Constipation and Hemorrhoids

One of the most common complaints of pregnant women is the fact that they are constipated on a continual basis and that they've developed hemorrhoids. To be able to prevent constipation and hemorrhoids, you should know what causes them to develop in pregnant women.


Reasons for constipation

• The hormone called progesterone which increases during pregnancy may cause your stomach activity to slow down. This in turn will cause the stools to sit in your large intestine and become harder and drier.
• Taking prenatal vitamins that contain iron may increase constipation. Also there are certain antacids and calcium pills that may cause constipation, as well.
• When your uterus becomes larger, it may press on your stomach or bowel and therefore not allow the stool to pass through your system as easily.

Try getting relief the natural way

• Do your exercises on a regular basis and drink plenty of water. You should drink at least 8-8oz glasses of water each day. Juices are also great to keep your stomach moving, but you still need to drink your 8 glasses of water.
• Eat foods that are rich in fiber -- fruits, vegetables and cereals that are high in fiber.
• Fiber supplements are safe to use everyday, even when you are pregnant.
• Prunes and prune juice are also very good in relieving constipation.

Other methods
Products that are considered to be stool softeners or mild laxatives are also safe to use every day. But do avoid taking products that have stimulants in them.

Some don’ts

• Don’t use mineral oil to relieve your constipation. The mineral oil might prevent your body from being able to absorb all its nutrients.
• Don't use caster oil. It may cause early contractions in the uterus.

Hemorrhoids
Avoiding constipation may be a start to avoiding hemorrhoids. After all, hemorrhoids are caused by straining to have a bowel movement. Besides the above listed suggestions for relieving constipation, here are a few more tips on preventing hemorrhoids from flaring up.

• Do not stand for any extended time
• Try putting your feet up throughout the day
• Take warm sitz baths
• Use ice to take any swelling down
• Try not to do any moderate or heavy lifting

If you are still having problems with either hemorrhoids or constipation tell your doctor. He or she will be your guide to help you overcoming this problem.