Pregnancy Constipation: Safe or Unsafe Stool Softeners

Constipation is a common problem, and it affects women more often than men. During pregnancy it is one of the most common digestive complaints, and pregnancy constipation is a frequent symptom in pregnant women.

Most cases improve with simple diet and lifestyle changes. When they do not, some laxatives are considered low risk in pregnancy, but you should check with your doctor or midwife before taking any medicine.

An estimated 11% to 38% of pregnant women have constipation, according to a review in Canadian Family Physician. Some women have it for the first time in pregnancy, while others find that existing constipation gets worse.

Constipation usually means fewer than three bowel movements a week, hard or lumpy stools, straining, or a feeling that you have not fully emptied your bowels.

Causes of pregnancy constipation or constipation in pregnancy

Low fiber intake, not drinking enough, and moving less can all contribute. In pregnancy, hormones that relax the bowel muscles and pressure from the growing womb add to the problem. The main causes include:

1. Hormones:

Rising progesterone levels slow the movement of stool through the bowel. The longer stool stays in the colon, the more water is absorbed from it, which makes it harder and more difficult to pass.

2. Prenatal vitamins:

Many prenatal vitamins contain iron, which pregnant women often need. Iron supplements, and calcium supplements, can cause constipation and dark stools.

3. Pressure from the uterus

In later pregnancy, the growing uterus presses on the bowel, which can make it harder for stool to move through.

Besides infrequent bowel movements, constipation can cause bloating, belly discomfort, and hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. It can also leave you feeling that you have not fully emptied your bowels.

4. Home remedies

Most pregnant women can ease constipation with gentle, safe home measures. Fiber, fluids and exercise are the first-line treatment.

5- Fiber

Eat more high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains, or try a fiber supplement such as psyllium. Increase fiber gradually to limit gas and bloating, and drink more fluids as you add fiber.

6- Fluid

Drinking enough water helps keep stools soft and easy to pass. Clear soups and other caffeine-free drinks also count toward your fluids.

7- Activity

Being active helps stool move through the bowel. Regular exercise approved by your doctor or midwife, such as a daily walk, can help relieve constipation.

8- Probiotics

Your gut is home to many helpful bacteria. Probiotics may help with constipation, although the evidence is limited. Foods with probiotics include yogurt and kefir.

Which stool softeners and laxatives are safe during pregnancy?

If home measures do not work, talk to your doctor or midwife before using any laxative. Some types are considered low risk in pregnancy, while others are best avoided or used only briefly.

1- Laxatives

Bulk-forming laxatives (such as psyllium) are usually tried first because they are not absorbed into the body. Stimulant laxatives such as senna and bisacodyl appear to be low risk for occasional use, but they can cause cramping, so use them only short term and with your provider's approval.

Mineral oil is not a good long-term choice because regular use may reduce how well you absorb some vitamins. If your prenatal vitamin seems to be the cause, ask your provider whether a different iron dose or form would suit you, but do not stop prenatal vitamins on your own.

Although many laxatives are sold over the counter, always ask your doctor or pharmacist which one is right for you in pregnancy. Osmotic and stimulant laxatives should be used for short periods to avoid dehydration and changes in body salts. The following types are generally considered low risk:

2- Stool softeners

Stool softeners such as docusate let more water into the stool, which makes it softer and easier to pass. Studies have not found harmful effects in pregnancy, and they are often suggested when fiber alone is not enough.

3- Lubricant laxatives

Lubricant laxatives coat the stool or the bowel wall so stool passes more easily. Glycerin suppositories work in a similar way. Talk to your provider before using suppositories during pregnancy.

4- Osmotic laxatives

Osmotic laxatives draw water into the bowel, which softens the stool and helps it move along. They can cause gas and bloating. Examples include polyethylene glycol, lactulose and magnesium hydroxide. Polyethylene glycol and lactulose are poorly absorbed and have not been linked to harm in pregnancy.

Call your provider if constipation comes with severe belly pain, blood in your stool, or vomiting, or if it lasts despite these measures.

HP Thoughts: Here is another issue that all pregnant women have to watch out for: Yeast Infection During Pregnancy.

Related Tag: Home Remedies for Constipation