Your body changes significantly during the pregnancy and the postpartum recovery period. One frequent but unspoken problem that might occur amid the excitement and fatigue is constipation. It can have a big impact on your comfort and general well-being, so it's more than simple irritation. The first important step in seeking relief and preserving digestive health during these critical periods is knowing exactly what constipation is, its causes, and how to recognise it.
Constipation: What is it?
Despite being a commonly used term, "constipation" has many meanings. It usually refers to infrequent bowel movements, usually occurring less than three times a week. But it's not just about how frequently you visit. Additionally, constipation can include:
- Difficulties with passing stools: You may feel as though there is a blockage, strain, or push too hard.
- Hard, dry stools: One important sign is the consistency of your stool. People who are constipated frequently pass hard, lumpy, or pebble-like stools that are challenging and occasionally unpleasant to pass.
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation: You may continue to have discomfort even after having a bowel movement if you feel as though your bowels haven't completely emptied.
- Abdominal discomfort: Constipation frequently comes with bloating, gas, cramps, and general abdominal pain.
It's crucial to keep in mind that everyone has different "normal" bowel habits. Bowel movements occur every day for some people and every other day for others. Recognising a deviation from your typical pattern or the persistent presence of symptoms is crucial.
Which common causes of constipation, particularly for women who are pregnant or recently gave birth, exist?
There are a number of variables, from a mix of lifestyle decisions, hormonal changes, physical changes in pregnancy and the healing process after giving birth, that can cause constipation.
Common sins that impact everyone
Eating low-fiber diet. Fibre makes your faeces softer and easier to pass by giving it more volume. One of the main causes of constipation is a diet low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Being dehydrated. Water is essential for maintaining the softness of your stool and facilitating its passage through your digestive system. Stools that are hard and dry can come from consuming too little fluid.
Lack of movement. Exercise encourages regular bowel movements by stimulating the muscles in your intestines. Living a sedentary lifestyle can cause delays.
Disregarding the need to poop. Over time, your body's natural rhythm may be upset if you consistently suppress your natural urge to have a bowel movement. This will make passing stool tougher and more difficult.
Changes in routine. Increased stress, travel, or changes in your daily routine can all cause problems with regular bowel motions.
Particular reasons for expectant and postpartum women
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and after giving birth, in particular the increase in progesterone during pregnancy relax all of the body's muscles, including those in the digestive tract, which slows the time it takes for the stool to pass. Gut mobility may continue to be impacted by hormonal changes following childbirth.
- Physical strain on the intestines during pregnancy comes from the growing uterus, which makes it more difficult for srool to pass through effectively.
- Iron supplements are a well-known source of constipation. They are frequently recommended during pregnancy in order to prevent anaemia.
- Painkillers during postpartum, especially opioids, can considerably impair bowel movement if they are used after a C-section or vaginal delivery.
- For many new mothers, the worry of breaking stitches or straining their C-section incision can cause them to "hold it in," which only makes their abdominal pain worse.
- Mothers may ignore their own hydration and regular, nutrient-dense food intake due to the responsibilities of nursing or caring for a newborn. These factors are both essential for regular, healthy bowel movements.
- During childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles, which are essential for bowel movements, may strengthen or stretch, impairing their capacity to perform at their best.
Constipation signs
Your bowel movements and any accompanying symptoms should be closely monitored in order to diagnose constipation. The following are some questions to ask yourself:
- How frequently do I go to the toilet? Does this pattern occur less frequently than usual? Are you regularly going less than three times a week?
- To what extent is my stool solid? Is it bumpy, challenging, or hard to pass? The Bristol Stool Chart, which shows constipation frequently in Types 1 and 2, can be a useful visual aid.
- Does trying to have a bowel movement cause me any pain or suffering? Do you have too much strain? Do you experience an obstruction or insufficient emptying?
- After having a bowel movement, do I feel as though my bowels are empty? Or do you still have a persistent craving or a feeling of fullness?
- Do I have other symptoms, such as excessive gas, stomach pain, or ongoing bloating?
- You are most certainly suffering from constipation if you say "yes" to a number of these questions.
When to get medical advice
It's important to consult your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, even though occasional constipation is common and usually manageable with lifestyle modifications:
Abdominal behaviours that change suddenly and without explanation and last longer than a few weeks.
- Severe cramping or pain in the abdomen.
- You have blood in your stool.
- Unexplained loss of weight.
- Constipation that does not go away with self-care techniques like drinking more water, eating more fibre, and moving gently.
In addition to suggesting the best course of treatment for your particular circumstance, your doctor can assist in identifying the underlying reason of your constipation.
Managing the health of your digestive system
The first step in effectively controlling constipation is knowing what it is, its typical causes, and how to recognise it. You can start making proactive lifestyle adjustments and, if necessary, seek medical help by being aware of these factors. We'll go into more detail in our next blog entries about how to avoid and treat constipation, including the advantages of good toilet posture—which a supporting stool can help with—to facilitate more comfortable and easy bowel movements. Watch this space for additional tips on how to have a healthy and happier stomach throughout your pregnancy and after giving birth!
