How to cope with constipation during pregnancy. Constipation in pregnant women: what to do? Treatment of constipation during pregnancy in the early and late stages

Hello! First of all, you need to consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist who is monitoring your spouse during pregnancy. The causes of pain in the lower abdomen can be very different. It is important to understand what causes these pains. Is constipation the cause? Although constipation during pregnancy is quite common. Constipation is understood as a slow, difficult or systematically incomplete bowel movement. Constipation is considered to be bowel movement less than 3 times a week. The characteristic symptoms of this condition are rare, hard and scanty stools. The consistency of stool is determined by the amount of water in it. In solid feces its amount does not exceed 40%, in normal feces - 70%, and in liquid feces - 95%. An objective criterion for constipation is a decrease in stool weight to 35 g per day or less. The clinical picture may be complemented by difficulty defecating, a feeling of incomplete bowel movement and abdominal discomfort. The reason for stool retention in the first trimester of pregnancy (up to 12 weeks) is the increased production of the so-called main pregnancy hormone, which has a relaxing effect not only on the muscles of the uterus, but also on other smooth muscle organs: urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, and, accordingly, lowering motor activity intestines. In late pregnancy, stool retention can result from compression of the colon by an enlarged uterus. Today, constipation is one of the most common gastroenterological problems in pregnant women. Its frequency, according to various authors, ranges from 17 to 50%. Most often, constipation occurs between 17 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. The reasons for the development of constipation during pregnancy are: 1. An increase in the level of progesterone and its metabolites, which activate the inhibitory gastrointestinal hormone and inhibit (suppress) substances that stimulate peristalsis. 2. Decrease in motilin level during the period from 16 to 36 weeks of pregnancy (returns to normal a week after birth). Motilin is a hormone produced by cells of the mucous membrane, mainly of the duodenum and jejunum, which stimulates gastrointestinal motility. 3. Other possible mechanisms of constipation during pregnancy are based on the unity of the blood supply system and neurohumoral regulation of the uterus and colon. However, it is difficult to single out any one reason that leads to constipation during pregnancy. As a rule, a combination of various factors is at work here. The causes of constipation in pregnant women can also be a change in the quality of food, the use of various drugs(progesterone, tocolytics - drugs that relieve increased tone uterus). Sometimes a woman is forced to lie down for a long time, and for normal intestinal motor function at least minimal physical activity is needed. The basic principles of prevention and treatment are: dietary recommendations; recommendations for changing the motor mode; prescription of laxatives. Treatment of constipation, especially constipation during pregnancy, begins with non-drug measures. These primarily include diet. Introducing foods with high content ballast substances. In terms of nutritional properties, wheat bran is the most acceptable for consumption. Rye bread is valuable for preventing constipation during pregnancy, preferably yesterday's bread, a little stale. You need to eat more vegetables and fruits, as they contain a lot of fiber. It is not absorbed by our body, but forms feces, which will be easier and faster to move through the colon. Prunes, dried apricots, kefir, and other fermented milk products also help reduce the symptoms of constipation. The regime of physical activity is reviewed, the types of which are determined by the doctor. And only if all of the above measures are not enough, laxatives are used, which are indicated for constipation during pregnancy. There is a group of expectant mothers who enter pregnancy already experiencing constipation. This apparently applies to your wife as well. Women who suffer from constipation outside of pregnancy and abuse certain medications for this reason create a lifestyle for themselves with the problem of constipation. During pregnancy, it is necessary to adjust this style by changing or adding medications that will not affect the course of pregnancy. The choice of a suitable laxative drug should in no case be made by the patient herself - self-medication with laxative drugs during pregnancy is especially undesirable. It is also necessary to take into account various side effects, for example, the teratogenic (causing developmental deformities) effect of senna preparations (senade,) is known. By the way, Fitolax, which your wife uses, is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Phytolax, along with other components, also includes hay leaf. The action of some laxatives is based on stimulating the contraction of smooth muscles (for example), which is not indicated at all during pregnancy, as it increases the threat of miscarriage. There are medications that require taking large quantity fluids, which is also undesirable, as the load on the kidneys increases. Thus, it becomes obvious that the range of laxatives that can be used during pregnancy is significantly narrowed, since they must be safe for the fetus, for the woman and for normal course pregnancy. Currently, one of the most widely used laxatives is the isosmotic laxative drug. The drug is not absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract, is not metabolized and is not destroyed by intestinal bacteria. No suction guarantees complete absence toxic effects. The drug has the ability to retain water, which dilutes feces and facilitates their evacuation, having an indirect effect on peristalsis, without causing an irritating effect. The effect of the drug develops 24-48 hours after administration. It has now been proven that Transipeg does not penetrate the feto-placental barrier and has no teratogenic or toxic effects. The drug does not have negative impact on myometrial tone. Transipeg is the only laxative that maintains the electrolyte balance of the body. It contains a special electrolyte mixture: (146 mg), sodium sulfate (568 mg), sodium bicarbonate (168 mg), potassium chloride (75 mg). As a result of research by domestic and foreign scientists, it has been established that the drug Transipeg is highly effective in the treatment of constipation: it is the only laxative drug that can prevent the loss of electrolytes even with long-term therapy; easy to use (single daily dose, only 100 ml of water); Its complete safety during pregnancy has been clinically proven. The drug Defenorm can be used during pregnancy and lactation. This is a herbal preparation. It mechanically irritates the intestinal receptors with swollen (after contact with liquid) hydrophilic mucus-containing fibers. The drug regulates intestinal activity, preventing thickening of intestinal contents and facilitating its passage. Defenorm normalizes intestinal function without being a classic laxative (it is effective not only for constipation, but also for functional diarrhea), and does not have an irritating effect. The laxative effect occurs 6–10 hours after taking the drug. Taking Defenorm helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood as a result of increased binding of salts by the components of the drug bile acids in the intestines. It is not absorbed and is not addictive. During treatment with Defenorm, you should drink enough fluid. Contraindications to the use of the drug: hypersensitivity to plantain or other components of the drug, intestinal obstruction or the threat of its development, organic narrowing of the digestive tract, water-electrolyte imbalance, severe diabetes, children under 12 years of age (due to limited experience with use). But before taking any action, be sure to consult with your spouse’s doctor. It's simply necessary. All the best!

