What should a pregnant woman do for severe constipation?

Excess progesterone secretion during pregnancy can impair gastrointestinal digestive function, slowing intestinal motility and delaying fecal expulsion, thereby triggering constipation. What should be done if a pregnant woman experiences severe constipation?

What to Do for Severe Constipation During Pregnancy

In cases of severe constipation during pregnancy, laxatives such as glycerin suppositories may be used under medical supervision to facilitate prompt bowel evacuation. Constipation in pregnancy is commonly caused by reduced intestinal motility and prolonged colonic transit time of stool. When symptoms are severe, pregnant women should seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment—including physician-guided use of laxatives—to ensure rapid relief. Prior to establishing a definitive diagnosis, self-medication should be strictly avoided to prevent potentially serious adverse effects on both mother and fetus.

Additionally, constipation during pregnancy can often be prevented or alleviated through lifestyle modifications. These include establishing a regular daily bowel habit—ideally in the morning or approximately two hours after meals—and consuming a high-fiber diet rich in wheat bran, vegetables, and fruits. Daily fluid intake should be no less than 2,000 mL. Pregnant women may also engage in gentle physical activities suited to their preferences and physical condition—such as walking, prenatal yoga, or light household chores—to promote intestinal motility and relieve constipation.

Moreover, other underlying conditions may also contribute to severe constipation in pregnancy; therefore, prompt medical evaluation is essential to determine the cause and initiate appropriate, physician-directed management. We hope this information proves helpful!