Constipation in the last trimester

Pregnancy hormones can slow bowel movement, while the enlarging uterus can increase pelvic pressure. Iron supplements, less activity, changes in appetite and not drinking enough can add to the problem. Hard stool, straining, bloating and a sense of incomplete emptying are typical constipation features.

Constipation does not explain every late-pregnancy symptom. Regular tightening, leaking fluid, vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain or reduced fetal movement should be discussed with the maternity team rather than attributed to the bowel.

If your maternity clinician has not restricted fluids or activity, drink regularly, walk gently and include fibre-rich foods that you tolerate. Increase fibre gradually and pair it with fluids. Use the toilet when the urge comes, allow time, and avoid forceful straining.

Ask before using a laxative, stool softener, herbal product or enema, and mention iron or other medicines. A clinician can review the supplement, assess your symptoms and recommend an option suitable for pregnancy. Nutrition counselling may help if food changes are difficult.

Call your maternity unit promptly for severe or constant abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen firm abdomen, blood in the stool, inability to pass gas, vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, regular painful contractions or reduced fetal movement.

Arrange advice if constipation keeps returning, interferes with eating or sleep, or does not improve after gentle measures. Take your medicine list and describe stool texture, pain, contractions and your baby's movements.

Could iron or another medicine be contributing? Is my fibre and fluid plan suitable? Which bowel medicine is appropriate at this stage? How can I tell bowel pressure from contractions, and which fetal movement changes need urgent attention?