Most women complain of constipation during pregnancy. This problem can occur at any time and requires special attention. You won't be able to get rid of it by sitting in the toilet for a long time. And straining is extremely undesirable. Constipation cannot be ignored either - hardening of stool can lead to inflammation and cracks in the rectum.

Constipation is not a disease, but only a symptom that accompanies pathological conditions or functional disorders. There are certain criteria that allow one to classify a type of bowel movement as constipation.

If the intestines are emptied less than three times a week, and the volume of stool is about 35 g or less, then this condition is called constipation. It is also characterized by a water content in feces of less than 70% and passage of the food bolus through the digestive tract for five days or more. But constipation can also be considered a change in the individual rhythm and number of bowel movements.

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

Most often, constipation occurs in the 2-3 trimesters of pregnancy. But also on early stages this condition can cause problems. Especially if before conception the woman had episodes of bowel dysfunction.

Early

After conception, hormonal changes occur in a woman’s body. Fetal tissue secretes the hormone hCG, which stimulates activity corpus luteum ovaries. Therefore, a woman’s progesterone concentration increases rapidly. This hormone should prepare the uterus to accept the embryo, and the entire body should be reorganized into a mode of preserving the fetus. Progesterone can act on the smooth muscles of the uterus and reduce its contractility.

But there is also a side effect - at the same time as the uterus, the intestinal muscles react to this. Therefore, peristalsis slows down, and feces take longer to reach their final destination. Along the way, additional absorption of water occurs - the feces become dry, hard and fragmented. It accumulates in the ampulla of the rectum for a long time, and during defecation it can injure the thin mucous membrane.

But hormones are not the only cause of constipation in the 1st trimester. If a woman has a low hemoglobin level upon registration, she is prescribed iron supplements to treat anemia. A side effect of taking them is staining the stool black and constipation. Calcium preparations, which are also often used in pregnant women, have a similar effect.

Constipation in early pregnancy may be a consequence of lifestyle changes. Some women perceive this condition as a disease, so they reduce physical activity and spend more time in bed. For some, this is a necessary measure: if there is a threat of abortion in the early stages, women are literally put to bed and forbidden to get up. Decreasing physical activity reduces intestinal motility and increases the risk of constipation.

You should also remember to change your eating habits. Sometimes women stop eating enough vegetables and fruits, they want more sweets and baked goods. Reducing the amount of fluid consumed increases the chances of developing constipation.

At a later date

In the 2nd trimester and later influence progesterone does not affect the growing uterus. The need to take iron and calcium supplements cannot be ruled out. But additional provoking factors are added.

• Growing fruit. As the child grows and the uterus enlarges, the intestinal loops shift and the space in which they are located decreases. Therefore, peristalsis and the frequency of trips to the toilet are disrupted. Closer to birth, with a cephalic presentation, the fetus may cover the entrance to the pelvis with its head, which leads to constipation.
• Fear of swelling. Some women, out of fear of possible edema, decide to reduce the amount of fluid they consume. Its deficiency affects the digestion process. The food bolus is initially drier and progresses less well.
• Low physical activity. In the later stages, it is more difficult for a pregnant woman to move; her stomach gets in the way. A woman gets tired quickly, so she physically cannot be active enough. This further reduces peristalsis and promotes fecal stagnation.
• Diet disorders. An incorrectly formulated diet can contribute to disruption of the formation of feces. A decrease in the amount of foods rich in fiber, fluids, as well as an increase in junk food and coffee disrupt the digestion process and lead to constipation during late pregnancy.
• Fear of straining. The approaching moment of childbirth causes fear in some women when going to the toilet. They think that if they strain their abs, a child may suddenly be born. Therefore, when they have the urge to defecate, they try to endure it, if going to the toilet “for the most part” is not easy. This only worsens the condition and leads to dry stool. At the same time, whether it is possible to push depends on the woman’s initial condition. To those who have a threat premature birth or miscarriage, you should avoid increasing intra-abdominal pressure.

During pregnancy, the influence of psycho-emotional factors increases. Therefore, prolonged constipation can appear after stress, worry about your health and the condition of the child.

Kinds

Problems with defecation are accompanied by unpleasant sensations of varying intensity. From them you can understand what type of constipation worries a woman.

• Spastic. Intestinal peristalsis is disrupted, its walls contract chaotically. Therefore, with constipation, sharp, cramping pain, and the feces take on the appearance of sheep. Excessive spasticity occurs with episodes of exacerbation, between which the stool is normal.
• Atonic. It is characterized by a decrease in intestinal tone, so its contents move at a slow pace and are gradually dehydrated. During defecation, there is pain, and after it there is a feeling of incomplete emptying.

What do stool disorders lead to?

A single episode will not cause serious harm, but frequent constipation During pregnancy there is a risk of developing the following consequences:

• disturbance of intestinal microflora;
• appearance or exacerbation of hemorrhoids;
• inflammation in the intestines;
• deterioration of general condition (due to putrefactive processes);
• appearance of cracks anus;
• increased risk of miscarriage.

Danger for the child appears with constant constipation. A crowded intestine can affect the condition of the uterus and its tone. This reflexively increases contractility and leads to the threat of premature birth.

Medication solutions

What to do with constipation during pregnancy, if it recurs regularly, you need to find out from your doctor. Since the wrong choice of drugs, some folk remedies can harm and tone the uterus. Prohibited use the following drugs And medicinal plants:

• magnesium sulfate;
• Carlsbad salt;
• Castor oil;
• buckthorn bark;
• rhubarb;
• senna.

You should also not use products that soften stool by increasing the volume of water. These are flax seed, agar-agar, products based on cellulose and seaweed. They contribute to dehydration, which is especially dangerous in the last period.

Treatment of constipation during pregnancy is carried out with mild agents that do not have a systemic effect. The following medications are most often used at home.

