Constipation during second trimester

The Second Trimester of Pregnancy: Constipation, Gas & Heartburn

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Kristeen Cherney on January 25, 2018

What happens in the second trimester?

Many significant changes occur in your growing fetus throughout the second trimester of pregnancy. It’s also during this exciting phase that you’re able to learn your baby’s sex and morning sickness begins to fade.

As your baby is growing, your body is rapidly changing. These changes may include digestive issues such as constipation, gas, and heartburn. Learn more about these common symptoms and how to find relief so you can get back to enjoying your pregnancy.

Digestive issues and pregnancy

The digestive system is a complex network of organs that work together to help your body break down food and absorb nutrients. It includes your:

esophagus
stomach
liver
small intestine
mouth
anus

Nutrient absorption is always important for creating overall energy and cellular function, but these roles are even more crucial in supporting a growing fetus.

Digestive issues occur in pregnancy because of an influx in hormones that relax muscles in the digestive tract. Natural weight gain from supporting your baby can also put additional pressure on the digestive tract.

Constipation

Constipation is a common symptom during pregnancy, and it’s more prevalent during the second trimester. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements per week.

Hormone levels can affect digestion beyond slowing down bowel movements. Bowel movements might be painful or difficult, and your belly might swell.

You may also have higher levels of iron if you’re taking prenatal vitamins. High iron levels can contribute to constipation.

Dietary changes are the most practical way to treat constipation during pregnancy. They’re also the safest way. Natural fiber intake can offset constipation problems. The UCSF Medical Center recommends between 20 and 35 grams of fiber per day.

Plant sources are your key to fiber, so make sure to eat plenty of fresh produce, whole grains, beans, and legumes.

Make sure you also:

avoid holding bowel movements
drink plenty of water, since sugary beverages can make constipation worse
exercise regularly to encourage movement in your bowels

As a last resort, your doctor might recommend a laxative or fiber supplement to soften and ease your bowel movements. Never take these without checking with your doctor first. Diarrhea is a common side effect of these products, which can lead to dehydration and cause complications during pregnancy.

Gas

A slower digestive system during the second trimester can lead to gas buildup that causes:

belly pain
cramps
burping
passing gas

You can’t change the way your digestive system works during pregnancy, but you can help speed it up by avoiding trigger foods that lead to gas. Consider cutting down on:

carbonated beverages
dairy products
cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower
garlic
spinach
potatoes
beans and other high-fiber foods, which you should cut only if you don’t have problems with constipation

The way you eat can also make gas worse. Try eating smaller meals and eating slowly to avoid swallowing air. If changing your eating habits doesn’t help, talk to your doctor about adding over-the-counter (OTC) gas relief products. Don’t take any supplements or herbs without checking with a doctor first.

Heartburn

Heartburn occurs when stomach acids leak back into the esophagus. Also called acid reflux, heartburn actually doesn’t affect the heart. Instead, you might feel an uncomfortable burning sensation in your throat and chest shortly after you eat.

Many foods can contribute to heartburn. Even if you didn’t experience acid reflux before pregnancy, you might consider avoiding:

greasy, fatty, and fried foods
spicy foods
garlic
onions
caffeine

Eating large meals and eating before lying down can also lead to heartburn. Elevate your pillow during bedtime to help prevent heartburn at night. Call your doctor if you have heartburn frequently, at least twice per week. They may recommend OTC antacids for relief.

When to see a doctor

Mild digestive disruptions are normal during the second trimester, but a few symptoms can raise red flags. Call your doctor right away if you experience:

severe diarrhea
diarrhea that lasts longer than two days
black or bloody stools
severe abdominal pain or belly cramps
gas-related pain that comes and goes every few minutes; these could actually be labor pains

Outlook

Your body goes through many changes during pregnancy, and some of these changes can be unpleasant. Related symptoms such as digestive ailments will get better after labor. Be sure to discuss any concerns or severe symptoms with your doctor.

Last medically reviewed on January 25, 2018

Parenthood
Pregnancy

How we vetted this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Common discomforts of pregnancy. (2016).
marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/common-discomforts-of-pregnancy.aspx
Eating during pregnancy. (2017).
familydoctor.org/eating-healthy-during-pregnancy
Eating right before and during pregnancy. (n.d.).
ucsfhealth.org/education/eating_right_before_and_during_pregnancy/index.html
Problems of the digestive system. (2014).
acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq120.pdf
Your digestive system and how it works. (2017).
niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/digestive-system-how-it-works

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jan 25, 2018

Kristeen Cherney, PhD

Edited By

Frank Crooks

Medically Reviewed By

Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COI

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Kristeen Cherney on January 25, 2018

The Second Trimester of Pregnancy: Constipation, Gas & Heartburn

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Kristeen Cherney on January 25, 2018

What happens in the second trimester?

Digestive issues and pregnancy

The digestive system is a complex network of organs that work together to help your body break down food and absorb nutrients. It includes your:

esophagus
stomach
liver
small intestine
mouth
anus

Nutrient absorption is always important for creating overall energy and cellular function, but these roles are even more crucial in supporting a growing fetus.

Constipation

Hormone levels can affect digestion beyond slowing down bowel movements. Bowel movements might be painful or difficult, and your belly might swell.

You may also have higher levels of iron if you’re taking prenatal vitamins. High iron levels can contribute to constipation.

Plant sources are your key to fiber, so make sure to eat plenty of fresh produce, whole grains, beans, and legumes.

