OvuloomWhat Is It?
Constipation affects up to 38% of pregnant women. Progesterone relaxes the intestinal muscles, slowing digestion. Iron supplements in prenatal vitamins can worsen it. The growing uterus also puts pressure on the intestines.
Common Causes
Progesterone slowing intestinal contractions, iron supplements, reduced physical activity, increased water absorption by the body, growing uterus pressing on intestines, dietary changes, and anxiety/stress.
⚠️ When to See a Doctor
If you haven't had a bowel movement in more than 3 days, if you have severe abdominal pain, if there's blood in your stool, if constipation alternates with diarrhea, or if you strain to the point of rectal bleeding (hemorrhoids).
💡 Tips & Management
Eat 25-30g of fiber daily (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans). Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily. Exercise regularly — even a daily 20-minute walk helps. Try prunes or prune juice (natural laxative). Ask your doctor about switching to a low-iron prenatal or adding a stool softener.
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