True enough, being pregnant is a very blissful event. Aside from the feeling of awe and amazement of carrying a life inside the womb, they get to feel the joy and excitement whenever they feel their baby moving inside them.
Expectant women can experience wonderful changes such as a natural glowing and clearer skin, softer hair and bigger mammary glands. Then again, along with these amazing changes, expectant women can go through nesting instincts, mood swings, hemorrhoids and even constipation.
Expecting women are predisposed to constipation. Although, the symptoms are not that deadly, they can be very annoying. Almost 80 percent of women have complaints toward the severe effects of constipation.
What Causes Pregnancy Constipation
Increase Secretion Of Female Hormone Called Progesterone
During pregnancy, the body produces more progesterone. This female hormone is liable for the normal development of the fetus and ensures that the placenta is working properly.
On the other hand, this hormone also relaxes the body's intestinal muscles. Consequently, slowing the processes of the digestive system. The slowing down of the digestive process makes pregnant mothers more inclined to constipation.
Body Weight Increase
As the fetus develops inside the mother's womb, it also put extreme pressure in the abdominal area including the intestines. This pressure makes it hard for the intestine to perform its natural function.
Also, aside from the pressure from the developing fetus, the mother's own body weight can also cause constipation. Inactivity can contribute to the advancement of constipation.
Pregnancy Vitamins And Supplements
Vitamins and pregnancy supplements support the normal growth of the fetus inside the womb. Supplements like iron and calcium given to pregnant women can also cause constipation.
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Constipation?
Generally, pregnant women who suffer from constipation can experience pain during defecation, stomach ache and passing of hard formed stool.
Treatment Of Constipation
If pregnant, be cautious when taking medications. It is safer to use home remedies as they are harmless and efficient. Following are some of them.
Increase Fiber Consumption Fibers are effective in maintaining the natural function of the digestive region. It absorbs liquid to prevent drying out of stools. Dried apricots, prunes and apples are very high in fiber content.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Fiber will become useless without correct hydration of the intestine. In verity, without enough water, it can worsen constipation, making it more challenging to move out bowels. Fiber acts as a sweep and water as the power flush of the body. Also, water prevents the feces to dry out making it easier for the body to eliminate them. Also, Metamucil, a fiber based laxative is proven safe and efficient for pregnant women to take.
Small Frequent Meals
Eating large meals should be avoided. As an alternative, eat small frequent meals throughout the day. This can assist to productively pass out stools. Also, it can prevent other discomforts of pregnancy like dyspepsia.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercises like calisthenics, walking and jogging accelerates the heart rate and stimulates the natural contraction of the intestinal muscles.
Surely, being pregnant is a fascinating experience. Then again, there are changes that expecting women must go through and one of them is constipation. Although, this condition is not grave, it can cause discomfort to the suffers. Try these simple household remedies and for sure, you'll never have to go through the disturbing symptoms of constipation ever again.