How to get rid of constipation during pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones can slow bowel movement, while the growing uterus, reduced activity, iron supplements, and changes in eating or drinking may add to the problem. Hard stools, straining, bloating, or incomplete emptying are typical features. Constipation itself does not usually harm the pregnancy, but severe symptoms or another cause should not be ignored.

Drink regularly if your maternity team has not advised fluid restriction. Increase fibre slowly with fruit, vegetables, beans, oats, or whole grains, and keep moving gently as your pregnancy allows. Respond to the urge to open your bowels and use a footstool for a more comfortable position. Do not start herbal products, laxatives, or suppositories without checking with your midwife, obstetric clinician, or pharmacist. If iron is making constipation worse, ask whether the preparation or dose can be adjusted rather than stopping it yourself.

Contact your maternity team promptly for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass gas, blood in the stool, fever, or symptoms of dehydration such as very dark urine and dizziness. Seek advice for constipation that does not improve, especially if you are taking iron or other medicines. Urgent assessment is needed if bowel symptoms occur with vaginal bleeding, fluid loss, or regular painful contractions.

Ask which fibre supplement or laxative is suitable for your stage of pregnancy, whether iron is contributing, and how much fluid and activity are appropriate for you. Clarify when to call the maternity unit.