Which of the following can prevent or reduce the occurrence of constipation during pregnancy?
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The Human Body in Health and Disease6th EditionGary A. Thibodeau, Kevin T. Patton 1,861 solutions Constipation is one of the most common health issues during pregnancy. Find out how to best treat this condition at Huggies. Constipation is one of the most common health issues during pregnancy. Though as familiar and universal as it is, constipation still remains one of the least talked about aspects of pregnancy. Embarrassment, combined with our general reluctance to talk about bowel functioning, means that many women are unsure if their experience is unique. It is worth remembering that constipation is a symptom rather than a disease. It is often the result of another condition such as pregnancy, a sedentary lifestyle, inadequate diet or other illness. What is constipation? Constipation refers to the passage of small, hard bowel motions. It relates to the consistency of the motions or “poo”, rather than the frequency they are passed. The longer that poo sits in the large intestines, the more water is reabsorbed back into the body and the harder the poo becomes. One of the major functions of the large bowel is to reabsorb water back through the lining of the bowel. In some individuals, the poo remains for so long in the bowel that most, if not all the water is leeched back out, leaving the poo almost devoid of any fluid. Another role of the large intestine is to push the bowel motion along the bowel wall towards the rectum. When there is some interruption in this process and the poo sits for longer than it needs to, constipation occurs. A certain amount of water is necessary to help form bowel motions and give them shape. When there is little fluid left, this leads to pain when having a bowel motion, anal tenderness and sometimes tearing of the tissues. Other common symptoms are abdominal pain and a feeling of fullness and bloating. Constipation can also lead to problems with bad breath and a general feeling of sluggishness and fatigue. Why is constipation during pregnancy so common? There seems to be a number of contributing factors which lead to constipation during pregnancy and these include:
What is the treatment for constipation during pregnancy?
It is important to rule out other medical conditions which may be causing constipation during pregnancy. Gestational Diabetes, Hyperemesis Gravidarum, haemorrhoids or hypothyroidism can all influence the likelihood of constipation occurring. What foods help with constipation?
What should I avoid? Mineral oils, harsh aperients such as castor oil and laxative tablets can be risky during pregnancy. When taken in the extreme they can lead to premature labour. What else can help with constipation?
Remember: Constipation is not uncommon after childbirth. In the early weeks following vaginal delivery, pain around the perineum and anus is common, especially when a mother has had an episiotomy or stitches. When breastfeeding, it is important to drink plenty of water otherwise, constipation is more common. Constipation during pregnancy can lead to problems with haemorrhoids (piles) developing. These can be very painful and cause real discomfort after childbirth. Find out what works for you in maintaining regular and comfortable bowel habits. Many women take their own supply of bran, nuts, seeds and stool softeners to the maternity hospital. Just remember to check with your maternity care provider if any of these are contraindicated with breastfeeding. Have more questions on pregnancy? Join a support group (if you have not done so!). Motherhood represents a completely new phase in your life and a community of new mothers who can journey with you will be helpful! Pregnancy tips, parenting tips, free diaper samples and exclusive diaper offers shared on the Huggies Club platform can ensure you are best prepared for your newborn child too. The information published herein is intended and strictly only for informational, educational, purposes and the same shall not be misconstrued as medical advice. If you are worried about your own health, or your child’s well being, seek immediate medical advice. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information on this website. Kimberly-Clark and/ or its subsidiaries assumes no liability for the interpretation and/or use of the information contained in this article. Further, while due care and caution has been taken to ensure that the content here is free from mistakes or omissions, Kimberly-Clark and/ or its subsidiaries makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information here, and to the extent permitted by law, Kimberly-Clark and/ or its subsidiaries do not accept any liability or responsibility for claims, errors or omissions. You might like these articles!
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eat foods that are high in fibre, such as wholemeal breads and cereals, fruit and vegetables, and pulses such as beans and lentils – read more about having a healthy diet in pregnancy. exercise regularly to keep your muscles toned – read more about exercise in pregnancy. drink plenty of water.
Which of the following can prevent constipation?The following can help you avoid developing chronic constipation. Include plenty of high-fiber foods in your diet, including beans, vegetables, fruits, whole grain cereals and bran. Eat fewer foods with low amounts of fiber such as processed foods, and dairy and meat products. Drink plenty of fluids.
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