Most pregnant women experience constipation after giving birth, which is mainly due to the compression of the uterus during pregnancy and long periods of bed rest. Below, I will provide some solutions to the problem of constipation after childbirth for pregnant women.
Causes of constipation after childbirth
1. Unique female physiological structure
Due to the unique female physiological structure, such as the compression of the rectum by the uterus in the pelvic cavity, the curvature of the rectum increases, and the weak vaginal muscles result in insufficient abdominal pressure during defecation, making the defecation time slower than that of males, making females more prone to constipation.
2. Increased levels of pregnancy hormones
Throughout pregnancy, the levels of pregnancy hormones in the body increase. These hormones relax the smooth muscles of the uterus and intestines. While the former is beneficial for the "settling" of the fetus, the latter slows down intestinal peristalsis, causing food and water to stay in the colon for a longer time, resulting in dry and hard stools.
3. Lack of exercise after childbirth
On one hand, prolonged bed rest after delivery leads to reduced activity and slowed intestinal peristalsis. At the same time, the expansion of the abdominal wall during pregnancy and the relaxation and weakness of the abdominal wall after childbirth result in reduced abdominal pressure. These factors can cause the stagnation of intestinal contents, making it difficult to be expelled.
4. Dietary issues
On the other hand, the main issue is improper postpartum diet, excessive consumption of refined foods, and insufficient consumption of fiber-rich foods such as vegetables and fruits. Some people also consume inadequate amounts of water. This inevitably leads to constipation and can trigger anal fissures.
Foods to eat for constipation after childbirth
1. Sweet potatoes
Eating more sweet potatoes can treat constipation and make bowel movements smoother. This is a common experience among the general public. "Ben Cao Qiu Yuan" also mentions that sweet potatoes can "cool the blood, widen the intestines and stomach, relieve constipation, and remove stagnant toxins." It is especially suitable for those with chronic constipation. You can also take 250 grams of fresh sweet potato leaves, stir-fry them with oil and salt, and eat them all at once. Take it on an empty stomach in the morning and evening. This is suitable for people with dry and compacted stools.
2. Bananas
Bananas contain a large amount of fiber and iron, which have the effects of relieving constipation and replenishing blood. Mothers in the lactation period often prefer to rest in bed, resulting in poor gastrointestinal motility and frequent constipation. In addition, postpartum blood loss is relatively high, thus requiring blood replenishment. Iron is one of the main materials for hematopoiesis. Therefore, eating more bananas during the lactation period can prevent postpartum constipation and anemia.
3. Papaya
Papaya contains abundant protease, amylase, and lipase, which aid in digestion. The coagulant in papaya has a lactation-enhancing effect. Eating papaya during the lactation period is beneficial. Regular consumption of papaya during lactation can significantly regulate gastrointestinal function and enhance the body's immune system.
4. Spinach
Spinach is cool in nature and has a mild taste. It belongs to the stomach and intestine meridians. It is an excellent source of vitamin B2, vitamin C, carotene, magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium. It has the functions of replenishing blood, stopping bleeding, promoting the five viscera, regulating the stomach and intestines, regulating the middle qi, promoting blood circulation, quenching thirst, and moisturizing the intestines. It enhances gastrointestinal peristalsis and pancreatic secretion, facilitating the quick elimination of feces and preventing constipation.
Recommended dietary remedies for constipation
Remedy 1: Pine nut porridge
Method: Grind the pine nuts into a paste and set aside. Cook the pine nut paste and glutinous rice with water over low heat until it becomes a thin porridge. Finally, add honey and cook for a short while before serving.
Efficacy: Pine nut porridge can nourish the blood and moisturize the intestines, suitable for postpartum constipation, and is a good remedy for relieving constipation for postpartum women.
Remedy 2: Almond and Angelica sinensis stewed pork lung
Method: Wash the pork lungs and slice them. Blanch them in boiling water, then remove them. Put the pork lungs, almonds, and Angelica sinensis in a casserole, add an appropriate amount of water, and cook the soup. After cooking, season to taste. Consume once a day, eating the pork lungs and drinking the soup, for several consecutive days.
Efficacy: This remedy has the effect of warming, unblocking, and relieving constipation. It is suitable for patients with abdominal distension and pain, difficult and infrequent bowel movements, difficulty expelling stools, and cold limbs.
Remedy 3: Honey and sesame paste
Method: Crush black sesame seeds and mix them with honey. Put the mixture in a bowl, add a little water, steam it, and consume it twice a day. Alternatively, you can directly purchase ready-made sesame paste, mix it with boiling water, let it cool down, and add honey before consuming.
Efficacy: Honey moisturizes the intestines, and sesame seeds have the effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys, nourishing essence and blood, moisturizing the intestines, and promoting lactation. Both are effective foods for treating constipation. Using this dietary remedy after childbirth can help with bowel movements.
