Many expectant mothers find themselves increasingly prone to constipation during pregnancy. Why does this happen? Constipation during pregnancy is most severe in the later stages of pregnancy, mainly due to the secretion of large amounts of progesterone during pregnancy. Progesterone can relax the smooth muscles of the uterus, but it also weakens the peristalsis of the large intestine. As the uterus continues to grow and increase in weight, it can press on the large intestine, causing poor blood circulation and weakening the function of defecation. Today, I will introduce several methods to regulate constipation.
1. Improve lifestyle
1. Establish a regular bowel movement schedule and go to the toilet after waking up or having breakfast. After breakfast, the colon has more active propulsive movements, making it easier to initiate defecation. Do not ignore the urge to defecate and do not forcefully hold it in. It is also important not to spend too much time squatting on the toilet, as it not only increases abdominal pressure but also makes it difficult for blood to flow back to the lower limbs. It is best to use a sitting toilet for defecation, and after defecation, use a sitz bath to clean the perineum and anus, which is both hygienic and avoids prolonged squatting and increased intra-abdominal pressure.
2. Increase physical activity appropriately. More physical activity can enhance gastrointestinal motility. Adequate sleep, a happy mood, and relief from mental stress are also good methods to reduce constipation.
3. Maintain a relaxed mindset during defecation. Even if no stool is passed, it is important to remain relaxed. Otherwise, constipation may worsen.
4. Arrange a reasonable diet. Avoid spicy foods and eat more fiber-rich foods such as apples, radishes, vegetables, bananas, honey, and beans.
5. Drink plenty of water. Drink at least 1000 milliliters of water daily to replenish body fluids. This is an important method for relieving constipation.
2. Medication
If constipation cannot be relieved, immediate medical attention is necessary. Follow the doctor's advice and take laxatives. Do not use laxatives indiscriminately, especially in the late stages of pregnancy. Most laxatives can cause uterine contractions, leading to miscarriage or premature birth. Some laxatives also have certain toxic side effects that can affect the growth and development of the fetus. Oral laxatives such as lactulose and fruit laxatives act directly on the gastrointestinal tract without being absorbed, and have no toxic side effects on the fetus. Traditional Chinese medicine such as hemp seed and ginger also have the effect of relieving constipation.
When treating constipation, do not take lubricating laxatives such as castor oil or liquid paraffin, as they affect the absorption of nutrients in the intestines. Lubricating laxatives (liquid paraffin) reduce the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) by expectant mothers, leading to bleeding disorders in newborns due to vitamin K deficiency. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, during pregnancy, the nourishment of the fetus relies on the downward flow of yin blood from the viscera and meridians. Therefore, "insufficient blood nourishment leads to excessive qi". The treatment principles for obstetric diseases are to nourish the kidneys, regulate the liver, strengthen the spleen and stomach, and regulate qi and blood. For constipation during pregnancy, attention should be paid to nourishing the kidneys, strengthening the spleen, and regulating qi and blood. Pregnancy-related constipation can mainly be classified into four patterns: blood deficiency and yin deficiency, blood heat and intestinal dryness, spleen and kidney deficiency, and qi stagnation.
When constipation occurs, mothers do not need to worry. As long as they maintain the correct lifestyle and reasonable dietary habits, they can help regulate the constipation and solve gastrointestinal problems.
