- Constipation is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the growing fetus.
- While these changes are impossible to prevent, you can take measures to reduce constipation.
- Stay hydrated, exercise regularly, eat more fiber, and try a stool softener for some relief.
- Visit Insider's Health Reference library for more advice.
Constipation is common during pregnancy, affecting up to 40% of pregnant people. You might be constipated if you have fewer than three bowel movements a week, or have stools that are hard and difficult to pass.
Luckily, constipation doesn't pose a risk to the fetus, says Yen Hope Tran, DO, an OB-GYN at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center. It's mostly harmless to the parent as well, although it can be uncomfortable and increase the risk for hemorrhoids, Tran says.
Constipation is most common during the third trimester when the growing fetus and uterus can put pressure on the bowel. However, it can happen during any trimester, and continue through the postpartum period.
Lifestyle changes and medication can help relieve constipation during pregnancy. Learn more about what causes constipation during pregnancy, and what treatments might help you get back to normal.
What causes constipation during pregnancy
Pregnant people are at increased risk for constipation for a variety of reasons, says Tran.
1. Hormonal changes
Pregnant people experience lots of hormonal changes, but the one that might be gumming you up is the rise in progesterone.
Progesterone is produced by the ovaries and placenta during pregnancy. It slows the digestive system, in part to allow the body to absorb additional nutrients from food. Unfortunately, that slowdown can result in harder stools that are painful to pass.
"The stool sits in the bowel longer and more water gets taken out of it, says Tran. "The stool gets harder, resulting in constipation."
2. Dehydration and diet
Pregnant people need more water than people who aren't pregnant, since their bodies are producing extra fluids, and many pregnant people don't drink enough water, says Tran.
In addition, pregnant people often deal with food aversions and nausea that make it difficult to eat enough fiber-rich foods like vegetables, which can help relieve constipation.
3. A large fetus
As your fetus grows and your uterus expands, it can put pressure on the bowel. It's also why constipation is most prevalent in the third trimester when the fetus is at its largest.
4. Taking iron supplements
Pregnant people are at an increased risk for iron deficiency, so many take iron supplements or prenatal vitamins to reach the 27 milligrams of iron recommended daily for pregnant people.
While all that iron is important, constipation is a common side effect of supplements containing iron. Because of this, some companies add a stool softener to the vitamin.
5. Other medications
Pregnant people might be on other medications that cause constipation. Antacids, used to treat pregnancy-related heartburn, can cause constipation, as can calcium supplements.
6. A history of constipation
If you have had constipation in the past, you may be at increased risk for constipation during pregnancy. Sometimes this is related to your hormone levels and body structure, but it can also be a sign that lifestyle factors like not drinking enough water are at play, Tran says.
How to treat constipation while pregnant
If you notice that you're having trouble pooping, you can start implementing lifestyle changes that can help with constipation, says Tran. If those don't work, over-the-counter medications can offer relief.
Lifestyle changes
Drink more: Staying well-hydrated is essential for anyone dealing with constipation. Drinking enough water helps stools stay soft, which makes them easy to pass. Pregnant people should drink between 8-12 cups of water each day. "The most important part to preventing constipation under any circumstance is to drink lots of water," Tran says.
Eat more fiber: Eating plenty of fiber — found in high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables and grains — can relieve constipation and lower the risk for other pregnancy complications including pre-eclampsia. Pregnant people should consume 28 grams of fiber each day. Tran recommends eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and legumes to support colon health.
Exercise regularly: Exercise may help relieve constipation. Pregnant people, like all other adults, should aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are great options for pregnant people.
Give yourself a massage: Abdominal massage can fight constipation, Tran says. To try it, get in a comfortable position, reclined to one side, but not flat on your back. Gently massage your stomach in a clockwise direction, which is the same direction that stool passes through the digestive system. "This can help in freeing any potential impacted stool caused by a larger uterus," Tran says.
Medications
If you've adopted lifestyle changes but are still struggling with constipations, laxatives and stool softeners can help.
- Laxatives: Laxatives can help your stools retain moisture, making them easier to pass, Tran says. She recommends starting with bulk-forming laxatives. These add fiber to your stool, making it soft and large, which often triggers the need to poop. If that doesn't work, Tran recommends saline laxatives like Milk of Magnesia, which also add moisture to the stool. These are generally safe during pregnancy, but should not be used long term. Talk to your doctor before using if you have concerns.
- Stool softeners: Stool softeners are a specific type of laxative. They work by allowing water and oils to enter the stool, making it softer. You need to take stool softeners for 2-3 days to see an impact, but shouldn't take them for more than a week.
Insider's takeaway
Pregnancy constipation can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Remember that you're not alone — many pregnant people experience constipation due to hormonal and physical changes during gestation.
A healthy lifestyle including plenty of water, fiber, and exercise can help keep you regular. If that doesn't work, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about using laxatives, including stool softeners. Although those conversations can be awkward, they'll help you get relief.
"There are tips to help you get through what is probably one of the toughest parts of your day," Tran says.