[Medical Q&A] Why can’t pregnant women use enema and bisapian for constipation?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

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

In daily life, enema is a common medicine for many people to solve constipation. Its main ingredients are glycerin and sorbitol. These ingredients stimulate the intestinal wall, soften the stool, and reflexively cause defecation. Enema is not absorbed in the intestine and has a lubricating effect, helping the stool to be discharged smoothly. However, for pregnant mothers, the use of enema requires extra caution. Although enema itself is non-toxic, its decomposition products may irritate the uterus, which is a potential risk during pregnancy. Therefore, pregnant mothers should not use enema on their own, but should decide whether to use it under the guidance of a doctor after comprehensively considering the pros and cons.

Biansatin is also a common drug for treating constipation at home. It acts directly on the large intestine, stimulates the intestinal sensory nerve endings, causes the rectal reflex peristalsis to increase and lead to defecation. However, while stimulating the intestine, it may cause uterine contraction, leading to miscarriage and premature birth, so it is not recommended for clinical use.