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Are Laxatives Safe To Use During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy brings body changes, including constipation due to hormones. Though usually harmless, it's uncomfortable. Dietary adjustments and safe laxatives can help. This article explores causes, prevention, and treatment. Scroll down to understand "laxative safe in pregnancy".

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Pregnancy is a miraculous journey that brings numerous changes to a woman's body, both inḍternally and externally. Expectant mothers may encounter various discomforts and challenges alongside the joy and anticipation during this transformative period. One common affliction that pregnant women experience is constipation, primarily due to hormonal fluctuations. 

While constipation during pregnancy is generally not harmful, it can cause significant discomfort. Fortunately, several ways to alleviate and manage constipation during pregnancy include dietary adjustments and, when necessary, using specific laxatives deemed safe for expectant mothers. 

The following article explores the causes of constipation during pregnancy, including methods to prevent and treat it and the safety of various laxatives during this crucial time.

What is the use of laxatives? 

Laxatives are medicines or substances that people use to help them have bowel movements when they're having trouble pooping. They can help relieve constipation or make it easier for people to go to the bathroom. However, it's important to use laxatives as directed by a healthcare professional, as using them incorrectly or too often can lead to health problems.

Constipation During Pregnancy: Causes and Concerns

Constipation is the difficulty or infrequency of bowel movements, usually accompanied by complex and dry stools. Hormonal changes during pregnancy are a significant contributor to constipation. Specifically, the hormone progesterone causes smooth muscle relaxation, which can affect the digestive tract. As a result, the movement of food and waste through the intestines slows down, leading to constipation.

It is worth noting that constipation is a common issue during pregnancy and does not usually pose a direct risk to the mother or baby. Nonetheless, it can result in discomfort and potential complications such as hemorrhoids and anal fissures, which can significantly or critically affect the quality of life of pregnant women.

Is laxative safe in pregnancy?

Using laxatives during pregnancy should be done with caution and only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. While some laxatives are generally considered safe for pregnant women, others may not be recommended. It's crucial to discuss any bowel issues or constipation with your healthcare provider to determine the safest and most appropriate laxative or treatment for your specific situation. They can guide and ensure your and your baby's well-being. Self-medicating with laxatives during pregnancy is not advisable without professional advice.

Preventing and Managing Constipation During Pregnancy

Pregnant women who can take steps for preventing and managing constipation, promoting their well-being and their baby's health.

If a pregnant woman is experiencing constipation, several things can be done to find relief.

Eating a high-fiber diet

One of the most effective methods is to teach a high-fiber diet, which includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. This can help to soften your stools and promote regular bowel movements, making digestion easier.

Drinking water

Another essential factor to keep in mind is hydration. Drinking enough water is crucial for proper bowel function, especially during pregnancy. Take plenty of fluids throughout the day, which can help prevent stools from becoming too complex and difficult to pass.

Exercising

Finally, regularly working out and exercising can help stimulate bowel movements. Activities like walking, cycling, swimming, and prenatal yoga are great options for promoting healthy digestion. By taking these steps, you can manage constipation during pregnancy and feel more comfortable overall.

Positioning

Paying attention to your posture during bowel movements can significantly impact your health. Elevating your feet with a small stool or footrest while sitting on the toilet can create a more natural position for bowel elimination.

Also Read: How to Get Unbloated in 5 Minutes?

Avoid Straining

It is crucial to avoid straining during bowel movements to prevent constipation and complications such as hemorrhoids. Patience is vital when passing stools.

When Natural Remedies Aren't Enough: Safe Laxatives During Pregnancy:-

Although lifestyle changes can help constipation during pregnancy, additional help is sometimes needed. Certain laxatives may be safe, but consulting a healthcare professional before starting any treatment is crucial. Here is an overview of laxatives that have been considered safe for pregnant women:

If you are experiencing constipation, bulk-forming laxatives like wheat bran, linseed, ispaghula, methylcellulose, and sterculia can be helpful. These laxatives work by increasing the size of the stool, making it easier to pass through the bowel. Using these laxatives during pregnancy is safe, as no evidence suggests any harm to the unborn baby.

  • Lactulose: Lactulose is a non-digestible sugar that draws water into the bowel, softening stools and promoting their passage. It is commonly used during pregnancy, and manufacturers state that it may be used when necessary without concern for harm to the baby.

  • Macrogols: Macrogols increase the water content of stools, aiding in their passage through the bowel. They are frequently used during pregnancy, with no reported concerns about harm to the baby.

  • Glycerin Suppositories: Glycerin suppositories lubricate and stimulate the bowel, typically reserved for more severe constipation. They are commonly used during pregnancy, and no adverse effects have been found.

  • Bisacodyl: Bisacodyl, or Dulcolax, is a medication that stimulates the movement of bowel and increases the water content in stool. While no specific studies have examined its use during pregnancy, no reported problems were associated with its use in expectant mothers.

  • Senna: Senna stimulates bowel muscles, aiding in the movement of stools. A study showed that using senna during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy is not linked to congenital disabilities.

  • Docusate Sodium: Docusate sodium stimulates bowel muscles, facilitating easier passage of stools. Three studies have shown no increased risk of congenital disabilities when used in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

  • Sodium Picosulfate: Sodium Picosulfate stimulates the bowels to help move stools along more quickly. While no specific studies have been conducted on its use during pregnancy, there have been no reported problems following its use in expectant mothers.

  • Linaclotide: Linaclotide aids in stool passage by stimulating and lubricating the bowel. There are no published studies on its use in pregnancy, and its effects during pregnancy remain largely unknown due to its infrequent use.

  • Lubiprostone: Lubiprostone lubricates the bowel to facilitate stool movement. Similar to linaclotide, there are no published studies on its use during pregnancy, and its effects are largely unknown due to its limited use in expectant mothers.

  • Prucalopride: Prucalopride stimulates the bowel to aid in stool passage. As with linaclotide and lubiprostone, there are no published studies on its use during pregnancy, and its effects during this crucial period remain unknown.

Conclusion-

Constipation is a common and discomforting issue during pregnancy, primarily driven by hormonal changes that affect bowel function. While it is generally not harmful to the mother or baby, it can significantly impact a pregnant woman's quality of life. Thankfully, several strategies to prevent and manage constipation during pregnancy include dietary adjustments, staying hydrated, regular exercise, and proper positioning during bowel movements.

Certain laxatives have been deemed safe during pregnancy when natural remedies are insufficient. These include bulk-forming laxatives, lactulose, macrogols, glycerin suppositories, bisacodyl, senna, docusate sodium, sodium picosulfate, linaclotide, lubiprostone, and prucalopride.

However, pregnant women must consult with their healthcare providers before using any laxatives to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the chosen treatment. Expectant mothers can prevent and manage constipation for a more comfortable pregnancy and improved well-being for themselves and their babies.

Also Read: 15 Benefits of Drinking Hot Water in Empty Stomach