Why do we get constipated during pregnancy?
Managing Constipation in Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief
Constipation is a common concern during pregnancy that can cause discomfort and stress. While it’s often a normal part of the journey to motherhood, understanding its causes, symptoms, and ways to manage it can significantly improve your well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore what constipation is, its common triggers during pregnancy, how to relieve it, and how osteopathic treatment can provide effective support.
What Is Constipation in Pregnancy?
Constipation refers to infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often characterized by hard, dry stools and the sensation of incomplete evacuation. While bowel movement frequency can vary from person to person, going less than three times per week is typically considered constipation.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and physical adjustments in your body make constipation a frequent issue for many mums-to-be.
Causes of Constipation in Pregnancy
Several factors contribute to constipation during pregnancy:
Hormonal Changes: Increased progesterone levels relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, slowing down bowel movements.
Pressure from the Growing Uterus: As your baby grows, the uterus puts pressure on the intestines, which can slow down digestion and hinder the natural movement of stools.
Iron Supplements: Many pregnant women take iron supplements, which can cause or worsen constipation.
Dehydration: Increased fluid needs during pregnancy and reduced water intake can lead to dehydration, making stools harder to pass.
Reduced Physical Activity: Pregnancy fatigue or discomfort may result in less activity, which can slow down bowel movements.
Symptoms of Constipation in Pregnancy
Common symptoms of constipation during pregnancy include:
Infrequent bowel movements.
Hard, dry, or lumpy stools.
Straining during bowel movements.
A feeling of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement.
Bloating or abdominal discomfort.
Ways to Self-Relieve Constipation in Pregnancy
If you’re experiencing constipation during pregnancy, there are several strategies to find relief:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help soften stools and keep digestion moving smoothly. Aim for 8-10 glasses daily.
Increase Fiber Intake: Incorporate high-fiber foods into your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Exercise Regularly: Engage in gentle physical activity, like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, to stimulate bowel movements.
Establish a Routine: Set aside time each day for a bowel movement, preferably after meals when your digestive system is active.
Consider Natural Remedies: Foods like prunes, kiwi, or flaxseeds can act as natural laxatives.
Adjust Your Position: Using a footstool while sitting on the toilet can help align your body for easier bowel movements.
Avoid Straining: Be patient and avoid excessive straining to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If symptoms persist, ask your provider about safe stool softeners or alternatives to your current iron supplements.
How Osteopathic Treatment Can Help Constipation in Pregnancy
Osteopathic treatment provides a holistic, non-invasive approach to managing constipation in pregnancy. It focuses on improving the body’s natural functions through gentle manipulative techniques, offering a safe and effective way to address discomfort.
Enhancing Mobility in the Pelvis and Abdomen:
An osteopath works to release tension and improve mobility in the pelvic and abdominal regions. By addressing restrictions in these areas, osteopathic treatment can enhance the movement of the digestive organs, allowing for better stool passage.Improving Circulation:
Through gentle manipulations, an osteopath can promote better blood flow and lymphatic drainage in the abdomen, reducing bloating and improving digestive efficiency.Addressing Postural Changes:
Pregnancy alters your posture, often leading to increased strain on the lower back and pelvis. Osteopathic care realigns the body, reducing stress on the intestines and creating more space for optimal digestive function.Stimulating the Nervous System:
Techniques to release tension in the spine can positively impact the nervous system, which plays a key role in regulating digestion. An osteopath can ensure the nervous system pathways supporting gut motility are functioning effectively.Tailored Advice for Pregnancy:
Beyond hands-on care, osteopaths provide personalized advice on posture, breathing techniques, and gentle exercises to further support digestion and relieve constipation during pregnancy.
Osteopathic care is entirely safe and gentle for pregnant women. By addressing the root causes of constipation, it provides lasting relief while improving overall comfort during pregnancy. Osteopathic treatment for constipation during pregnancy offers a gentle and holistic approach to alleviate discomfort and promote digestive health. Through targeted manipulation techniques, osteopaths focus on improving the mobility and function of the digestive organs, including the intestines and surrounding muscles. By releasing tension and restoring balance to the musculoskeletal system, osteopathic treatment can help alleviate restrictions in the abdomen, allowing for smoother bowel movements. Additionally, osteopaths may provide dietary and lifestyle recommendations to support regularity and prevent constipation. With a focus on addressing the underlying causes of constipation and promoting overall well-being, osteopathic treatment offers expectant mothers a safe and effective option for managing this common pregnancy symptom.
When to Seek Professional Help
If constipation becomes severe, is accompanied by abdominal pain, or persists despite trying self-relief measures, consult a healthcare provider for further assessment and care.
Feel Supported Through Your Pregnancy
At Sarah Boughtwood Osteopath, we specialize in providing personalized, pregnancy-focused osteopathic care. With years of experience, Sarah helps mums-to-be manage pregnancy-related discomforts like constipation, ensuring you feel supported throughout this transformative journey.
