Constipation During Pregnancy: What Is Safe To Take?

So, let's talk about something that might not be the most glamorous topic, but is definitely important- constipation pregnancy-related! Yep, you heard it right. Constipation during pregnancy is actually pretty common and can be a real pain in the... well, you know where. You might be wondering, why pregnancy causes constipation? What are constipation symptoms to watch out for? How to prevent constipation? What are the home remedies for constipation? Or medications?

But don't worry, we're here to help you understand what causes it, how to prevent it, and what to do if you're already experiencing it. Because managing constipation during pregnancy is crucial for both your and your little one's health and well-being. Trust us, you don't want to ignore it! Nobody wants to feel like having a bloated pregnancy.

Constipation pregnancy-related is extremely common and normal, and there are several methods to relieve it, including lifestyle changes and medications.

For most mothers, medications are highly used due to their ease and convenience as well as success in relieving constipation pregnancy-related.

If you are keen to find out more about safe medications for constipation pregnancy-related, read on! 

What is constipation?

Constipation involves when one struggles to poop, or with bowel movements. These are the constipation symptoms usually experienced. This commonly occurs when the food your body no longer needs hardens in the lower part of your digestive tract, instead of moving out as stool.

Constipation pregnancy-related is also much more common due to hormonal changes. Whereby 16% - 39% of women suffer from constipation pregnancy-related, making it difficult or painful to pass stools, especially in the third trimester when the foetus is heaviest and putting the most pressure on your bowels; this oftentimes makes you feel like you're having a bloated pregnancy.

However, this issue together with constipation symptoms often resolves itself as pregnancy passes. There are also home remedies for constipation to take note of. This article will also help you learn how to prevent constipation.

What is constipation pregnancy-related caused by?

Why pregnancy causes constipation? A myriad of reasons can cause constipation pregnancy-related, one being low levels of dietary fibre, and lack of exercise or water.

Learning these causes can help you know how to prevent constipation. These are treatable with home remedies for constipation.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the digestive system by slowing down food movement through the intestines, which seems to be why pregnancy causes constipation.

The hormone progesterone, which is essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, can cause relaxation of the muscles in the digestive tract, leading to slower bowel movements, which is a common constipation symptom.

Alternatively, hormonal changes can cause the gut to work less efficiently and food to move more slowly through the intestines, causing reduced gastric mobility.

The more food remains in the intestines, the more moisture is absorbed, and the waste is harder to pass, which feels like a bloated pregnancy. Lastly, the foetus’ extra weight can pressure your bowels.

The following constipation symptoms can characterise constipation during pregnancy:

1. Infrequent bowel movements - passing stool less than three times a week.

2. Hard, dry stools may be difficult and painful to pass due to their hard texture.

3. Straining during bowel movements is a common symptom of constipation, as passing stool becomes difficult.

4. Abdominal discomfort and feeling a bloated pregnancy - the buildup of stool in the intestines can cause discomfort and bloating or a gassy belly.

5. Nausea and loss of appetite - some women may experience nausea and loss of appetite due to constipation.

These symptoms can cause discomfort and make pregnancy more difficult, so managing constipation as soon as possible is important.

Top 6 medications for constipation during pregnancy in Singapore

Now that you are more familiar with pregnancy constipation, here are the best-recommended medications which are safe for pregnancy!

Taisho Seiyaku Colac 350 Tablet

Best for short-term relief

Features:

• Colac supplement is effective for constipation.
• Stimulates the bowels directly, manages pregnancy bloating.
• Activates movement, relieving constipation.

Metamucil Smooth Orange 4-in-1 Fibre Supplement 

Best for long-term chronic relief

Features:

• Multi-health fibre helps to boost health and vitality.
• Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
• Helps maintain digestive health and blood sugar levels.
• Perfect for long-term chronic relief through promoting gut health.

Dulcolax Constipation Relief

Best for those on a budget

Dulcolax is a type of laxative that is designed to stimulate bowel movements and help alleviate constipation.

It works by increasing the contractions of the muscles in the intestines, which can help move stool through the digestive system more quickly.

Dulcolax is commonly used to treat constipation or to empty the bowels before medical procedures or surgeries.

For women experiencing constipation pregnancy-related, Dulcolax can be an effective and affordable option for short-term relief.

The medication is available over the counter and can be taken orally in tablet or liquid form.

However, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before using Dulcolax or any other medication during pregnancy, as some medications may not be safe or appropriate for pregnant women.

While Dulcolax can provide quick and easy relief from constipation, it should be used only as directed and for short-term relief.

Prolonged use of laxatives can lead to dependence and other health complications.

Pregnant women should always consult with their healthcare provider before using any new medication or treatment for constipation.

Features:

• Straightforward laxative for relieving bowels.
• Stimulates bowel movement.
• Loosen stool and stimulate a bowel movement within 6 – 12 hours, giving predictable overnight relief.

