Pregnancy constipation: Are stool softeners safe?

When a woman is pregnant, there are many considerations that need to be made in order to ensure a healthy outcome. One such consideration is the use of over-the-counter medications to manage constipation, a common discomfort that many pregnant women experience. Colace and Miralax are two of the most commonly used medications to treat constipation while pregnant. It is important to understand the risks and benefits that each of these medications may have in order to make an informed decision. In this blog post, we will be exploring the differences between Colace and Miralax while pregnant, as well as providing some useful tips and information to help you make the best decision for your health.

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Is MiraLAX safe to take during pregnancy?

MiraLAX contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350. As only a small portion of the medication is absorbed by your body, MiraLAX is thought to be safe for use for a brief period of time during pregnancy. According to a source in American Family Physician, doctors actually frequently choose MiraLAX as their first choice for treating constipation during pregnancy.

However, the use of MiraLAX in pregnant women hasn’t really been the subject of many studies. Due to this, some medical professionals might advise taking other medications whose use during pregnancy is supported by more research. Other options include stimulant laxatives like senna (Fletcher’s Laxative) and bisacodyl (Dulcolax).

Consult your doctor before using any medication to treat constipation while pregnant, especially if the condition is severe. Your physician may need to determine whether your symptoms are being caused by another condition.

MiraLAX is thought to be well-tolerated, safe, and effective when taken regularly. MiraLAX can nevertheless cause side effects in some people, just like other medications.

The more common side effects of MiraLAX include:

You risk experiencing diarrhea and having too many bowel movements if you take more MiraLAX than the recommended dosage. Dehydration (low body fluid levels) could result from this. Dehydration can be dangerous for both you and your pregnancy. Read about the significance of staying hydrated during pregnancy for more details. Make sure to carefully follow the dosage instructions on the package, and if you have any questions, consult your doctor.

It’s normal to be concerned about how any medication may affect you or your pregnancy, even though MiraLAX is thought to be safe and effective for treating constipation during pregnancy. Remember that treating constipation doesn’t have to involve medication. Changes in your way of life can lower your risk of constipation and increase the frequency of your bowel movements. Here are some helpful changes you can make:

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

Eat foods high in fiber. These include fruits (especially prunes), vegetables, and whole-grain products.

Get regular exercise, but be sure to talk to your doctor before you increase your activity level during pregnancy.

If you’re taking an iron supplement, ask your doctor if you can take less iron or take it in smaller doses.

There are additional over-the-counter laxatives that are safe to use while pregnant. They include:

dietary supplements such as Benefiber or FiberChoice

bulk-forming agents such as Citrucel, FiberCon, or Metamucil

stool softeners such as Docusate

stimulant laxatives such as senna or bisacodyl

Talk to your doctor before using any of these products.

Despite being a secure and reliable option for treating constipation during pregnancy, MiraLAX should only be used under the supervision of a physician. Consider asking your doctor these questions:

Should I take MiraLAX as a first treatment for constipation, or should I try lifestyle changes or other products first?

How much MiraLAX should I take, and how often?

How long should I use it for?

If I still have constipation while using MiraLAX, how long should I wait to call you?

Can I take MiraLAX with other laxatives?

Will MiraLAX interact with any other medications I’m taking?

Q:

Is it safe to take Miralax while breastfeeding?Anonymous patient

FAQ

Can I take Colace and MiraLAX while pregnant?

Is Colace safe during pregnancy?

Is Colace and MiraLAX the same thing?

What is the safest thing to take for constipation while pregnant?

What kinds of laxatives are safe to take during pregnancy?