[Medical Q&A] Why are pregnant women more prone to constipation?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Zhao Jie, Chief Pharmacist Professor of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Constipation is a common discomfort during pregnancy. 11% to 38% of pregnant women will suffer from constipation to varying degrees, especially in the early and mid-pregnancy. If not corrected in time, it may cause hemorrhoids. In addition, if the bowel movement is too forceful, it may cause uterine contraction, leading to premature birth or miscarriage.

Why are pregnant women more prone to constipation than the general population? After pregnancy, changes in hormone levels in the body are the main cause of constipation during pregnancy. Hormones such as progesterone secreted in the body cause gastrointestinal muscle tone to weaken and intestinal motility to slow down, which can also lead to constipation. In addition, the enlarged uterus causes intestinal motility disorders, the limited movement of the diaphragm and abdominal muscles leads to a lack of motivation for defecation, and the increased water absorption in the colon leads to dry stools, which make pregnant women more prone to constipation than the general population. In addition, drug factors, such as the adverse reaction of iron supplements is constipation; diet and activity factors, such as insufficient dietary fiber intake, reduced activity, and unfavorable colon motility can all cause constipation.

By understanding the causes of constipation during pregnancy, adjusting lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising more, and establishing good bowel habits, pregnant mothers can effectively reduce or avoid the discomfort caused by constipation.