Constipation during pregnancy? Some tips to prevent it

One of the most frequent discomforts during pregnancy is constipationHowever, we can take certain measures that help us prevent it and make the intestinal transit adequate.

Constipation is characterized by a decrease in bowel movements, which are responsible for allowing the progress of feces. Hormonal changes and the increase in the size of the fetus as pregnancy progresses can increase this slowdown, with constipation being accentuated.

The reduction in the number and amount of bowel movements, together with a hardening of them, is usually accompanied by other annoying symptoms such as gastric heaviness, flatulence, evacuation pain, fissures ...

Other factors such as insufficient fiber in the diet or low fluid intake, stress or the appearance of hemorrhoids can cause the appearance of constipation in pregnancy and all those discomforts derived. How to avoid it?

  • Maintain a balanced diet that includes many foods rich in fiber, mainly of vegetable origin: fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts ...

  • Gradually increase fiber intake so that the digestive system becomes accustomed. At the end of pregnancy you will need more fiber since the little space in the abdomen slows the intestinal transit.

  • If the discomfort is evident, avoid eating flatulent foods such as artichoke, cabbage, onion, leeks ...

  • You should also avoid astringent foods, that is, those that produce constipation, such as quince, grapefruit, banana, skinless apple, rice ...

  • You should take fresh and skinned fruits (well washed) and whole grains (bread, pasta, cookies ...).

  • Drink plenty of fluids, mainly water and juices and natural shakes, milk ... The supply of fluids favors bowel movement.

  • If possible, try to maintain a habit when going to the bathroom, provided it is a quiet time.

  • Eat slowly, chewing food well and also trying whenever you can be regular with meal times.

  • Exercise daily, since keeping fit facilitates intestinal functioning.

We hope these tips to prevent constipation during pregnancy be useful to you If you still have difficulties when going to the bathroom, consult the gynecologist, who may recommend a natural laxative that is safe for pregnancy.