The increase in the hormone progesterone and the size of the uterus are directly related to constipation among pregnant women.
Maintain a balanced diet, the main menu in a pregnant woman’s meal. Spleen enlargement, hearing problems, and other risks of getting toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.
The constipation is one of the most common disorders among pregnant women, because about one – third of women in the state have trouble going to the bathroom.
The number of bowel movements is lower since bowel movements decrease, which can lead to other complications such as hemorrhoids .
Why do pregnant women suffer from constipation?
It is no accident that constipation is such a common problem among pregnant women. This disorder is due to the increase in the hormone progesterone , which causes a decrease in the activity of the smooth muscle of the colon and therefore the lengthening of the transit through the intestine.
As pregnancy progresses, it is more common to suffer from this problem, since progesterone and estrogen levels increase.
Another factor that influences constipation during pregnancy is the increase in the size of the uterus as the gestation months go by, which is an obstacle to intestinal transit.
The iron supplements that are sometimes needed during the months of pregnancy also affect intestinal transit, in addition to decreased physical activity.
More liquid and more fiber
To avoid this gastrointestinal discomfort that affects a large number of pregnant women, it is necessary to make lifestyle changes: from physical activity to taking care of the foods we eat.
It is advisable to carry out moderate exercise on a daily basis – as long as the gynecologist does not advise against it – to activate the transit.
Regarding diet, it is advisable to eat foods rich in fiber, increase the amount of daily fluids and avoid astringent foods , that is, those that harden the stool, such as bananas, candies, sugar or rice.
As for fiber, it is recommended to eat between 20 and 40 grams a day, either in fruit, cereals or vegetables. You can find the necessary dose of fiber in foods such as kiwi, avocado , plums, green beans or oat flakes.
As far as fluids are concerned, in the case of pregnant women it is advisable to drink more than two liters a day to avoid constipation.
