Constipation during pregnancy
If you’re a Mum-to-be and you think you might be constipated, you’re not alone. Up to 40% of women can experience symptoms at some point during pregnancy. Constipation can also affect new Mums, with almost 1 in 4 still experiencing constipation three months after their baby has been born.16
Common Causes
- Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can slow the natural movement of the gut, and reduce the water content of the stools, making them hard to pass15,31
- The presence of the baby in your tummy may also increase the possibility of constipation15
- Reduced exercise or ‘bed rest’ may increase the risk of constipation31
- Not eating enough fiber31
- Not drinking enough fluid31
- Some supplements taken in pregnancy such as iron tablets, can cause constipation16
TREATING CONSTIPATION DURING PREGNANCY
There are many things you can do to help ease constipation when you’re pregnant:
- Start by making sure you’re well hydrated. Try increasing your fluid intake to at least 8 glasses of water per day.31,34
- Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods. Aim for 30 g of fiber a day.31
- Keep active. Light physical activity such as a walk or swim can help to promote normal bowel function. It’s best to avoid strenuous exercise, though.31
If these changes don’t help, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using a treatment such as Duphalac® Mum and Baby to soften the stools and help restore normal movement.15
Duphalac® Mum and baby works in a gentle and effective way to relieve the symptoms of constipation.35 It’s not absorbed by the body, so it can be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding women, and their babies.4
Check out the Duphalac® range to find the right product for you.