• Glycerin suppositories. This is a local remedy based on distilled glycerin. Colorless translucent suppositories, when inserted into the rectum, soften feces and lubricate their surface, which facilitates excretion. “Glycerol” reflexively irritates the intestinal surface, which enhances motility and bowel movements. It is used one suppository in the morning 15 minutes after breakfast. But you can’t use it too often - it disrupts natural bowel movements and the functioning of the rectum.
• Microlax. This is a combination medicine for constipation, which contains three active ingredients. They displace bound water from stool, dilute the intestinal contents and increase fluid flow. The action develops quickly, within 5-15 minutes. It is enough to use 1 microenema per day. To do this, break off the tip of the package and squeeze out a drop of the substance to lubricate the tip. It is inserted to its full length, which is approximately 6 cm, and the contents are squeezed out.
• "Duphalac". This is an oral remedy for constipation during pregnancy, which is a lactulose syrup. The mechanism of action is based on the breakdown of lactulose by intestinal microflora into compounds that lower the pH in the intestine, increase osmotic pressure and volume of contents. Lactulose also acts as a prebiotic, enhancing the growth of lacto- and bifidobacteria, suppressing the proliferation of opportunistic flora. The daily dosage is selected individually depending on the effect. Usually 15-45 ml of solution or one to three sachets is sufficient. Later the dosage can be reduced. Flatulence and bloating may be a side effect, but this goes away on its own.

Pregnancy is very important period in a woman's life. A representative of the fair sex, having learned what she carries under her heart long-awaited child, experiences a lot of positive emotions. However, she may not realize what surprises she will encounter while she is carrying her child. When you can see your baby, those are the happiest moments. But, unfortunately, every woman has to deal with unpleasant surprises during 40 weeks. One of them is constipation during pregnancy. They not only deliver discomfort, but also dangerous for pregnant women.

Each person has a different frequency of bowel movements. Some people have bowel movements 2-3 times a day, while others have bowel movements every 2 days. This is considered normal. Many people suffer from constipation, but expectant mothers are much more likely to face this problem than others.

The main symptoms of constipation during pregnancy:

• a downward change in the frequency of bowel movements;
• small amount of feces;
• dryness and hardness of stool;
• the presence after defecation of a feeling of incomplete bowel movement.

A pregnant woman may exhibit all of these signs or only some of them.

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

Representatives fair half of humanity expecting a baby, the causes of constipation can be different. One of them - increased progesterone levels in organism. This hormone has a relaxing effect on the intestinal muscles (peristalsis is disrupted, hypotension occurs).

The cause of constipation during early pregnancy may be iron and calcium. These useful microelements are necessary for pregnant women. Doctors even sometimes specifically prescribe medications containing iron and calcium.

Pregnant women lead an insufficiently active lifestyle. Some people, if there is a threat of miscarriage, follow bed rest. Exactly low physical activity may cause constipation.

During pregnancy, the expectant mother must monitor her diet. Because of lack of fluid bowel movements may be slow and difficult.

Constipation during pregnancy can also occur due to diseases of the anal area. For example, an anal fissure or hemorrhoids can be the cause of this unpleasant phenomenon.

Pregnancy is not complete without stress. They arise due to physiological changes in the body, fear of childbirth, thoughts about upcoming sleepless nights and other worries. Experiences negatively affect the frequency of bowel movements.

What are the dangers of constipation during pregnancy?

Women who have never previously suffered from slow and difficult bowel movements may experience this during early pregnancy. Many of them experience constipation during late pregnancy. This unpleasant phenomenon does not go away without a trace. Constipation for expectant mother and her unborn child pose a particular danger.

Due to difficulties with bowel movements, harmful substances that are formed as a result of the breakdown of food are retained in a woman’s body. Being in the intestine, they are absorbed into the blood through its walls. This can have a negative impact on the mother and fetus.

Constipation can cause a lot of discomfort. A woman in this position may feel heaviness in her stomach and pain. All this can cause unwanted experiences and frustrations.

Many women are concerned about the question of whether it is possible to push with constipation during pregnancy. During the period of bearing a child attempts are not advisable. If a woman has to push lightly and rarely, this will not cause serious problems. Regular constipation is dangerous because tension in the abdominal muscles can lead to hemorrhoids or miscarriage.

Stagnation of contents in the intestines can cause complications. For example, proctosigmoiditis (inflammation of the rectum and sigmoid colon), secondary colitis, paraproctitis (inflammation of the peri-rectal tissue), anal fissure can occur due to prolonged constipation.

Products for constipation during pregnancy

Not every woman knows what to do for constipation during pregnancy. Food plays a huge role in their treatment. A pregnant woman should include in her diet foods that contain substances that promote bowel movements. You should also be aware of foods that can cause constipation.

Intestinal emptying is promoted by:

• raw vegetables and fruits;
• black bread;
• bread containing bran in significant quantities;
• dried fruits (especially prunes);
• buckwheat, oat, barley cereals;
• meat with a lot of connective tissue.

These products for constipation during pregnancy should be included in your menu.

Pregnant women who complain of constipation and bloating should limit their intake or completely eliminate fiber-rich foods from their diet.

Should be abandoned from dishes made from spinach, sorrel, cabbage, beans, which cause increased gas formation.

If possible, you should exclude from your diet some pureed dishes (especially semolina and rice porridge), substances with a viscous consistency (for example, slimy soups). Some expectant mothers do not know whether cocoa and strong black tea cause constipation during pregnancy, and drink these drinks. In fact, you should remove them from your menu, as they only hinder bowel movements.

Pregnant woman in You should drink 1.5-2 liters of liquid per day. It could be plain water, juices, dairy products. It should be borne in mind that this much liquid can be consumed if there are no contraindications: heart disease or edema.

Medicines for constipation during pregnancy

As you know, pregnant women are not advised to take medications, as they can adversely affect the fetus. Then how to treat constipation during pregnancy? Drugs should only be prescribed by the attending physician if there are serious indications for this. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate. Your actions can only harm yourself and your unborn baby.

Almost all pills for constipation are contraindicated during pregnancy. Substances included in most drugs irritate receptors in the colon. This helps to enhance its peristalsis. In pregnant women, medications can cause an increase in uterine tone and contraction, and this can result in a miscarriage.

Doctors may prescribe glycerin suppositories from constipation during pregnancy. They gently irritate the receptors of the rectum and do not affect uterine tone.

