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What Causes Constipation During Pregnancy?

Posted on Thu, 22 Dec 2016

Question: I'm currently 7 months pregnant. The last couple weeks I've been extremely constipated. Only once a week I've been able to use the restroom and when I do, it feels like I'm going through labor. I feel contractions in my lower abdomen and lower back. After about 40 mins of the cramps, I finally have a bowel movement. I've been taking light laxatives but hasn't seemed to help. What does this mean and what should I do?

Answered by Dr. Ramadevi Wani (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Take bulk laxatives in the right dosage.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome to healthcare magic. I am Dr Ramadevi Wani. I will be answering your concerns.

Constipation is quite common during pregnancy.

Are you taking any iron preparations. If you feel that the constipation related to iron tablets, stop the those tablets first.
Increase fiber content in your diet. Make sure you take fruits and salads every day. Drink at least two liters of water daily. Probably you are not using the right dose of laxatives. Take bulk laxatives like Metamucil three times daily and see whether this helps. It is important to exercise regularly. For e.g. a daily walk of 30 minutes. This helps improve intestinal motility.
I hope this is helpful.
If you have further concerns, I will be happy to answer.
Best Wishes,
Dr Rama

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad