Pregnant Women And Laxatives: Safe?

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, affecting up to 38% of pregnant women. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, such as increased progesterone levels and reduced motilin hormone levels, contribute to this issue by slowing down the normal movement of the digestive system. While increasing fibre and fluid intake and engaging in regular exercise are recommended first-line treatments, these methods may not always provide relief. In such cases, the use of laxatives during pregnancy may be considered.

What are some natural ways to relieve constipation during pregnancy?

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, with up to 38% of pregnant women experiencing it. It is caused by hormonal changes, pressure on the uterus, and iron in prenatal vitamins. Here are some natural ways to relieve constipation during pregnancy:

• Increase fibre intake: Aim for 25 to 30 grams of fibre per day. Good sources of fibre include fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, lentils, bran cereals, prunes, and whole-grain bread.
• Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight 12-ounce glasses of water per day. You may need to double your water intake during pregnancy.
• Eat smaller meals: Instead of eating large meals, try breaking your daily food intake into five or six smaller meals. This will help your stomach digest food more efficiently and transfer it smoothly to the intestine and colon.
• Exercise regularly: Engage in regular physical activity to stimulate your bowels. Aim for 20 to 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, three times a week. Consult your doctor to determine which exercises are safe for you and your baby.
• Probiotics: Probiotics can help improve bowel function by altering the colonic flora.

If these natural methods do not provide relief, consult your healthcare provider, who may recommend further treatments or medications.

What are some over-the-counter laxatives that are safe to use during pregnancy?

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and laxatives can be used to treat it. It is always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation before taking any medication. However, if natural remedies do not work, there are some over-the-counter laxatives that are considered safe to use during pregnancy.

One mild laxative option is Milk of Magnesia, which is a saline laxative. It is a mild option that is generally safe to take during pregnancy. However, some healthcare providers prefer to avoid magnesium-containing products during pregnancy, so it is important to consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Another option is to use a bulk-forming agent like Metamucil, which contains psyllium. Bulk-forming laxatives are considered a first-choice treatment for constipation during pregnancy. They are not well absorbed by the body and are generally safe to take throughout pregnancy. However, they may cause side effects such as gas, bloating, and cramping.

Stool softeners, such as Colace, which contains docusate sodium, are also considered safe during pregnancy. Docusate has not been associated with adverse effects in pregnancy and is not expected to increase the risk of birth defects. However, it should only be used as a short-term option for occasional constipation.

Osmotic laxatives, such as Miralax (polyethylene glycol), are considered a second-choice treatment option for constipation during pregnancy. They are not well absorbed by the intestine, so exposure to the pregnancy is expected to be small. However, they may cause side effects such as bloating, gas, and nausea, and prolonged use may lead to electrolyte imbalances.

While these over-the-counter laxatives are generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any new medications, especially during the first trimester.

What are some prescription laxatives that are safe to use during pregnancy?

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and laxatives are often considered for relief. While it is always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation, such as increasing fibre and fluid intake, laxatives may be recommended by a doctor if these methods prove ineffective.

Prucalopride (Motegrity®)

Prucalopride is a prescription laxative that is safe to use during pregnancy. It is not included in the list of over-the-counter laxatives discussed in the MotherToBaby fact sheet. However, it is mentioned as a prescription option, and further information can be found on their website.

Milk of Magnesia

Milk of Magnesia, or magnesium hydroxide, is a mild saline laxative that is generally considered safe during pregnancy. It works by pulling water into the intestines, making it easier to pass stool. However, some healthcare providers may prefer to avoid magnesium-containing products during pregnancy, so it is important to consult your doctor before taking this laxative.

Metamucil

Metamucil is a bulk-producing agent that is often recommended by doctors to treat constipation during pregnancy. It contains psyllium, a type of fibre that helps with the absorption of water in the intestines, resulting in larger and softer stools.

Docusate

Docusate, also known by the brand name Colace®, is a stool softener that has been studied and considered safe for use during pregnancy. It works by moisturising the stool, making it easier to pass without causing strain. Docusate is recommended for short-term or occasional constipation relief.

Lactulose

Lactulose is an osmotic laxative that is available only with a prescription. It increases the amount of water in the stool, making it easier to pass. While it is generally considered safe, it may cause side effects such as bloating, gas, and nausea.

It is important to consult your doctor before taking any laxatives during pregnancy, as overuse can lead to diarrhoea and fluid loss. Additionally, some laxatives may have side effects or interactions with other medications that are important to consider.

What are some laxatives that are unsafe to use during pregnancy?

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and laxatives can be used to ease discomfort. However, it is always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation before taking any medication.

If natural remedies do not work, there are some mild laxatives that are considered safe to take during pregnancy. These include Milk of Magnesia, a mild laxative, and bulk-forming agents like Metamucil, which is also recommended by the American Pregnancy Association. Doctors may also suggest stool softeners that contain docusate.

However, some laxatives are not recommended for use during pregnancy. Cod liver oil, for example, is unsafe as it can hinder the absorption of specific vitamins and minerals. Castor oil, a stimulant laxative, has been linked to premature birth and can stimulate contractions in the uterus. Mineral oil, a common lubricant laxative, has been connected to bleeding disorders in newborns and can lower nutrient absorption. Misoprostol (Cytotec), which is sometimes used to treat chronic constipation, has been linked to birth abnormalities and can induce labour. Colchicine (Mitigare, Colcrys), a medication used to treat gouty arthritis, has also been linked to negative cell growth, which is important for the development of the baby.

What are some other things pregnant women can do to treat constipation?

If natural methods of treating constipation during pregnancy don't work, your doctor may suggest taking a mild laxative such as Milk of Magnesia, a bulk-forming agent like Metamucil, or a stool softener containing docusate.

However, it is always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation before deciding to take any medication. Here are some other things pregnant women can do to treat constipation:

• Eat more fibre-rich foods: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends getting about 25 grams of fibre every day. Good sources of fibre include chickpeas, legumes (such as edamame and chickpeas), fresh fruits and vegetables (raw or lightly cooked, preferably with the skin left on), dried fruits, whole grain cereals and breads, and bran cereals.
• Drink more water: Aim to drink at least eight 12-ounce glasses of water a day to keep your bowels soft and moving smoothly through your digestive tract.
• Drink warm liquids: Try warm liquids such as hot water and lemon, or prune juice, to help stimulate peristalsis (the intestinal contractions that help you go).
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating large meals can overload your stomach and make it harder for your digestive system to process what you've consumed. Try eating five or six smaller meals a day instead of three large ones.
• Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help reduce constipation by stimulating your bowels. Pregnant women should try to exercise for 20 to 30 minutes, three times a week. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all good options.
• Take probiotics: Probiotics like the probiotic acidophilus, found in yogurts with active cultures, stimulate intestinal bacteria to break down food better and keep things moving. You can also ask your doctor to recommend a good probiotic supplement in capsules, chewables, or powder form.

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