How to Relieve Constipation During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of immense physical and emotional changes. As a pregnant woman, it is important to make sure you are aware of all of the products and medicines you are taking during this time. One of the most common questions that arises is whether or not Metamucil is safe for pregnant women to take.
Metamucil is a popular over-the-counter product used to treat constipation and other digestive health issues. It is often taken as a dietary supplement due to its high fiber content. Many pregnant women are curious if they can safely take Metamucil while pregnant. In this blog post, we will be discussing the potential risks and benefits associated with taking Metamucil during pregnancy. We will be looking at the potential effects it may have on the health of both the mother and the baby, as well as any potential side effects that may occur. We will also be discussing other alternatives to Metamucil for pregnant women. By the

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Constipation is undoubtedly among the long list of unpleasant pregnancy symptoms. It’s not just a sign of early pregnancy; for some women, it lasts for the full nine months and into the postpartum period.

Hormones, specifically progesterone, are typically to blame for pregnancy’s annoying side effects. Felice Gersh, M.D. explains that progesterone reduces muscle contraction in the uterus as well as other organs like the gut and colon to prevent premature labor. D. , an OB/GYN in Irvine, California. You have a recipe for constipation when you combine the fact that your growing baby is taking up more and more space in your uterus with any dietary modifications brought on by pregnancy cravings or aversions.

According to Sherry Ross, M.D., some unlucky women may experience constipation as soon as they start taking their prenatal vitamins and it may last the entire pregnancy. D. , an OB/GYN at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, and a specialist in women’s health

Constipation is a typical side effect of pregnancy caused by hormone-related relaxation of the intestinal muscles, decreased physical activity, a low-fiber diet, and anxiety. Although dietary and lifestyle changes, like drinking more water, are the preferred course of action, pregnant women can occasionally use over-the-counter laxatives like Metamucil.

A laxative known as psyllium or metamucil works by adding water to stools to make them softer and easier to pass. Despite the fact that psyllium is effective for treating occasional constipation, it can also become habit-forming. In other words, if you take the medication for a long time, you might become reliant on Metamucil to cause a bowel movement.

How to Choose the Best Fiber Supplements for Pregnancy

A healthy diet is one of many factors that affects the health of your unborn child while you are pregnant. But did you know that the foods you consume can affect the size and weight of your unborn child? One element of your prenatal diet that may be lacking is fiber.

Constipation, which can be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous during pregnancy, is prevented by fiber, ensuring bowel regularity. Additionally, fiber encourages a healthy digestive system and aids in the prevention or relief of heartburn, two additional typical pregnancy discomforts.

As you work towards a healthier pregnancy, it is crucial that you make sure each fiber supplement you consider using contains good ingredients, such as only natural ones. With some women, fiber supplements aren’t necessary. As we’ve repeatedly emphasized, consult your doctor to determine whether or not a fiber supplement for pregnancy is appropriate for you at this time.

Given what you now know about consuming fiber during pregnancy, here is more information on the top 13 fiber supplements for 2022:

Our dietary supplement can help with chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, digestive problems, and cholesterol levels because it is made with natural plants and fibers. You may experience an improvement in your general health by including psyllium fiber to a healthy diet low in cholesterol and saturated fat.

Your security and knowledge of the foods you consume are important to us. Because of this, we send our products to outside laboratories for evaluation so that we can publish the findings on their website. This way, you are fully aware of the contents and effects of every supplement.

FAQ

How often can I take Metamucil while pregnant?

If you’re experiencing constipation in pregnancy, we recommend you try adding some Metamucil to your diet every day to help get and keep you regular.

Can I take fiber powder while pregnant?

“Bulk-forming laxatives, such as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safe to use during pregnancy,” says Dr. Ross.

What fiber can I take while pregnant?

Add these items to your next grocery list to ensure you’re covered on the recommended fiber intake:
  • Fruits: Raspberries, bananas, pears, oranges, strawberries, figs.
  • Grains: Pasta, barley, bran flakes oatmeal, popcorn, brown rice.
  • Nuts and legumes: Split peas, lentils, black beans, lima beans.

What is not safe to take for constipation while pregnant?

Laxative pills are NOT recommended for the treatment of constipation during pregnancy because they might stimulate uterine contractions and cause dehydration. Talk to your doctor about taking an over-the-counter fiber supplement or a laxative or stool softener.

What kinds of laxatives are safe to take during pregnancy?

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