Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsNutrition ConsiderationsMedicationsSymptomsCausesDiagnosisPreventionComplicationsFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Nutrition Considerations
Medications
Symptoms
Causes
Diagnosis
Prevention
Complications
Frequently Asked Questions
This article discusses the main treatments for constipation while pregnant in yourfirst trimester.
Pregnant female in fatigues drinking water on a couch and holding a book.vgajic / Getty Images
vgajic / Getty Images
The recommended treatment to help relieve constipation symptoms during pregnancy is:
Treat constipation with nutrition and movement as follows:
Which Medications Are for Constipation in the First Trimester of Pregnancy?
If nutrition and movement don’t relieve your constipation, your healthcare provider may suggest taking laxatives as a secondary option. However, there’s little research on the safety of using laxatives during pregnancy, so it’s essential to consult your provider before trying them.
Some constipation treatments while pregnant may include the following:
Side Effects
Although all drugs cause side effects, OTC drugs used to treat constipation in pregnancy have few, if any, side effects. Some people may experience side effects like:
Speak to your healthcare provider if any of these side effects become bothersome or if you have any concerns at all.
How Effective Are the Different Treatments?
Although these OTC treatments are known to be effective, they may not work for everyone. For example, bulk-forming agents are safe for long-term use during pregnancy. However, they may not always effectively treat constipation for everyone during pregnancy. Hence, it is recommended that you speak to your healthcare provider to determine which medicine is right for you.
How Long Do the Treatments Take to Work?
Different drugs may take varying lengths of time to work in different people. Some people may experience immediate relief, while relief may take longer in others.
Senna usually produces bowel movements within six to 12 hours,while psyllium usually produces a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours.Docusate also typically takes 12 to 72 hours to work after taking it.
MiraLax andmagnesium citratework almost immediately, depending on the quantity taken. Generally, magnesium citrate works within 30 minutes to six hours.MiraLax takes one to three days to work.
Symptoms of Constipation During Pregnancy
Constipation is commonly experienced during the first and second trimesters but can also happen at other times.
Stay in constant communication with your healthcare provider while pregnant. Let them know if you have any symptoms of constipation during your pregnancy.
Symptoms of constipation may include but are not limited to:
Causes of Constipation During Pregnancy
Constipation is common during pregnancy, with a prevalence rate of 11% to 38%.
There are various causes of constipation while pregnant. Some common causes of constipationduringpregnancy include but are not limited to:
Your chances of experiencing constipation during pregnancy also increase if you have had the following anorectal diseasesbeforepregnancy:
Diagnosis of Constipation
Your healthcare provider may order routine blood, stool, and urine tests to evaluate constipation. Based on your symptoms, the provider may also perform a physical examination to diagnose your constipation while pregnant.
Tests used to diagnose constipation, including sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy, may be used in the general population but rarely in pregnant people. The diagnostic tests include the following:
Prevention of Constipation
Prevention is better than cure. Do your best to prevent constipation from happening altogether while you’re pregnant. Here are somebathroom tips:
However, if these methods fail, do not leave the constipation untreated or ignore it. You may be able to use some OTC medicines to relieve it.
Complications of Constipation During Pregnancy
Constipation during pregnancy may not seem like a big deal, but it may cause a few complications, especially if untreated. Some complications are:
Summary
Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy, especially during the first and second trimesters. However, it can be avoided or treated with simple measures. Actions you can take include the following:
Consult a healthcare provider who can guide you on the best over-the-counter treatment for constipation during your first trimester.
Yes, MiraLax is considered safe during the first trimester. Nonetheless, speak to your healthcare provider before starting any medicine while pregnant.
16 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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