Constipation is a common problem that many of us often experience. It can lead to the accumulation of toxins in our body, resulting in facial blemishes and melanin deposition. This is especially harmful for pregnant women and their unborn babies. To prevent harm to the body, we generally recommend using traditional Chinese massage to treat constipation in pregnant women.
Causes of Constipation in Pregnant Women
1. Hormonal effects
During pregnancy, hormone and growth hormone secretion increases, while gastrin secretion decreases, leading to prolonged transit time in the colon.
2. Mechanical factors
The enlarged uterus can cause intestinal motility disorders. Limited diaphragm and abdominal muscle movement can also lead to a lack of bowel movement.
3. Increased colon water absorption
Increased secretion of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone leads to slower intestinal motility and increased water absorption in the colon, resulting in constipation.
4. Dietary and activity factors
Inadequate dietary fiber intake, reduced mobility in the later stages of pregnancy, and decreased colon motility can all contribute to constipation.
How to Determine Constipation in Pregnant Women
1. Frequency
Having a bowel movement three times a day or three times a week is considered normal. So, not having a bowel movement in a day does not mean you are constipated, and there is no such thing as "stool buildup".
2. Color
Normal stool color is brownish-yellow or golden. If it suddenly turns white (chalky), black (tarry), or red (bloody) and continues for several days, don't panic, but go to the hospital for a check-up.
3. Shape
According to the Bristol stool chart, normal stool consistency should be between 3 and 5, resembling a banana or sausage. Occasionally having a different shape is also acceptable. However, if the shape of the stool is consistently abnormal, it may indicate an underlying health issue.
Massage for Constipation in Pregnant Women
1. Zusanli acupoint
Location: On the outside of the lower leg, about 4 fingers width below the knee bone.
Massage technique: The pregnant woman sits on the bed with her knees naturally extended. Use the thumb to press the Zusanli acupoint on the same side, while the other four fingers are pressed against the back of the lower leg. Rub the Zusanli acupoint with the thumb with appropriate force for 30-50 times.
2. Shenshu acupoint
Location: Shenshu acupoint is located in the waist, 1.5 inches away from the lower edge of the second lumbar vertebra spinous process.
Massage technique: Same sitting position as before, with both hands on the waist. Press the thumb forward against the rib end on the same side, while the middle finger presses on the Shenshu acupoint with appropriate force for 30-50 times.
3. Tianshu acupoint
Location: Tianshu acupoint is located in the middle of the abdomen, 2 inches away from the center of the navel.
Massage technique: Same lying position as before, with both hands on the waist. Place the middle finger on the Tianshu acupoint on the same side, with the thumb attached to the outside of the abdomen. Rub the Tianshu acupoint with the middle finger with appropriate force for 30-50 times.
