What should you know about safe for pregnancy constipation?

Hormonal changes can slow bowel movement during pregnancy. Nausea, less exercise, iron supplements and pressure from the growing uterus can make stools harder or harder to pass. Constipation may involve straining, lumpy stools, a sense of incomplete emptying or a change from your usual pattern.

It is usually a bowel symptom rather than a sign that the pregnancy is in danger, but ongoing constipation deserves a review. Dehydration, thyroid problems and irritable bowel syndrome can also affect bowel habits, and the treatment depends on the cause.

Add fibre slowly through fruit, vegetables, pulses, oats and whole grains. Drink fluids according to your maternity advice, especially if vomiting or heat has reduced your intake. Gentle walking or other approved movement can help. Sit with your feet supported, respond to the urge to open your bowels and avoid forceful straining. If changes are not enough, ask a pharmacist, midwife or doctor about a suitable bowel medicine. Avoid unreviewed herbal products and do not stop prescribed supplements without advice.

Seek medical advice for symptoms that persist, recur frequently or begin after a medicine change. Get urgent care for intense or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a distended abdomen, inability to pass gas, rectal bleeding, fever, faintness or signs of dehydration such as very dark urine and marked dizziness.

Ask whether your iron supplement could be contributing, how much fibre and fluid is suitable, which medicine is safe for your pregnancy, and which symptoms need urgent review.