If you're pregnant you may try and treat constipation without taking a medicine. You can try eating more fibre and drinking plenty of fluids. It may also help to do gentle exercise. If diet and lifestyle changes do not work, your doctor or midwife may recommend a laxative, such as
lactulose or Fybogel. These laxatives are quite commonly used during pregnancy. Senna is occasionally used in pregnancy, and there is no evidence that it causes harm. However, it's better to try other types of laxative first because there is more information to say that they're safe. If your doctor or midwife says your baby is healthy you can take senna while you are breastfeeding. Only tiny amounts pass into breast milk which are unlikely to cause any side effects in your baby. Although you could try treating constipation without taking a laxative, or taking a different laxative such as lactulose or
Fybogel, it's important that you take the medicine that works for you. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist who will help you decide what's best for you. If your baby is not feeding as well as usual, or has diarrhoea, then talk to your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor. There's no evidence to
suggest that taking senna reduces fertility in either men or women. For more information about how senna and treating constipation can affect you and your baby during pregnancy, visit the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website. Page last reviewed: 1 February 2022 Constipation is a very common symptom that many women experience during pregnancy. Some women have constipation at an early stage of their pregnancy, while it does not affect other women until much later on. In this article, we explain why constipation is common in pregnancy and discuss safe treatments and home remedies that women can use to relieve the discomfort. The cause of constipation during pregnancy depends on the stage at which it occurs. Possible causes include:
In addition to infrequent bowel movements, constipation can cause bloating, stomach discomfort, and hard, dry stools that are painful to pass. It can also result in a feeling that not all the stool has passed. Constipation can be particularly uncomfortable during pregnancy. During pregnancy, women can often relieve constipation using gentle, safe home remedies:
If the home remedies above do not work, it may be time to discuss other options with a doctor. For women taking prenatal vitamins that are high in iron, doctors may recommend trying a vitamin that contains less iron. The primary medical treatment for constipation in pregnancy is a medication called a laxative, which makes it easier and more comfortable to go to the bathroom. It is generally safe to use gentle laxatives, but it is best to avoid stimulant laxatives because they can induce uterine contractions. Although many laxatives are available over the counter, it is important to check with a doctor which one is safe to use. Limited information is available about using some of these medications during pregnancy. Women can usually safely use the following types of laxative during pregnancy: Bulk-forming agentsBulk-forming agents mimic fiber by adding material to the stool and helping it absorb more water. By doing this, they make the stool larger, softer, and easier to pass. These types of laxative can cause some cramping or discomfort, so people should start with the lowest dosage and ensure that they drink lots of water. Examples of bulk-forming agents include psyllium, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil. Stool softenersStool softeners add water to the stool to help make it softer and more comfortable to pass. The stool softener that doctors most commonly recommend to pregnant women is docusate (Colace). Lubricant laxativesLubricant laxatives add a slippery coating to either the stool or the inside of the intestinal tract to aid the passage of stool out of the body. Glycerin suppositories are one type of lubricant laxative. It is essential to always speak to a healthcare professional before using suppositories, especially when pregnant. Osmotic laxativesBy drawing more water into the intestines, these laxatives help soften the stool. They also allow the bowel to contract more to move the stool along. These types of laxative can also cause cramping and bloating in the abdomen. Examples of osmotic laxatives include polyethylene glycol and magnesium hydroxide. In most cases, constipation in pregnancy is short-lived and resolves with no or minimal treatment. In rare cases, however, prolonged constipation can cause fecal impaction, which may need removal by a doctor. Continued use of certain types of laxative can cause the bowel to “forget” how to push stool through the intestines. These drugs can also cause electrolyte or fluid imbalances in some people. Such issues usually affect people who have other health problems, such as diabetes or kidney disease. It is best to speak to a doctor about the types of laxative to take and how often to take them. It is vital that pregnant women speak with their doctor before taking any medication, including laxatives or other constipation remedies. Seeing a doctor is also advisable if any additional symptoms occur, including:
As always, mention any other symptoms or concerns to the doctor for more specific information and advice. What type of laxatives should be avoided during pregnancy?Bulk-forming laxatives and stool softeners are considered safe and effective treatment options. Stimulant laxatives should be used with caution while pregnant. Adequate fiber intake through your diet can also help with constipation during pregnancy.
Can I take Dulcolax if pregnant?DulcoSoft Oral Solution and Powder for Oral Solution are suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women, medical devices can affect the unborn baby, always talk to your doctor before taking any medicine in pregnancy. Relief is on the way. Check out the best foods (and beverages) to help keep your system on track.
|