Indigestion can not only cause diarrhea but also constipation, especially in pregnant womenpregnant lady. Constipation in pregnant women is quite common, moms. Here’s how to deal with constipation in pregnant women!
Read also: When can you start feeling the baby’s movements?
What are the causes of constipation in pregnant women
Constipation in pregnant women usually occurs when progesterone levels rise, which is around two to three months into the pregnancy. This constipation can worsen as pregnancy progresses.
Just like other symptoms of pregnancy, the leading cause of constipation in pregnant women is pregnancy hormones. Progesterone relaxes the muscles of the digestive organs, thus making food stay longer digestive tract.
On the positive side, as food lasts longer, the body has more time to absorb nutrients in the blood vessels and transfer them to the fetus in the womb. On the negative side, moms are constipated. Growing pregnancy also causes the digestive tract to narrow, thus contributing to constipation.
Read also: Come on, do these 5 tips for a healthy diet for pregnant women with obesity
How to overcome constipation in pregnant women
You don’t have to linger over the discomfort caused by constipation. There are several ways to deal with constipation in pregnant women that can be done:
Consumption of fiber
Foods rich in fiber help facilitate the digestive process. The consumption of fiber is around 25-35 grams per day. Moms can eat cereal or wholemeal bread, edamame, fruit and vegetables.
As a tip, choose green leafy vegetables and kiwis. Avoid refined grain foods, such as white bread. Moms also consume fiber in supplement form. But be sure to check with your doctor first on the matter and also ask for advice on good fiber supplements for pregnant women.
Drink white water
Drinking enough water every day also eases the digestive system and makes the consistency of the stool not hard, making it easier to pass. Moms also drink lemon water to stimulate the digestive tract. Try asking your doctor for the recommended amount of fluid intake in a day.
Don’t overeat in one meal
Consuming large portions of food can interfere with the digestive tract. Try to eat food in small portions but six times a day.
Go to the bathroom when it’s time
Holding a bowel movement can make constipation worse. So, try going to the bathroom if your body gives a signal.
Consumption of probiotics
The probiotic acidophilus in yogurt contains active good bacteria that can help stimulate the bacteria in the gut to better digest food. Try asking your doctor for advice on probiotics that are good for pregnant women to consume.
Do as much as possible regular exercise every day because it can also ease the digestive tract. Just 10 minutes of walking can improve digestion. Try asking your doctor for advice on safe exercise for moms.
Read also: 4 ways babies can be smart from the womb!
Source:
What to expect. Constipation during pregnancy. October 2022.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Problems of the digestive systemAugust 2022. | Show in the article
Mayo Clinic, Is It Safe To Take Stool Softeners To Treat Constipation In Pregnancy?May 2022. | Show in the article
National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, Treating constipation during pregnancyAugust 2012. | Show in the article
What to expect when you expect5th edition, Heidi Murkoff.
WhatToExpect.com, Your guide to pregnancy hormonesJanuary 2021.
