Constipation during the third trimester

Hormonal changes can slow the bowel, while the growing uterus can leave less room for normal intestinal movement. Less exercise, dietary changes, low fluid intake, and iron-containing prenatal supplements may add to harder stools. Pelvic pressure can also make toilet trips uncomfortable.

You may notice infrequent bowel movements, hard or lumpy stool, straining, bloating, or incomplete emptying. These symptoms are not a reliable way to judge the health of the pregnancy. Persistent symptoms deserve review so other causes, including dehydration or thyroid problems, are not missed.

Keep fluids available and drink regularly unless your maternity team has limited your intake. Increase fibre in small steps using fruit, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and nuts. Gentle walking or another approved activity can stimulate bowel movement. Allow time on the toilet and use a foot support if it reduces straining.

Before taking a laxative, check with your obstetric clinician or pharmacist. They can consider your pregnancy, supplements, and symptoms and choose an appropriate option. Do not stop iron or replace prescribed medicines with a home remedy without advice.

Call your maternity team if constipation is not improving, is painful, or is affecting food and fluid intake. Seek urgent help for intense or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass gas, blood in the stool, fever, faintness, or clear signs of dehydration. Contact maternity services immediately for vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, regular painful contractions, or reduced fetal movement.

Ask whether your iron supplement could be contributing, which bowel treatment is suitable this late in pregnancy, and how to use it. Mention your last bowel movement, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, bleeding, and any change in fetal movement.