Bloating and constipation during pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones can slow the movement of stool through the bowel. Iron supplements, reduced activity, dietary changes and not drinking enough fluid may add to constipation and trapped wind. Pressure in the abdomen can make fullness more noticeable. Constipation itself does not diagnose a condition, but persistent symptoms may overlap with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Hypothyroidism or Diverticular Disease. Dark urine, dizziness, a dry mouth or inability to keep fluids down can suggest Dehydration.

Drink fluids regularly unless your maternity team has given different advice. Add fibre gradually through fruit, vegetables, whole grains and pulses, and pair this with fluids so stools do not become harder. Gentle walking and responding to the urge to open your bowels can support regularity. Ask your obstetric or primary-care team before using laxatives, herbal products or changing an iron supplement. Nutrition Counselling may help you build a pregnancy-appropriate eating plan.

Contact your maternity team urgently for severe or one-sided abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, regular tightening, fever, repeated vomiting, inability to pass stool or gas, a markedly swollen abdomen, or reduced fetal movement when that applies to your stage of pregnancy. Seek advice for constipation that does not improve or blood mixed with stool.

Could my iron supplement be contributing? Which fibre, laxative or stool-softening option is suitable in pregnancy? Do my symptoms warrant checking thyroid function or dehydration?