So using medicines unsafe during pregnancy. The drugs can cause miscarriage and disturbances in fetal development. Expectant mother dreaming of healthy child, should not take medications without a doctor's prescription. Only a specialist can determine whether treatment of constipation during pregnancy with drugs is necessary or whether it can be done without them

Folk remedies for constipation during pregnancy

A good and safe folk remedy for constipation - prune decoction. To prepare it, you need to take 100 g of washed dried fruits, 100 g of rolled oats and 100 g of beets. Mix all these ingredients, place them in a saucepan and pour 2 liters of water. Boil prunes, rolled oats and beets over low heat for an hour. After this, strain the broth and put it in the refrigerator. Before going to bed you should drink 1 glass.

Also helps with constipation during pregnancy prunes, dried apricots and raisins with honey. To prepare this mixture you will need dried fruits (100 g each) and 2 tbsp. l. honey Rinse prunes, dried apricots and raisins thoroughly and pass through a meat grinder. After this, add honey and mix thoroughly. This tool It is recommended to take 2 tsp before bedtime, washed down with warm water.

It is worth noting that some folk remedies for constipation during pregnancy prohibited(for example, senna leaves, rhubarb, buckthorn bark, joster fruits).

Preventing constipation during pregnancy

Pregnant women may not experience constipation if they follow certain preventive measures.

First of all, you should pay attention to your diet. The diet should include foods rich in fiber. It improves the digestion process. It is advisable that the daily menu include a liquid dish (for example, soup or borscht). Foods that cause constipation should be excluded from the diet.

Particular attention should be paid to the drinking regime. Many representatives of the fair sex are afraid to drink a lot of fluids because possible appearance swelling. This is completely wrong. A pregnant woman should drink enough water. Salty foods should be excluded from consumption. This is necessary so that salt does not retain water in the body.

Expectant mothers very often complain about digestive problems that arise under negative impact environmental factors. During pregnancy, hormonal disruptions occur in the body of a pregnant woman, the diet changes, the stomach shifts through an enlarged uterus, which ultimately leads to disruption of the normal process of defecation. Next, we’ll take a closer look at how to properly treat constipation during pregnancy.

Constipation can be diagnosed if there is no natural bowel movement for three days. Constipation should be treated to avoid intoxication of the entire body.

Symptoms of constipation during pregnancy

How to treat constipation during pregnancy? First of all, you need to establish the main cause of digestive problems in order to select the most effective methods treatment.

So, we can highlight following symptoms constipation:

• No bowel movements for two days.
• Compaction of feces.
• Pain during bowel movements.
• The presence of blood in the stool.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Decreased appetite and general weakness.
• Pain and discomfort in various parts of the abdomen.
• An increase in body temperature, which is a symptom of an inflammatory process in the intestines.

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

Constipation during pregnancy occurs due to the following reasons:

• In the early stages of pregnancy, pregnant women suffer from toxicosis, which is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Ultimately, dehydration occurs, which leads to hardening of the stool.
• Drugs with a high content of calcium and iron, which are prescribed to pregnant women, lead to hardening of the stool.
• Because of excess weight Most pregnant women lead a sedentary lifestyle, which leads to the suspension of the natural process of bowel movements.
• During pregnancy, women quite often change their usual diet and combine incompatible foods that can cause digestive disorders.
• Due to the possibility of edema, most pregnant women reduce the amount of fluid they drink, which leads to hardening of the stool.
• Every day the size of the uterus increases in size and begins to put pressure on the intestinal system. This all leads to stagnation in the intestines.
• During pregnancy, women experience severe stress and nervous shock, which negatively affects the digestive process.

What are the dangers of constipation during pregnancy?

It is imperative to treat constipation at 40 weeks of pregnancy to avoid subsequent unpleasant symptoms:

• The breakdown products that are in the intestines begin to gradually release toxic substances, which accelerates the proliferation of pathogenic microflora in the intestines. Pathogenic bacteria can reach the baby through the blood and negatively affect its development.
• Chronic constipation leads to the occurrence of colpitis, which, in turn, can cause inflammatory process uterine mucosa.
• Microbes that actively develop during constipation can enter the uterus. During childbirth, the child will definitely pick up pathogenic bacteria while passing through the birth canal.
• Constipation provokes the development of dysbiosis, which, in turn, stops the process of absorption of nutrients from food that are necessary for normal human life.
• The feces begin to rot and release toxic substances that, through circulatory system reach important organs and systems. Ultimately, the entire body is poisoned.
• In late pregnancy, constipation can lead to premature birth. A pregnant woman constantly strains and tries to cleanse her intestines naturally during constipation.
• In the early stages, feces begin to put pressure on the uterus and can lead to miscarriage.
• Chronic constipation can lead to colon diseases. It could be hemorrhoids anal fissures and bleeding. That's why better constipation treat immediately after the first negative symptoms appear.

Drug treatments

Constipation in the early stages should definitely be treated under the supervision of a doctor, because the risk of miscarriage cannot be excluded.

So, we can highlight the following safe drugs that are recommended for use during pregnancy:

• Drugs that stimulate the intestinal muscular system. This category includes Defenorm, Gutalax, Dulcolax and Sena.
• Osmotic agents that accelerate the production of fluid in the body to liquefy hard stool in the intestines. These are Duphalac, Lactuvit, Normolact, Magnesium Sulfate.
• Medicinal plants that restore normal stool, namely castor oil, flax and plantain seeds, chamomile flowers.
• Microclysters. Glycerin suppositories and Microlax are recommended for pregnant women.

Prohibited means

Treatment of constipation during pregnancy should only be carried out under the supervision of a doctor, as serious contraindications and side effects are possible. Constipation medications for pregnant women should be prescribed only by a gastroenterologist and gynecologist after a complete examination of the patient.

• Enemas. This method is only recommended in emergency, when you urgently need to cleanse the intestinal system of solid waste products. However, there are a large number of disadvantages, namely, during the procedure, beneficial bacteria, which are responsible for the digestive process, are washed out of the stomach along with pathogenic microflora. During pregnancy, an enema can cause contraction of the uterine muscles and lead to premature birth.
• Vaseline oil and castor oil. As you know, oils are characterized by high fat content, which will negatively affect the liver, intestines and pancreas of a pregnant woman.
• Laxative medicinal plants that cause severe intestinal spasms. This includes buckthorn bark, senna leaves, and rhubarb root.
• Drugs that intensively affect the intestinal mucosa. This includes Regulax, Senade and Dulcolax.
• Laxatives based on bran and seaweed.
• Osmotic preparations based on magnesia, Carlsbad salt, sodium, which negatively affect water-salt balance body of a pregnant woman.

