CONSTIPATION AND PREGNANCY

Dr. Claude Allouche, Gynecologist Constipation engl
Ahuza Clinic, Raanana, Israel
058 726 02 64

Constipation during pregnancy

Constipation is a common concern during pregnancy, as it tends to slow down intestinal transit. It is also a contributing factor to the development of hemorrhoids.

What can you do to address this problem?

1. Change your toilet habits:

  • Go at a fixed time (half an hour to an hour after a meal) without straining too much to "push." After each meal, the colon experiences waves of contractions that may lead to the need to go to the bathroom. Your body will gradually adjust to a regular schedule.
  • Go as soon as you feel the need, without delaying it.
  • Take your time in the bathroom.
  • Using a footstool can help promote the passage of stool through the anal canal.

2. Follow these dietary tips:

  • Eat dietary fiber to increase bowel movement frequency and improve stool consistency.
  • Favor green vegetables and fresh fruits, which promote intestinal transit.
  • You can also gradually consume whole grain bread or biscuits.
  • Gradually increase your fiber intake over 8 to 10 days to avoid discomfort or bloating, aiming for 15 to 40 grams per day.
  • Avoid foods that are too fatty or sugary.
  • Drink water regularly and in sufficient quantities (at least 1.5 liters per day: water, soups, etc.).

3. How to adopt new habits for a fiber-rich diet:

  • Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables per day during meals, and when you feel a bit hungry between meals, opt for raw fruit or vegetables.
  • Consume more whole grain products (bread, rice, pasta, etc.) and legumes (beans, chickpeas, split peas, lentils...).
  • Eat dried fruits (prunes...) and unsalted nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios...).
  • When cooking, replace white flour with whole wheat flour.
  • Try cereals you may not be familiar with (barley, rye, oats, quinoa, etc.).
  • To avoid bloating, it’s better to gradually increase your intake of fiber-rich foods.
  • To prevent constipation, you can drink a glass of orange juice or eat a few rehydrated prunes at breakfast.

4. Physical activity to combat constipation:

  • Staying active is just as important as a balanced diet.
  • It helps you stay in shape and fight constipation.
  • Daily physical activity stimulates appetite and helps "lazy" colons. If there are no medical contraindications, practice walking.

5. No medications without medical advice:

  • Do not take any medications, especially laxatives, without consulting your doctor or midwife, as they can trigger contractions.