Constipation in the third trimester

You may pass hard stools, strain, feel bloated or sense that your bowel has not fully emptied. Iron supplements can contribute, but do not stop a prescribed supplement without discussing an alternative with your maternity clinician. Constipation itself does not indicate that labour is starting. Dehydration can make stools harder, while thyroid problems and irritable bowel syndrome can also affect bowel habits.

Drink regularly unless your clinician has advised fluid restriction. Add fibre gradually through vegetables, fruit, beans, whole grains and nuts, and give your body time to adjust. Gentle walking and changing position can encourage bowel movement if your pregnancy team says activity is suitable. Respond to the urge to open your bowels and use a footstool to keep your knees slightly higher than your hips. Ask before using a laxative, herbal product or suppository because pregnancy changes which options are appropriate. Nutrition Counselling may help you plan fibre-rich meals.

Contact your maternity team promptly for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass gas, blood in the stool, fever, or constipation with regular contractions, vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage. Seek urgent help if you feel faint, cannot keep fluids down or have signs of dehydration such as very dark urine and marked dizziness. Arrange a routine review if the problem continues despite self-care or began after a medicine change.

Could my iron supplement or another medicine be contributing? Which fibre product, stool softener or laxative is suitable for me? Do my symptoms suggest dehydration, thyroid disease or another bowel condition?