Only a doctor can choose the safest drug for constipation during pregnancy, taking into account the characteristics of her health condition.

Approved drugs

• Duphalac, which contains lactulose. This component is safe for both children and pregnant women. Lactulose is not absorbed in the body, does not enter the circulatory system, but is gently excreted from the body along with hardened feces. That is why it is recommended to choose anti-constipation medications that contain lactulose.
• Glycerin suppositories. Suppositories based on glycerin are allowed from the first days of a baby’s life. Glycerin is not absorbed into the circulatory system, has a gentle effect on the mucous membrane of the large intestine, and accelerates the production of mucus, which is necessary to soften solid waste products.
• Microlax. This is a ready-made microenema, which is recommended for both children and adults. The drug contains safe components that accelerate the removal of solid feces from the large intestine. Positive effect occurs within a few minutes after using the enema.

Nutritional Features

Constipation during late pregnancy must be treated only under the supervision of a doctor, because incorrectly selected medications can lead to premature birth.

At home, you can establish a stable digestive process dietary food. It is recommended to include products for constipation during pregnancy with a laxative effect in your daily menu. A large amount of fiber is found in cabbage, zucchini, cucumbers, cereals, apples, watermelons and fermented milk products. The main thing is to steam or bake in the oven with a minimum amount of spices and fats.

Healthy oils

Constipation during pregnancy should only be treated safe methods that are approved by doctors.

Oils contain a large amount of fats, which can negatively affect the functioning of the digestive organs, such as the liver or pancreas.

Before breakfast, it is useful to drink a spoonful of olive, flaxseed or sunflower oil to discharge solid waste products in the large intestine.

Salads with fiber

In the last stages of pregnancy, you need to listen especially carefully to your body in order to identify problems in time. possible symptoms constipation After all, incorrectly selected treatment methods can lead to premature birth.

You can establish a normal digestive process using a diet menu. It is recommended to include foods high in coarse fibers in your daily menu. It is fiber that quickly cleanses the intestinal system of toxins.

Healthy breakfast salad fresh apple, kiwi and plum, seasoned with yogurt with live bacteria. This salad will speed up the digestive process and cleanse the stomach of toxins. For better efficiency You can add bran to the salad.

You can also make a salad of beets and carrots if you are not allergic. It is recommended to season with fresh herbs and vegetable oil.

Dried fruits

Dried fruits are characterized unique properties. Prunes are especially popular due to their quick laxative effect. In addition, draining does not cause allergic reactions and is allowed almost from the first days of the baby’s life.

To prepare a healing decoction, you need to pour a glass of boiling water over several prunes. Leave for several hours, strain and take a glass before breakfast.

If there are no allergic reactions, then you can grind prunes, dried apricots, raisins and nuts. Pour the resulting mixture with honey and take one spoon before breakfast. It is not only effective for constipation, but also beneficial for the body.

Prohibited Products

During pregnancy, it is recommended to exclude foods with a fixing effect from the daily menu, namely:

• Bakery and confectionery products.
• Smoked sausages and canned food.
• Spicy and fried foods.
• Rice, legumes, potatoes, jelly.

Traditional methods of treatment

What to do at home if constipation occurs during pregnancy? You can also try folk recipes, but only after the doctor’s permission, because contraindications are possible.

So, we offer several effective laxatives:

• Based on beets and prunes, you can prepare not only a healthy, but also a healing decoction. All ingredients need to be crushed, pour boiling water and cook for several minutes. Strain the resulting broth and add a spoon natural honey for taste, if there are no allergic reactions. A decoction of prunes and beets is characterized increased level efficiency.
• You can simply prepare a decoction based on prunes. To do this, pour boiling water over several berries and leave for several hours. Strain and take a glass before breakfast.
• Dill water is allowed from the first days of life due to the absence of contraindications. In addition, one can distinguish the following positive attribute, as the ability to eliminate increased gas formation and bloating.
• Teas with fennel seeds. This is a safe plant that is recommended from the first days of a baby’s life and during pregnancy.
• Chamomile infusion will help not only dilute hard stool, but also relieve spasms.

Prevention

Prevention of constipation during pregnancy consists of the following key points:

• It is recommended to break your daily diet into small portions.
• The daily menu should include foods with coarse fibers.
• Confectionery shops and bakery products, fast food, fried, smoked and spicy dishes.
• If there is no risk of edema, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids in the form of water, tea, fresh juices and fruit drinks.
• Pregnant women are advised to keep active image life. Today there are special courses for pregnant women, namely swimming, aerobics and dancing.
• You should definitely include dried fruits in your daily diet, which help normalize the digestive process.

Constipation during pregnancy causes discomfort to the expectant mother. Untimely treatment of the disease can lead to the development of various complications.

Medical indications

The frequency of bowel movements is different for everyone. Normally, once every 2 days. Constipation during pregnancy in the first and last trimesters manifests itself in the form of rare bowel movements, small amounts of feces, dry and hard feces. If constipation is accompanied by nausea, burning, vomiting, bloating, bitterness in the mouth, then urgent medical attention will be required. These symptoms should alert you. Before getting rid of difficult bowel movements during pregnancy, it is recommended to find out the reason for its development:

• progesterone is higher than normal;
• constipation in early pregnancy develops against the background of calcium and iron deficiency;
• sedentary lifestyle;
• diseases of the anal area (hemorrhoids);
• stress.

On recent months During pregnancy, the uterus grows. By squeezing the intestines, it affects the movement of feces. This phenomenon has a negative impact on general condition future mother. Often constipation during pregnancy occurs against the background of gastrointestinal diseases (gastritis).

If the expectant mother experiences severe constipation in the later stages, then she should remain in bed. Rarely is a woman in the position hospitalized. Problems with bowel movements may occur due to poor nutrition and lack of fluid.

Constipation in pregnant women traps harmful substances formed as a result of the breakdown of food. They are then absorbed into the blood, providing bad influence on the female body and fetus. Constipation is dangerous during pregnancy due to the following:

• feeling of heaviness in the stomach;
• the appearance of pain syndrome;
• development of hemorrhoids;
• miscarriage.

