Medicine to relieve constipation during pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones can slow bowel movement, while the growing uterus and iron supplements may add pressure or make stools harder. Constipation can mean infrequent stools, hard stools, straining or a feeling that the bowel has not emptied. It is uncomfortable but often improves with practical changes.

Drink regularly unless your maternity team has limited your fluids. Add fibre gradually through vegetables, fruit, beans, oats and wholegrain foods, and keep moving with pregnancy-appropriate activity. A pharmacist or doctor may suggest a bulk-forming product, an osmotic laxative or a stool-softening option. Do not start a stimulant laxative, herbal remedy or combination product without checking first, and follow the label or prescribed directions. Review whether an iron supplement is contributing rather than stopping it yourself; your clinician can discuss alternatives.

Contact your maternity team or clinician if constipation persists despite self-care, keeps returning, or follows a medicine change. Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, marked swelling, inability to pass stool or gas, or blood in the stool. Dehydration signs such as very dark urine, dizziness or unusual weakness also need prompt advice.

Ask which product is appropriate for your stage of pregnancy, how long to use it, and whether it can be taken with your prenatal vitamins. Mention your fluid intake, bowel pattern, iron treatment and any pain or bleeding so the recommendation fits your situation.