxing effect. But they often contain laxatives. Which is dangerous for the above reasons. Therefore, there is no point in experimenting.

• Decoction of oatmeal, which are mixed with finely chopped beets and prunes;
• Raisins and dried apricots. 100 grams of each ingredient should be crushed and mixed with honey. Take two teaspoons at night;
• Herbal-based sedatives. They will help if constipation is accompanied by cramps.
• Warm water with honey. It softens the intestines, acts gently and delicately, but the effect should only be expected after a few hours.

It should be noted that honey, fresh carrots and their juice, melon, apricots, red apples, red currants have an increased allergenic potential, so they can be consumed no more than 1-2 times a week. Women with allergies should exclude these foods from their diet.

We pay attention to the most effective traditional methods that will help you go to the toilet if you are constipated during pregnancy

Recipe No. 1:

• rinse thoroughly 100 gr. prunes;
• fill it with boiling water (1 l);
• put on low heat;
• the broth should boil for 1 hour;
• after that, remove it from the heat and let it cool under the lid;
• Drink 1 glass of the decoction between meals, the last glass should be drunk before going to bed.

Recipe No. 2:

• boil 1 medium-sized beet;
• Grind it using a grater;
• add vegetable or olive oil to the beets;
• eat the dish on an empty stomach;
• In addition, you can make a salad based on beets, unsweetened yogurt and pickled cucumber.

Recipe No. 3:

• mix anise, rose hips, nettle leaves, chamomile, valerian roots (1 tablespoon of each ingredient) in a dry container;
• pour boiling water (500 ml) into the mixture;
• place the container in a water bath for 15 minutes;
• After the broth has cooled, strain it;
• drink half a glass 3 times a day after meals.

In addition to going to the toilet, if a pregnant woman has constipation, tasty and healthy salads will help.

Green salad

Cooking method:

• cut the cucumber;
• add chopped dill or parsley to it;
• season the salad with sour cream.

If foods contain a lot of fiber, they can even be eaten fresh.

Sweet vegetable salad

Cooking method:

• grind bell pepper, tomatoes and carrots;
• fill them up olive oil.

Salad with apple and carrots

Cooking method:

• Grind both of these medium-sized ingredients using a grater;
• mix them thoroughly;
• by using sunflower oil season the dish;
• This salad will help you go to the toilet as quickly as possible.

Cabbage salad

Cooking method:

• take one quarter of a small head of cabbage;
• cut it and mash it with your hands;
• finely chop the beets and carrots;
• add them to the cabbage;
• season the ingredients with olive oil and stir.

Vegetable oil helps relieve constipation during pregnancy. This product softens stool, treats the inner walls of the intestines and improves the sliding of food debris, as a result of which a woman can go to the toilet faster. In addition, for the process of defecation you will not have to strain your muscles much.

Oil will help you go to the toilet quickly

However, not every oil can be used if you have constipation during pregnancy. For example, castor oil should not be used because it causes rhythmic contractions of smooth muscle in muscles throughout the body. It is best to pay attention to the following types of oils:

• olive;
• sunflower;
• sea ​​buckthorn;
• pumpkin

It does not matter which oil was chosen by a woman to solve the problem of constipation. You need to take it in the morning, 1 tablespoon. It is recommended to have breakfast 1 hour after consuming the oil. Usually this time is enough for this product to evenly lubricate the digestive tract and make it easier for the intestines to rid themselves of digested food.

Exercises for constipation

In combination with a diet, physical exercise will help solve the problem of constipation; it is enough to spend 20-30 minutes doing exercises every day, and it is better to do it several times during the day. Consult your doctor about your exercise choices, as some exercises may not be appropriate for you based on your health.

smooth squats. In the later stages, it is better to hold on to a chair to reduce the load on the body;

exercises from a lying position - “bicycle” and “scissors”;

tension and relaxation of the sphincter;

pelvic lifts from a supine position.

Each exercise must be performed at least 10 times.

The situation with constipation by trimester

How does the problem change as pregnancy progresses? This can be clearly seen in the table.

Thus, as you can see, constipation during late pregnancy becomes very big problem. And at this time it is most difficult to solve. That's why doctors urge you to be extremely careful with what you eat in the third trimester.

What to eat for constipation during pregnancy?

Very often people are interested in what they need to eat to avoid constipation. The best option– more fiber, beets in any form. Antonovka apples help many people. Don’t forget about kefir, enriched with beneficial bacteria, and natural yoghurts, they really make it easier.

Some women find it helpful to eat 2 raw eggs or 10 quail eggs on an empty stomach in the morning. The latter are even preferable because they are guaranteed to be safer; microorganisms are not transmitted to humans through them.

Coarse bread is useful, preferably black. Sprouted wheat grains have a pretty good effect. Some people advise eating 1-2 kiwis in the morning; according to reviews, this helps to establish normal bowel movements.

But white bread, meat and flour in general should not dominate the menu. Balance is extremely important. The diet can be developed with a nutritionist. It is worth abandoning what causes gas formation, or reducing such products to a minimum.

There was blood

What to do if constipation occurs during pregnancy with blood, painful sensations, prolapse of part of the intestine? This is exactly how hemorrhoids manifest themselves. A very unpleasant disease that can worsen during pregnancy due to large quantity provoking factors.

In this case, you need to try to review your diet again, and as meticulously as possible. It is advisable to study each product that gets there for exactly how it affects the functioning of the intestines. In general, you need to see a doctor, because doing something on your own can seriously harm you.