When decay products stagnate in the intestines, the rectum or sigmoid colon and peri-rectal tissue may become inflamed. A fissure in the anus appears due to prolonged bowel movements. The baby's microflora is formed taking into account the state of the colon biocenosis female body. Toxins that accumulate during constipation, disrupting the vaginal microflora, lead to an infected fetus. You can cope with intestinal problems with the help of some products:

• dried fruits (prunes);
• oat and buckwheat cereals.

• exclusion from the diet of foods rich in dietary fiber;
• refusal of legumes, rice and semolina porridge.

Constipation in pregnant women can develop if cocoa is consumed too much. Every day you need to drink up to 2 liters of water. Anti-constipation products will help normalize the situation.

Medicines to relieve constipation

How to get rid of constipation during pregnancy? Before dealing with constipation during pregnancy, it is recommended to consult a doctor. The expectant mother must go full examination. To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor takes into account the patient’s complaints. The patient donates blood, feces and urine.

Among the instrumental research methods, doctors distinguish sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. The second technique allows you to quickly assess the condition of the intestines. For this purpose, a special device is used - a coloscope. X-rays are contraindicated for pregnant women. Constipation in pregnant women may occur due to impaired motor function of the colon, colitis, or megacolon. To exclude these pathologies, differential diagnosis is carried out.

Constipation during pregnancy causes a lot of worry and suffering. After identifying the cause of the disease and determining the stage of development of the disease, the patient is prescribed safe means from constipation during pregnancy. You cannot self-medicate. Tablets for the disease in question are contraindicated for pregnant women. The components that make up them irritate the receptors of the colon, which enhances its peristalsis. Some remedies for constipation for pregnant women help to increase and reduce the tone of the uterus. Expectant mothers can use glycerin suppositories. These drugs for constipation during pregnancy have a mild effect on the receptors of the rectum. This does not affect the tone of the uterus.

Additional treatments

For constipation during pregnancy, it is recommended to ask your doctor what to do at home. To prepare a decoction of prunes, you will need to take 100 g of dried fruits, beets and oatmeal. Mix the ingredients and add 2 liters of water. The product is boiled over low heat for 60 minutes. The broth is filtered and stored in the refrigerator. Before using folk remedies for constipation during pregnancy, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Do not use herbs that cause allergies.

A product made from prunes, dried apricots, raisins and honey has a similar effect. You will need to take 100 g of ingredients and 2 tablespoons of honey. Dried fruits are washed and passed through a meat grinder. Honey is added to the paste. The resulting product is consumed before bedtime, washed down with warm water.

Before getting rid of constipation using folk remedies, it is recommended to find out which herbs cannot be used (hay, rhubarb). The disease cannot be treated with physiotherapeutic methods and laxatives, since their action is aimed at terminating pregnancy.

Constipation during early pregnancy cannot be treated with laxatives, as they cause cramps and diarrhea. They contain various components, including acetylcholine. It activates intestinal motility. Simple laxatives affect the last sections of the intestine. They cause partial bowel movement. Such medications can be replaced with foods that contain fiber. It is prohibited to take medications whose action is aimed at normalizing stool.

Preventive actions

Getting rid of constipation in later stages is very difficult. If there are long-term problems with the intestines in pregnant women, you need to find out what to do from your doctor. You can't give an enema. This procedure is performed before childbirth to stimulate contractions of the uterus and intestines. To get rid of constipation, expectant mothers should choose medications and folk remedies whose actions are aimed at softening the contents of the intestines and facilitating the passage of feces. The products used should not contract the uterus.

Constipation after childbirth may bother you for 1-2 months. When the uterus contracts, the anterior abdominal wall remains stretched. To normalize muscle tone after caesarean section or natural birth with ruptures, laxatives are used. This technique prevents constipation. Prevention of the process in question during pregnancy consists of proper nutrition. To improve digestion, pregnant women's menus include foods rich in fiber and liquid dishes.

Particular attention is paid to drinking. Erroneous opinion It is believed that drinking large amounts of fluid contributes to the appearance of edema. You should not eat salty foods. Otherwise, water will be retained in the body.

You need to know the dangers of constipation. To prevent pathology, a pregnant woman should lead an active lifestyle. Due to lack of physical activity, digestion slows down. Doctors recommend taking frequent walks. A woman should perform special exercises for pregnant women. You can visit the pool and do yoga or aerobics. You must first consult with your doctor.

Problems with natural bowel movement are considered traditional companions of the gestation period. Constipation affects women regardless of age, health or lifestyle. This condition can not only be eliminated, but also effectively prevented by special preventive measures.

Causes of constipation in pregnant women

The main cause of difficulty in bowel movement during pregnancy is natural hormonal changes. Under normal conditions, the body produces special substances that intensively stimulate the contraction of internal muscles. The innervation of the intestines and uterus is the same, therefore, when one organ relaxes, a similar effect occurs in the other. This process can cause a miscarriage. To eliminate risk, the body is rebuilt, creating a kind of protection. A negative consequence is constipation.

Other factors that contribute to bouts of constipation during early pregnancy include:

• progesterone and increasing its level in the body (the substance affects the internal muscles already in the early stages of gestation);
• compression of the intestines by the uterus (a natural process caused by fetal growth);
• Foods with a high iron content can cause severe and painful constipation during early pregnancy;
• stressful situations (future mothers become more susceptible to external factors);
• autoimmune processes (a pregnant woman’s body requires constant replenishment of vitamins and beneficial elements);
• low physical activity (a sedentary lifestyle is a natural change for most pregnant women);
• lack of fluid (a woman should drink at least two liters of water per day);
• internal diseases (especially hemorrhoids, anal fissures and other diseases of the anal area).

What are the dangers of constipation in early pregnancy?

Difficulties in bowel movements negatively affect not only the condition of the woman’s body, but also the development of the fetus. Constipation during pregnancy should be treated when primary symptoms appear. You can eliminate discomfort in various ways. The most effective of them are considered to be a special diet, taking mild herbal laxatives and using some recommendations of alternative medicine.

The negative impact of constipation during early pregnancy consists of the following factors:

• abnormal microflora in the intestines in the early stages of gestation becomes the cause of congenital abnormalities of the digestive organs in the child;
• During an attack of constipation, several dozens of harmful substances that harm the development of the fetus;
• when constipated, a pregnant woman has to push intensely, which not only causes severe pain attacks, but also leads to stressful conditions;
• Poisonous products of food breakdown due to irregular bowel movements remain in the woman’s body.

