Which laxatives are suitable for pregnant women? Can it have any negative effects or complicate pregnancy for a woman? Answers to these questions and more in the following article.
The following details about safe laxatives for expectant mothers are crucial:
Safe laxatives for pregnant women
Here are some pregnancy-safe laxatives:
1. Bulk-forming laxatives
Bulk laxatives help absorb water towards the stool, making it larger, softer, and easier to pass through the large intestine and rectum. Psyllium, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil are some examples.
You should begin using this type of laxative in small doses and make sure you drink plenty of water because it can cause cramping and discomfort.
2. Stool softeners
Stool softeners, like Docusate, soften the stool by adding water, which makes it easier for the body to absorb.
3. Lubricant laxatives
Lubricant laxatives add a slippery substance either to the stool or the inside of the intestinal walls to help the passage of stool through the intestines. Examples include glycerin suppositories, which are safe laxatives for pregnant women but should only be used after consulting a doctor.
4. Osmotic laxatives
By bringing more water into the intestines, osmotic laxatives help to soften the stool. Additionally, they enable the intestines to contract more in order to pass the stool, but this may result in abdominal discomfort or flatulence. Examples include: polyethylene glycol and magnesium hydroxide ( Magnesium hydroxide).
Although these medications are safe for pregnant women, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking any medication, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy, as it is a crucial period for the development of the child.
Unsafe laxatives for pregnant women
It is important to highlight the most prevalent laxatives that are not safe for pregnant women after identifying those that are. The following are some of the most prevalent:
1. Stimulant laxatives
Stimulating laxatives topically stimulate the movement of the large intestine and reduce the absorption of water from it, but they are considered unsafe for pregnant women because they can stimulate uterine contractions, and we mention to avoid them: Bisacodyl as well as Senna
2. Cod liver oil
Cod liver oil is not safe during pregnancy to relieve constipation, as it can hinder the absorption of some vitamins and minerals.
Side effects of safe laxatives for pregnant women
Although safe laxatives for pregnant women can be used without fear of their effect on the pregnant woman or her fetus, it is important to avoid using them for long periods because this can lead to diarrhea, fluid loss, dehydration, and an imbalance of salts and minerals in the body.
Laxatives cause side effects like other medicines, but they are usually mild and depend on the type of laxative used. However, the following are some potential side effects of the majority of laxatives:
- Flatulence in the abdomen .
- Gases out.
- stomach ache.
- Feeling tired and exhausted.
Prevention of constipation for pregnant women to reduce dependence on laxatives
While there are safe laxatives for pregnant women, the main goal of preventing constipation through lifestyle changes is to lessen the pregnant woman's reliance on them in order to prevent complications.
Pregnant women can treat and avoid constipation by following these recommendations:
- Drink plenty of fluids, and water is a good option, as pregnant women should drink 10 glasses of water a day.
- Include movement and physical activity in your daily routine as this can help prevent constipation.
- Include fiber in the diet by choosing foods rich in fiber, such as: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, legumes, chia seeds, nuts, and quinoa .