1. Eat to Get Going
Eat fiber during pregnancy to help you avoid constipation. It is important that you try to focus on eating fruits and vegetables that have fiber such as prunes and raisins. Whole grain cereal, whole grain bread, beans and peas are also good choices. Some of these foods may give you gas. If that is the case or if you notice that you are having very frequent bowel movements, you may be eating too much fiber. Simply reduce the amount a little and see what happens.
2. Drown Constipation
Drinking water and fruit juice will keep your stool soft to keep things moving along. Dehydration will make your entire body sluggish, including your digestive tract. Food that stays in your digestive tract for too long will become hard. Once waste becomes hard, it is very difficult to pass. You can try mixing 8 oz. of apple juice with 4 oz. of water.
3. Get Moving
Exercise to avoid constipation. Light exercise such as a relaxing walk or a swim will help increase your metabolism. The faster your metabolism, the better your body can digest food. Sometimes, because of problems with a pregnancy that require bed rest, it is not possible for you to do light exercise. If this is the case, ask your health care professional about stretches or therapy exercises that you can do in bed to help you avoid constipation.
4. Medicine and Constipation
Prenatal vitamins and iron can make you constipated. If constipation is a concern for you, ask your health care professional to adjust your dosage to avoid constipation. It may be possible for you to take smaller doses of medication more often. Women who experience indigestion or heartburn often have problems with constipation. This is because antacids contain calcium or aluminum. Both of these can cause constipation. If this is the case, consider taking a half dose of the antacid. Many times, a half dose will make the indigestion or heartburn bearable without causing constipation.
5. Soften Your Stools
Talk to your health care professional about taking an over-the-counter natural stool softener, such as Metamucil or Colace. Using stool softeners during pregnancy is safe; however, some health care professionals want you to use a stool softener only when necessary. If your health care professional allows you to use a stool softener, make sure that you take it when you will be near a bathroom. Different products will affect you differently so, try to figure out a time and product that works the best in your situation. It may be best to take the stool softener before you go to sleep. Don't use mineral oil or pill laxatives during pregnancy because these interfere with nutrient absorption.