What helps with constipation

The range of products for eliminating problems with bowel movements has a variety of names and forms of release. The key factor the choice of pharmaceutical products to relieve constipation is the level of safety for the body of the expectant mother herself and developing fetus. Experts strongly recommend starting preventive measures as early as possible.

How to deal with constipation during pregnancy:

• change in diet (starting from the early stages of gestation);
• compliance with the recommendations of specialists;
• use of folk remedies;
• special suppositories for constipation for pregnant women;
• use of medications.

Healthy foods for constipation

Proper nutrition can radically change a person's health. During pregnancy, diet plays a special role. Any abnormalities in a woman’s body automatically have a negative impact on the fetus. Certain foods can help relieve constipation during pregnancy. With their help, you can not only combat difficulties with bowel movements, but also normalize stools or eliminate indigestion.

Products that help avoid constipation in the early stages of pregnancy include:

• prunes;
• dried apricots;
• bran;
• raw beets;
• buckwheat;
• oat groats;
• bread.

Is it possible to do an enema during pregnancy?

Usage mechanical method getting rid of problems with bowel movements is widely used in medical practice. An enema helps to instantly get rid of the problem, but during pregnancy this method has a number of contraindications. This is due to some characteristics of the woman’s body. The procedure can provoke labor, so before using this method you should contact a specialist for clarification of the nuances.

Enema during pregnancy is prohibited in the following cases:

• identified danger signs threats of abortion;
• the woman previously had miscarriages;
• low placentation was established;
• increased uterine tone;
• diagnosis of isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

In other cases, the use of an enema is acceptable, but making a decision about its use on your own is not recommended. If the doctor suspects that there are abnormalities in the condition of the pregnant woman, he may prohibit similar procedures. Experts recommend the use of constipation remedies such as safe glycerin suppositories or the introduction of certain foods into the diet, and an enema is considered an emergency measure.

What is the safest laxative for pregnant women?

Taking any medications during the period of gestation, the expectant mother should not forget about the possible negative impact them for fruit. Medications during any stage of pregnancy are selected especially carefully. Constipation is treated only with safe and natural remedies. Some of them get the maximum number positive feedback and are especially popular among both doctors and patients.

The following medications help effectively relieve constipation during pregnancy:

• Duphalac (the drug is clear liquid, to get rid of an attack of constipation, it is recommended to take it for 2-3 weeks);
• Senade (tablets are considered a herbal laxative);
• Microlax (a special solution for rectal use, it helps to cope with an attack of constipation within about 15-20 minutes, can be used as urgent help if there is difficulty in bowel movement);
• Glycerin suppositories (the drug eliminates the symptoms of constipation, but it is better to use Glycerin suppositories during pregnancy only in case of emergency).

Effective folk remedies for constipation during pregnancy

Alternative medicine offers many recipes designed to eliminate problems with bowel movements during pregnancy. When choosing a specific method, you should pay attention to the composition of the recommendation. If among the ingredients there are products that can cause allergic rashes, then they should be discarded.

Examples of folk remedies:

1. Potato juice. Fresh tubers must be peeled, minced, grated or chopped in a blender. Squeeze out using gauze Fresh Juice and mix it with water room temperature in exact proportion 1:1. The product should be taken a quarter of an hour before meals, a quarter glass. Potato juice will not only relieve constipation, but will also have a beneficial effect on the digestive system as a whole.
2. Buckthorn decoction. Pour a few teaspoons of the herbal mixture into a liter of boiling water and simmer over medium heat for several minutes. After cooling, the decoction is ready for use. You should drink it twice a day, approximately 100g. Buckthorn not only has the effect of a good laxative, but also strengthens vitality.
3. Red rowan juice. To obtain the drink, you need to take only fresh fruits. The juice should be mixed with sugar and consumed after waking up and before going to bed, a quarter glass. For 1 kg of red rowan, take 600 g of sugar. The fruits strengthen the immune system and have a stimulating effect on the digestive system.
4. Castor oil. To eliminate problems with bowel movements, it is recommended to use the product in a three-day course of 30 g per day. Castor oil during pregnancy has the effect of a mild laxative, but it must be taken in strict accordance with the recommendations.

Prevention methods

It is necessary to take preventive measures to prevent constipation during early pregnancy already at early stages the process of gestation. Difficulty in bowel movements this period– a common and even characteristic phenomenon. When the first symptoms appear, discomfort can be eliminated special diet or folk remedies, but if you experience severe pain when going to the toilet, you will have to use medications.

You can prevent the problem in the following ways:

• if after morning awakening drink a glass of water, then after a short period of time there will be a urge to have a natural bowel movement, which will eliminate the occurrence of constipation;
• dried apricots and prunes during pregnancy are considered best helpers in preventing difficulties in the process of natural bowel movement;
• if you experience discomfort in the intestines, you can eat a small piece rye bread coarse;
• At night it is recommended to drink a glass of milk with honey;
• a woman should lead a relatively active lifestyle;
• food should be taken in small portions, but on average 6 times a day;
• From the daily diet it is necessary to exclude foods that can provoke digestive disorders (pickles, smoked foods, spicy foods, fatty foods, coarse fiber).

Bowel problems can occur in most women during pregnancy. The condition manifests itself not only as unpleasant sensations, but can be dangerous for the fetus.

Normally, people should have a bowel movement every day. The main sign of constipation is a decrease in the number of bowel movements to 2-3 times a week. This condition can also be manifested by dry stool and anal fissures. Half of pregnant women experience problems with bowel movements during the 16-36 weeks.

Causes of constipation

Intestinal problems can be caused by many factors and are divided into groups:

• Hormonal. During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur in the body. In early pregnancy, the amount of progesterone increases. This substance relaxes the intestinal walls, disrupting peristalsis.
• Poor nutrition. Constipation can be caused by a lack of fiber, which ensures normal bowel function. Women also consume little fluid, which causes stool to become hard and dry. Due to the onset of toxicosis, the expectant mother's appetite decreases.
• Mechanical. During pregnancy, a small amount of physical exercise, the growing belly compresses the intestinal loops, thereby stopping the evacuation of feces.
• Psychological. A woman, while expecting a child, experiences emotional problems: worries, stress, which cause problems with stool.

