Constipation During Pregnancy and What Can Help

If you are going less often than usual or finding it harder to go, you are in good company. In one study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology, about one in four participants experienced constipation in the first or second trimester. Rising progesterone levels can slow digestion, and the study also found a link between iron supplements and constipation. Read the study on PubMed.

A few everyday habits can help.

• Add fiber gradually. Try oatmeal with berries, lentils in soup or a few prunes (or Prunies!) with breakfast. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends aiming for about 25 grams of fiber a day during pregnancy. A Cochrane review found that adding a fiber supplement may help people have more frequent bowel movements during pregnancy, though the evidence came from a small trial. Read ACOG’s fiber guidance and the Cochrane review.

• Drink water throughout the day. This is especially helpful as you add more fiber.

• Take a walk if your prenatal care team has cleared you for exercise. Regular movement can help ease constipation. Read ACOG’s guidance on exercise during pregnancy.

If constipation keeps bothering you, bring it up with your OB or midwife. They can help you figure out whether iron might be contributing and talk through your options before you change your supplements or try a laxative. Read the UK Teratology Information Service’s treatment guidance.

Photo by Suhyeon Choi on Unsplash