It is not uncommon for some pregnant women to experience changes in their bowel movements. This is because hormonal changes, dietary changes, and uterine pressure can all contribute to digestive issues during pregnancy, including constipation. As a result, having a conversation about pregnancy poop is really important while expecting.
Yes, pregnancy poop is not the most exciting subject to discuss. However, knowing what to expect can reduce the element of surprise and alleviate anxiety when the unexpected occurs.
In this article, you will learn about bowel movements and their effect on pregnancy poop. Keep reading to learn more!
Interestingly, the first thing to note about pregnancy poop is that there may be times when it just doesn’t come.
Yes, constipation is a common complaint during pregnancy and hormonal changes in the body cause it. Progesterone, an essential hormone for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, can cause the muscles in the digestive tract to relax, leading to slower movement of food through the intestines.
Constipation symptoms include hard, dry stools, bloating, and straining. Experiencing gas or stomach pain is likely the last thing anyone would want to deal with while pregnant.
The good news is that constipation can be taken care of. Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, to soften stools and make them easier to pass. In addition, increase fiber intake; this includes eating more fruits and vegetables.
Constipation is not only physically unpleasant, but it can also cause strain. Small rectal tears (fissures) or swollen veins can result from this (hemorrhoids). Both can cause rectum bleeding, usually a small amount of blood that appears pink or bright red.
Anal fissures and hemorrhoids can heal on their own. However, to avoid the occurrence of new ones, avoid constipation and avoid straining.
Some of the most common causes include:
However, straining to open the bowels is one of the most significant risk factors for long-term pelvic floor issues such as incontinence, prolapse, and hemorrhoids.
The pelvic floor is already weakened during pregnancy due to the impact of hormones on the tissues preparing it for birth. Pressure is intense from the baby’s weight passing through the pelvic floor all day, so extra straining caused by constipation or poor bowel habits is the last thing a pelvic floor needs.
Of course, just like urine color changes, the color of stools can change during pregnancy. Normal stools are light to dark brown, but your poop may turn green during pregnancy.
Prenatal vitamins and iron supplements are known to change the color of poop from brown to green. If you take an antibiotic while pregnant, you may experience green bowel movements.
Although food dyes can darken stools, a dark color can also indicate bleeding in your digestive tract. During pregnancy, very dark stools are also possible. If you notice black or tarry poop, contact your doctor.
Seating on a toilet seat instead of squatting like cavemen also causes strain in the toilet.
Step 1: feel like using the toilet? GO!
Step 2: Get a small stool to put your feet on, and raise your knees as high as possible. Some clever tricks! If necessary, modify by standing on your toes or placing your feet on toilet paper rolls or a backpack.
Step 3: Maintaining a straight back, bring your upper body forward, so your pelvis tips forward. Place your elbows on your knees and relax.
Step 4: Breathe normally and resist the urge to hold your breath. It is critical to breathe and not hold your breath.
Step 5: If you require assistance, you can generate abdominal assistance by pushing your belly out (rather than straining in and out).
Pregnancy poop may not be something you want to discuss, but it is something you must consider.
Pregnancy can affect every part of your body, so expect some changes in your bowels as well. Remember that every pregnancy is unique. The key is anticipating changes so you know when they occur.
Finally, you should consult your doctor if you notice blood in your stool during pregnancy. They will be able to assist in determining the cause.
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