Danger of constipation

People suffer from difficulty in defecating due to the pain caused by this condition. During pregnancy, constipation becomes dangerous for the fetus due to disruption of the intestinal microflora. Pathological microorganisms turn out to be toxic and represent Negative consequences for a growing organism. According to experts, this may not happen due to the fact that hazardous substances are quickly neutralized, since the liver and kidneys work more intensely during pregnancy. But it is worth considering the fact that the anus is located near the genital organs - there may be a risk of inflammation due to constipation. Complications of defecation often lead to the development of diseases that are unpleasant for women: hemorrhoids, proctosigmoiditis, secondary colitis, anal fissure.

The occurrence of problems with defecation can cause miscarriage (in early pregnancy), untimely rupture of water, premature birth (in later stages) due to pressure of intestinal loops on the fetus, bloating, and straining when trying to go to the toilet.

Complications of defecation are also caused by problems after childbirth - the risk of developing purulent-septic complications (bacterial toxic shock, postpartum sepsis) increases.

Treatment of constipation

Treatment of constipation in pregnant women is complicated by many factors. One of them is a ban on the use of certain folk and medicinal drugs (senna), usually used by doctors to facilitate and eliminate the difficulty of bowel movements. However, it is under no circumstances recommended not to pay any attention to the problem that has arisen due to the unpleasantness of the sensations, as well as the complications described above.

This condition should be treated by a doctor who prescribes an integrated approach, most often at home.

Constipation is a problem that requires finding the real reason, causing problems with bowel movements. Treatment includes several methods.

Folk remedies

One of those helping traditional methods is a technique herbal decoctions from cumin, chamomile, mint, dill seeds: 1-2 cups of boiling water, leave for 25-30 minutes.

You can fight the problem with 1 glass cold water on an empty stomach. It is useful to make decoctions from prunes due to the strong laxative effect they have:

• Wash 70 grams of prunes, 70 grams of beets and rolled oats, mix, add two liters of water, cook over low heat for one hour. Take one glass (200 milliliters) at night.
• Rinse 90 grams of prunes, dried apricots, raisins, 20 grams of walnuts under running water, grind with a blender or meat grinder. Add one or two tablespoons of honey to the mixture (to taste). To facilitate the process of bowel movements, take 2-3 tablespoons at night, washed down with warm water, to ensure early bowel movements.
• 125 grams of prunes pour half a liter boiled water, leave to infuse for ten hours. Drink a glass of infusion three times a day (before breakfast, lunch, dinner).
• Take 70 grams of prunes, 150 grams of dried apricots and 2 liters of water. Place dried fruits in a saucepan and add water. After boiling, cook for 10-15 minutes, adding sugar and cinnamon to taste. Let it brew for an hour and a half without opening the lid.

In most cases, pregnant women turn to remedies traditional medicine due to lack chemical substances. It is important to observe moderation in their use for constipation, in consultation with your doctor, since traditional medicines, if abused, negatively affect the general condition of the woman and child.

During pregnancy, in order to eliminate constipation, enemas, castor oil, vaseline oil, laxative decoctions of hay (affects the tone of the uterus), joster fruits, rhubarb, and buckthorn bark are prohibited.

Proper diet

Lack of fiber is the cause of constipation.

There are many foods rich in this substance:

• Zucchini.
• Cucumber.
• Pumpkin.
• Beet.
• Rose hip.
• Black bread.
• Dairy products.
• Green peas.
• Sesame.
• Almond.
• Apple.
• Figs
• Apricot.
• Melon.
• Strawberry.
• Plum.

An excellent way to combat constipation is to eat the following foods:

• Raw vegetables, fruits.
• Black bread with bran.
• Dried fruits (prunes).
• Buckwheat, oatmeal.
• Veined meat.

You should eat in small portions, 4-6 times a day (every 3 hours).

From your diet you should exclude the consumption of fried vegetables, fatty foods, as well as:

• Chocolate.
• White bread.
• Blueberries.
• Coffee.
• Semolina and rice porridge.
• Mayonnaise.

Physical exercise

Movement is life. Physical activity It will also help with constipation. If doctors don't prohibit it physical exercise(due to the threat of insufficient gestation or miscarriage), then they should be performed.

Useful for pregnant women are swimming (up to the seventh month of pregnancy), daily exercises with smooth movements, breathing exercises, walking fresh air. In the last months of pregnancy, washing the floors is useful. You should not engage in jogging or complex physical exercises.

Restoration of the nervous system

One of the causes of constipation during pregnancy is psychological problems. In this case, it helps to cope with the problem by seeking advice from a psychotherapist and taking sedative medications (with a mild effect - “Glycine”).

Medicines

Most medications are contraindicated during pregnancy. If you have problems with the intestines, it is strictly forbidden to use drugs that are toxic to the embryo, as well as drugs that increase uterine tone, or to do enemas.

Tablets should be prescribed only after consultation with the attending physician, who determines the justification for using the drugs in each specific case.

During constipation, pregnant women prescribe carefully selected medications that cause little side effects. Helps to get rid of constipation:

• Normobakt - restores beneficial microflora in the intestines (dysbacteriosis causes constipation).
• Duphalac - contains lactulose (the substance restores beneficial microflora), the medicine softens stool, increasing its volume, has a mild laxative effect, and has a low absorption rate.
• Defenorm - herbal preparation(which reduces the degree of possible toxic effects of the drug) from plantain. A strong drug for improving intestinal motility.
• Bepanten cream - restores dry skin, helps avoid anal fissures
• Microlax - has a mild laxative effect, minimally entering the blood.
• Glycerin suppositories - activate the intestines (provides a slight irritant effect on the intestinal walls) without affecting the tone of the uterus (Hepatrombin).

Preventing constipation

Prevention - best treatment, especially for constipation. To prevent problems with bowel movements in pregnant women, these rules should be followed:

1. Be attentive to your diet (presence of foods rich in fiber, absence of fatty and gas-producing foods).
2. Drink enough water, eliminate salt from the diet, as it causes swelling.
3. Take vitamins mineral complexes necessary during pregnancy.
4. You should move more.
5. At the first signs of problems with the intestines, before stool retention (bloating), immediately consult your doctor.