Constipation is common in pregnancy, caused by the relaxing effects of progesterone slowing the movement of waste through the digestive tract. This slowing increases water reabsorption, drying out the faeces and making them harder to pass.
In general, it is better to stay ahead of any potential constipation and prevent rather than try to cure it. Eat plenty of fibre and stay well hydrated – at least two litres of water per day! Gentle exercise can also help, such as walking or swimming.
If you’re struggling with eating enough fibre, you can buy psyllium husk over the counter, or it can be prescribed by your midwife. This is a supplement that works like dietary fibre, but it will only work well if you stay well hydrated. Chia seeds or flaxseed are also good for adding fibre to your diet and keeping you moving, in a smoothie or sprinkled on your breakfast.
If these measures don’t work, then your midwife can prescribe you a stool softener such as lactulose or laxsol, however, these are last-resort options and you must continue to drink plenty of water for them to work well.
Iron supplements and strong painkillers may increase constipation, and if you are on these your prescriber may include a stool softener to go with them.