Laxatives During Pregnancy: Safe Or Not?

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and many women may consider taking laxatives to ease their discomfort. While some natural remedies for constipation, such as increasing fibre and fluid intake and incorporating more physical activity, may not always work, it is still recommended to try these methods before turning to medication. If these methods prove ineffective, it is best to consult a doctor, who may suggest a mild laxative such as Milk of Magnesia, Metamucil, or a stool softener. While there is little evidence that laxatives cause harm to the foetus, it is still advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Laxatives are safe to take during pregnancy

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and it can cause pain and other health problems like cramps, hemorrhoids, and breakdown of the anal tissue. While it's always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation, such as increasing fibre and fluid intake and exercising regularly, these methods don't always work. In such cases, laxatives can be considered.

Laxatives are generally considered safe to take during pregnancy, especially the mild laxative Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide), which is available over the counter. Bulk-forming laxatives like Metamucil (psyllium) and FiberCon (calcium polycarbophil) are also considered safe and are often recommended as the first-choice treatment option. These laxatives are not well-absorbed by the body and are generally safe throughout pregnancy. However, they may cause side effects like gas, bloating, and cramping.

Osmotic laxatives like Miralax (polyethylene glycol) and Glycerin (Fleet suppositories) are considered second-choice treatment options. They are also generally recognised as safe during pregnancy, but they can cause side effects like bloating, gas, and nausea. Lubricant laxatives like mineral oil are also considered safe, but they should be used carefully as they can enter the bloodstream in small amounts.

Stool softeners like Colace (docusate sodium) are another option that is considered safe during pregnancy. However, they should be used as a short-term solution for occasional constipation.

Stimulant laxatives like Dulcolax (bisacodyl) and Senokot or Ex-Lax (senna) are generally recommended to be used with caution during pregnancy due to a lack of evidence on their effects. They are also associated with unpleasant side effects like abdominal cramps.

It is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, which is a crucial time for your baby's development. They can advise you on the safest course of action and recommend specific products or treatments.

Natural remedies to treat constipation

Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and it can be uncomfortable and frustrating. It is always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation before deciding to take any medication. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive natural remedies to treat constipation, especially while pregnant:

• Drink plenty of water: Dehydration can cause constipation, so staying hydrated is essential. Aim for 2.5 litres/12 glasses of water per day to ensure your system is refreshed and to help break down food in the gut.
• Increase fibre intake: Eating more high-fibre foods can help prevent constipation. Aim for a mix of soluble and insoluble fibres, with a total recommended fibre intake of 25 grams per day for females. Insoluble fibres add bulk to stools, while soluble fibres form a gel-like paste to soften stools.
• Exercise: Exercise can help improve the symptoms of constipation by stimulating the muscles in the lower digestive system. Low-intensity exercises such as brisk walking or gentle yoga poses can be effective.
• Drink coffee: Coffee stimulates the muscles in the digestive system and may increase the urge to go to the bathroom. However, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) should be cautious as it may worsen their symptoms.
• Probiotics: Probiotics may help prevent constipation by improving the balance of gut bacteria. Probiotic-rich foods include yoghurt, kefir, and fermented foods such as sauerkraut.
• Eat prebiotic foods: Prebiotics improve digestive health by feeding beneficial bacteria in the gut. Prebiotic foods include Jerusalem artichokes, onions, garlic, and whole wheat bread.
• Try magnesium citrate: Magnesium citrate is a popular over-the-counter home remedy for constipation. Taking moderate amounts can help relieve constipation, and higher doses are used to clean out the bowel before medical procedures.
• Eat prunes or drink prune juice: Prunes and prune juice contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol with a laxative effect. They are a natural and effective remedy for constipation.
• Drink carbonated water: Carbonated water can help rehydrate and get things moving in the digestive system. Some studies suggest it is more effective than tap water at relieving constipation.
• Try Senna: Senna is a safe and effective herbal laxative that has been used for centuries to relieve temporary constipation. It is available over the counter and online. However, it should not be used long-term as it can lead to dependency and negative effects on the digestive tract.
• Avoid dairy: For people with an intolerance, eating dairy can cause constipation. Removing dairy from the diet can help relieve symptoms, but be sure to replace it with other calcium-rich foods.
• Eat pulses: Pulses such as lentils, beans, peas, and chickpeas are a great source of fibre and other nutrients that promote good digestion and reduce constipation.
• Relax and adjust your toilet posture: Not being able to have a bowel movement can be stressful. Try to relax, take your time, and adjust your toilet position to make it easier to pass stool. Raising your knees above your hips by resting your feet on a stool can be helpful.

Remember, it is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication, including laxatives, especially during pregnancy. They can advise on the safest course of action and recommend specific treatments if natural remedies do not provide relief.

Over-the-counter laxatives

It is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, including over-the-counter laxatives. While occasional constipation is common in pregnancy, it is recommended to first try natural methods to relieve constipation, such as increasing fluid intake, eating high-fiber foods, and regular exercise. If these methods are ineffective, your doctor may suggest a mild laxative that is considered safe during pregnancy, like Milk of Magnesia or a bulk-forming agent like Metamucil. Stool softeners containing docusate may also be recommended. It is important to follow your doctor's advice and use laxatives as directed to avoid potential complications. Overuse of laxatives can lead to diarrhea, fluid loss, and an increased risk of nutritional deficiencies due to reduced absorption of nutrients in the body.

Prescription laxatives

Pregnant women commonly experience constipation due to physiological and anatomical changes in the gastrointestinal tract. It is always best to try natural methods of relieving constipation before taking any medication. However, if natural remedies do not help, your doctor may suggest taking a mild laxative.

• Prucalopride (Motegrity®): This is a prescription laxative that is not available over the counter. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare provider before taking this medication.
• Osmotics: Osmotic laxatives work by pulling water into the intestines. Examples include salts such as magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia®) and sodium bisphosphate (OsmoPrep®), and sugars such as lactulose and polyethylene glycol (Miralax®). Osmotic medications are not well absorbed by the intestine, so exposure to the pregnancy is expected to be small.
• Fiber or bulk laxatives: These include psyllium (Metamucil®) and methylcellulose (Citrucel®). These ingredients generally do not enter the bloodstream, so pregnancy exposure is unlikely.
• Stool softeners: Stool softeners such as docusate sodium (Colace®) and glycerin can be recommended by your doctor.

It is important to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, including laxatives. While laxatives can be beneficial in treating constipation, overuse can lead to complications such as nutritional deficiencies and electrolyte imbalances.

Consult a doctor before taking laxatives

Pregnant women should always consult their doctor before taking any medication, including laxatives. This is because certain laxatives may be unsafe for pregnant women and their babies. By consulting a doctor, women can ensure they are taking the safest course of action for themselves and their baby.

Doctors may recommend trying natural methods to relieve constipation before taking laxatives. This is because it is always best to try natural methods first, as they do not come with the same risks as medication. Natural methods include eating more high-fibre foods, drinking more water, and exercising regularly.

If natural methods do not work, a doctor may suggest taking a mild laxative. One mild laxative that is considered safe to take during pregnancy is Milk of Magnesia. Doctors may also recommend taking a bulk-producing agent like Metamucil, or a stool softener that contains docusate.

If none of these products work, a doctor may suggest a stronger medication. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any stronger medication, as it could be harmful to the baby. For example, overuse of laxatives can cause diarrhoea, leading to fluid loss, and can increase the chance of nutritional problems as food passes through the intestines faster than usual, reducing the absorption of nutrients.

In summary, it is always best to consult a doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, including laxatives. Doctors can recommend the safest course of action and provide guidance on the different types of laxatives available.

Frequently asked questions