Many pregnant women, even with normal uncomplicated pregnancies, get bouts of constipation. It usually occurs in the first trimester when hormone levels and pressure from the expanding uterus slow down digestion. Changes in diet and physical activity, morning sickness and iron supplements can also contribute to constipation.
32% of women can experience constipation at some point during their pregnancy.
Constipation symptoms experienced during pregnancy are no different to those experienced at other times and include:
Include foods that are high in fibre in your diet – such as wholemeal bread, wholegrain creals, fruit, vegetables and pulses like beans and peas
Drink plenty of water – maintain adequate water intake during pregnancy
Aim to move regularly to keep muscles toned – gentle exercise including walking, swimming or yoga
Some supplements such as iron can cause constipation. If you become constipated ask your doctor about alternatives
Constipation may be relieved by making lifestyle changes. However, if you can’t get constipation relief by changing things like your diet, fluid intake or activity level, a laxative may be an option.
Some constipation treatments can be used in pregnancy and when breastfeeding. Coloxyl 120 mg (and the lower dose Coloxyl 50 mg) is a gentle stool softener, which can be used to treat constipation in pregnant women.
It is essential to check with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy – so talk to your midwife, doctor or pharmacist for advice on whether a laxative is suitable for you.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about constipation and its causes, and which Coloxyl product is suitable for you.
Constipation is very common in pregnant women. It can be managed with lifestyle changes such as changing things like your diet, fluid intake or activity level, or a pregnancy-appropriate laxative such as Coloxyl.
And most cases of constipation during pregnancy are not a sign of illness, but occasionally, constipation in pregnancy could cause complications such as:
Do speak with your doctor if you’re concerned about constipation, and especially if you notice blood in your stools.
Coloxyl 50 mg or Coloxyl 120 mg can be taken in pregnancy but as with any medication always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking. A healthcare professional will assess the benefits of Coloxyl against any risks.
Coloxyl 50 mg or Coloxyl 120 mg can be taken whilst breastfeeding, but as with any medication check with your doctor or pharmacist first before taking. A doctor or pharmacist will assess the benefits of Coloxyl against any risks.