ICM Lactus Syrup

Best for gentle relief

Features:

• Gentle yet effective relief from constipation in pregnancy.
• Softens stool mass.
• Encourages bowel movement.

Phillip's, Genuine Milk of Magnesia

Best for stool softening when constipation pregnancy 

Milk of Magnesia is a popular and effective treatment for occasional irregular constipation, and Phillips' Milk of Magnesia is one of the best options available in the market.

The main active ingredient in Milk of Magnesia is magnesium hydroxide, which draws water into the intestines to help soften stool and promote bowel movements.

For pregnant women experiencing occasional constipation, Milk of Magnesia can be a safe and effective option for relief. The medication is available over the counter and can be taken orally in liquid or tablet form.

It typically produces bowel movements within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking it, making it a relatively fast-acting option.

While Milk of Magnesia is generally considered safe for occasional use during pregnancy, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before using any new medication or treatment.

They can help you determine whether Milk of Magnesia is a safe and appropriate option for your specific needs and can provide guidance on how to use it properly.

Overall, Phillips' Milk of Magnesia is a highly reliable and effective treatment for occasional irregular constipation in pregnancy.

However, like all medications, they should be used only as directed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Features:

• Gentle yet effective and highly relied on.
• #1 milk of magnesia brand.
• Helps in stool softening.
• Cramp-free, sugar-free.

MiraLAX Laxative Powder for Gentle Constipation Relief

Best for breastfeeding when constipation pregnancy 

Pregnant women may use MiraLAX Laxative Powder for gentle constipation relief due to its safety profile and effectiveness in treating occasional constipation. MiraLAX contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350, which works by drawing water into the colon to help soften stool and promote bowel movements.

MiraLAX is considered a safe option for pregnant women because it is not absorbed into the bloodstream and does not pass through the placenta.

It is also not expected to harm the developing foetus or affect breast milk production.

However, as with any medication, pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider before using MiraLAX or any other treatment for constipation.

In addition to its safety profile, MiraLAX is also an effective option for gentle constipation relief. It typically produces bowel movements within 1 to 3 days after taking it, which can help to provide relief from discomfort and bloating associated with constipation.

Overall, MiraLAX Laxative Powder can be a safe and effective option for pregnant women who are experiencing occasional constipation.

However, it's important to always consult with a healthcare provider before using any new medication or treatment during pregnancy.

They can help determine whether MiraLAX is a safe and appropriate option for your specific needs and can provide guidance on how to use it properly.

Price Comparison Table

Now that you have a better idea of what to look out for when choosing a constipation relief medicine,  it’s time to make a purchase.

Below is a compiled table of mentioned medications and prices to help you make the best cost purchase! 

Note: Each item and price is up to date as of publication, however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.

Constipation pregnancy treatments and ways to relieve it

With constipation in pregnancy, there are many different treatments and ways to relieve it. Perhaps get away from feeling having a bloated pregnancy. Here are some of the common treatments: 

Eat fibre every day.  

Fibre softens your stools, making it easier to pass them

Drink 8 to 12 cups of water every day.

Water supports your health, and pregnancy, and softens stools.

Get moderate exercise twice to thrice a week

Even simple walking is good enough, movement helps stimulate the bowels instead of having them sit there. 

Try over-the-counter medications.

These help efficiently and promptly in relieving constipation in pregnancy, while the above lifestyle changes take time to show effect. 

Home remedies for constipation pregnancy

There are several home remedies for constipation management during pregnancy. This help on how prevent constipation and avoid having a bloated pregnancy. The list includes:

• Increasing fibre intake: Eating a diet rich in fibre can help regulate bowel movements. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are all good sources of fibre. This helps with pregnancy bloating.
• Drinking plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help soften stools and make them easier to pass. It's recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help stimulate the digestive system, manage pregnancy bloating and promote bowel movements. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all great forms of exercise during pregnancy.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are good bacteria that can help improve gut health and regulate bowel movements. Eating foods rich in probiotics, such as yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or taking a probiotic supplement may be helpful.
• Massage and relaxation techniques: Gentle abdominal massages or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, may help stimulate bowel movements and manage pregnancy bloating.
• Prune juice: Drinking prune juice can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. It's recommended to start with a small amount and gradually increase if needed.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before trying any home remedies for constipation, or pregnancy bloating, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications.

Safe over-the-counter medications for pregnancy:

Here are some safe medications and ingredients to look out for when seeking safe treatments for pregnancy bloating or constipation during pregnancy, or finding ways on how to prevent constipation:

• Colace (docusate sodium)
• Fibercon (calcium polycarbophil)
• Metamucil (psyllium)
• Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide)
• Miralax (polyethylene glycol)

Soon-to-be-mums, are you also experiencing morning sickness? Try drinking tea, read: Best Morning Sickness Tea in Singapore