What causes constipation during pregnancy?.

Constipation is a common problem for pregnant women, because the hormone progesterone is able to slow the progress of food through the intestines.

According to different data, from 11% to 38% of pregnant women suffer from constipation.

During pregnancy, you have an increased chance of constipation if you have previously been prone to constipation, suffer from irritable bowel syndrome or toxicosis of pregnant women, because of which you are forced to change the diet.

Anemia can also be associated with constipation. Some iron-based tablets that are prescribed for the treatment of anemia can further exacerbate the problem.

If you do not exercise enough, the likelihood of constipation increases. As the fetus grows, pressure on the pelvic region increases, and constipation becomes more likely.

If you have severe constipation and you have to strain hard, remember - there is a risk of hemorrhoids.

How can I prevent constipation during pregnancy?.

Constipation usually does not lead to any serious consequences, but it is very uncomfortable, and in some cases, hemorrhoids are possible. During pregnancy, the best treatment for constipation is its timely prevention.

British experts recommend to diversify their diet with whole grains, wholemeal bread, fruits and vegetables. These foods will give your gut enough fiber.

Make sure you get at least 1.5 liters of water every day!.

Try to avoid drinks that have a diuretic effect, such as tea, coffee, cola and alcohol. Last at pregnancy in general it is inadmissible. Drinks with diuretic action instead of normal hydration can aggravate constipation.

Do not rely on the fact that some bran will help you avoid constipation. If only you can not significantly increase fluid intake. Without additional liquid bran will not have the necessary action. And large doses of bran are even harmful - they interfere with the body to absorb certain nutrients from food.

Physical activity and exercise are a prerequisite for the prevention of constipation at any age and condition. Walking, swimming, moderate exercise on a stationary bike, classes in groups for pregnant women - this is what you need. Some yoga postures can be practiced to avoid constipation. Pilates is also suitable.

Tai-chi or ki-gong, Chinese techniques of physical and meditative exercises, can support physical and emotional health. These techniques are good for balance and mobility, and can help with the treatment and prevention of constipation. However, they are associated with an excessive load on the joints, so before starting such activities, it is advisable to talk with a doctor.

How can you relieve constipation during pregnancy?.

To begin with, you need to do what is listed above, and not go to laxatives.

Use at least 1.5 liters (2.6 pints) of water a day and start your day with a cup of warm water with a slice of lemon before eating or drinking anything else. Each meal starts with a salad of fresh vegetables or fruits, and try to give preference to foods high in fiber.

Recommended products:.

• Dried fruits, including plums and apricots.

• Fresh vegetables: celery, watercress, artichoke, spinach.

• Fresh fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, mandarins and black currants.

• Whole grains, wholemeal bread or bread with bran, legumes Herbal products.

Psillium (seeds of isfagula) is a product made from plantain of oval. Especially useful psyllium in irritable bowel syndrome and constipation. Scientific studies did not reveal the risk of congenital malformations in children when using psyllium seeds during pregnancy. Experts of the Canadian Family Doctor claim that existing data allow us to prescribe a psyllium even for a long period.

Psyllium contains mucus, which facilitates the evacuation of intestinal contents. At reception of this agent it is necessary to drink at least 8 glasses of water in day. If you are taking any medications for the heart, do not use psillium without first consulting a doctor. In addition, such drugs can cause bloating and colic if you do not drink enough water.

Flax seeds are also rich in mucous substances, and are an excellent alternative to psyllium. But every spoonful of seeds should be washed down with a large glass of water. This product can be added to your breakfast: cereals, salads, yogurt. Keep in mind that a large number of flax seeds can cause diarrhea, and sometimes allergic reactions.

Senna herb (cassia) refers to the means that can be conditionally applied to pregnant women with constipation. An American case-control study that included 506 pregnant women (260 senna in the 1st trimester) did not reveal an increased risk of congenital abnormalities in children. It is recommended to use with caution because of the limited amount of data.

Those who do not want to take herbs or psyllium seeds with dubious gastronomic properties may like the ordinary plum, which in sufficient quantities normalizes the stool.

Medications.

Almost every pregnant woman with constipation can alleviate her condition with the help of three things: fluid, fiber and exercise. If dietary measures, exercises, or traditional herbal remedies do not help, you can turn to medicines.

Most modern laxatives are not absorbed or slightly absorbed into the systemic circulation, suggesting a minimal effect on the fetus.

What drugs can be used for pregnant women, and how safe are they?.

Osmotic laxatives (lactulose) are drugs that are mostly not absorbed in the body. Lactulose is considered safe in pregnancy. Suitable for the treatment of chronic constipation. When using lactulose, bloating is possible.

Means that soften fecal masses (docusate sodium or calcium). Such drugs are not associated with side effects during pregnancy, and are considered sufficiently safe. In the literature, one case of prolonged use of sodium docusate by a mother, which caused symptomatic hypomagnesemia (decreased magnesium levels) in a newborn.

Stimulant laxatives (bisacodyl, senadexin). Bisacodyl has a low bioavailability. Studies in animals have not revealed the negative effects of bisacodiol on the fetus, even in large doses. However, data on use in humans are limited.

In America, the FDA recommends taking bisacodyl only when it is absolutely necessary. Hayes (Senade, Senadexin) are not associated with negative consequences for the fetus, but the data are also limited.

American experts insist: with constipation in pregnant women should start with the correction of diet, increase fluid intake and exercise! Laxatives are a reserve option that should be used as a last resort. But in general, if it comes to medicines, it is safer to use lactulose.

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