Make sure you also:

avoid holding bowel movements
drink plenty of water, since sugary beverages can make constipation worse
exercise regularly to encourage movement in your bowels

Gas

A slower digestive system during the second trimester can lead to gas buildup that causes:

belly pain
cramps
burping
passing gas

You can’t change the way your digestive system works during pregnancy, but you can help speed it up by avoiding trigger foods that lead to gas. Consider cutting down on:

carbonated beverages
dairy products
cruciferous veggies such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower
garlic
spinach
potatoes
beans and other high-fiber foods, which you should cut only if you don’t have problems with constipation

Heartburn

Many foods can contribute to heartburn. Even if you didn’t experience acid reflux before pregnancy, you might consider avoiding:

greasy, fatty, and fried foods
spicy foods
garlic
onions
caffeine

When to see a doctor

Mild digestive disruptions are normal during the second trimester, but a few symptoms can raise red flags. Call your doctor right away if you experience:

severe diarrhea
diarrhea that lasts longer than two days
black or bloody stools
severe abdominal pain or belly cramps
gas-related pain that comes and goes every few minutes; these could actually be labor pains

Outlook

Last medically reviewed on January 25, 2018

Parenthood
Pregnancy

How we vetted this article:

Common discomforts of pregnancy. (2016).
marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/common-discomforts-of-pregnancy.aspx
Eating during pregnancy. (2017).
familydoctor.org/eating-healthy-during-pregnancy
Eating right before and during pregnancy. (n.d.).
ucsfhealth.org/education/eating_right_before_and_during_pregnancy/index.html
Problems of the digestive system. (2014).
acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq120.pdf
Your digestive system and how it works. (2017).
niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/digestive-system-how-it-works

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Jan 25, 2018

Kristeen Cherney, PhD

Edited By

Frank Crooks

Medically Reviewed By

Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COI

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI — By Kristeen Cherney on January 25, 2018

Manifestations of constipation in pregnant women - signs and symptoms

Co-author, editor and medical expert - Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Number of views: 53 112

Last updated: 10/21/2022

Average read time: 4 minutes

Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy. About 75% of women complain of problems with bowel movements during pregnancy. At the same time, these difficulties remain in about a third of women after childbirth.

Contents:

Detailed description of the symptoms
What can cause constipation in a pregnant woman

Our bodies constantly produce substances that stimulate bowel movements. During pregnancy, the susceptibility of the intestinal muscles to various kinds of irritants is significantly reduced. The change in the intensity of intestinal reactions is due to the fact that it has a common innervation * with the uterus, because of this, any excessive activation of peristalsis can provoke contractile activity of the uterus. This can be a threat to the child. Unfortunately, this defensive reaction has unpleasant consequences - constipation. Often they occur between 17 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.

Clinically, constipation in pregnant women is manifested by several main symptoms:

stool retention for more than 3 days and problems with passing gases, flatulence;
unpleasant feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowels;
the need to strain during bowel movements;
painful stools;
"sheep feces" (hard, dry, fragmented feces).

In the event of constipation, you should always seek medical advice, especially if you notice deterioration and pain.

Detailed description of symptoms

Constipation is characterized by decreased stool frequency. It happens that a pregnant woman manages to empty her intestines only once a week or less. The consistency of feces changes, discomfort and pain in the abdomen (often in its left half), there is a feeling of dissatisfaction after the stool.

Atonic constipation is characterized by very painful defecation, which occurs with great difficulty. Due to microscopic tears of the mucous membrane of the anus, streaks of blood may appear on the surface of the feces. Spasmodic constipation is characterized by fragmented stools ("sheep feces"). This condition is often accompanied by flatulence, a feeling of pressure, expansion, spasmodic pains in the abdomen. With prolonged constipation, there may be a feeling of lethargy, fatigue, a significant decrease in efficiency.

Pain in a pregnant woman occurs for no apparent reason or may be the result of excitement or physical exertion. Attacks of acute pain or exacerbation of constant discomfort, as a rule, are associated with negative emotions. The pain can be of varying strength, for example, in some cases it radiates to the lower back, leg, anus, and even the genitals. In some pregnant women, along with abdominal pain, there is a burning sensation in the rectum and itching in the anus. Nausea, bitterness in the mouth are often noted; passing gases is difficult.

Back to content

What constipation can cause in a pregnant woman

Feces in the rectum, which a pregnant woman cannot get rid of for a long time, bring her considerable discomfort. However, these are not the only consequences of constipation.

The large intestine mucosa is characterized by absorptive capacity; in case of constipation, not only water is absorbed into the blood, but also various toxic metabolic products. Intoxication of the woman and the fetus can lead to negative consequences and disrupt the development of the child in the future.
Due to overflowing with dense feces, the rectum presses on the uterus, which leads to irritation. Despite the fact that the sensitivity of the uterus during pregnancy is reduced, there is a certain risk of increased uterine tone and, as a result, premature birth.
With constipation, the intestines press on the uterus and pelvic vessels, which disrupts the outflow of blood from them. For this reason, hemorrhoids can occur, which is manifested by the appearance of blood in the stool.

Constipation in a pregnant woman is a serious problem. To solve it, contact your doctor.

*Innervation - the supply of organs and tissues with nerve fibers, which ensures their connection with the central nervous system (CNS).

Back to Contents

The information in this article is for reference only and does not replace professional medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment, contact a qualified specialist.

MICROLAX® during pregnancy - is it possible to use microclysters for pregnant women

Co-author, editor and medical expert - Klimovich Elina Valerievna.

Views: 116 584

Last update date: 21.10.2022 G.

Average Reading time: 7 minutes

The main symptoms of constipation during pregnancy
causes during pregnancy
Why is it important to use laxatives in time during pregnancy?
Is MICROLAX ^® suitable for pregnant women?
Benefits of using MICROLAX ^® during pregnancy
How to use MICROLAX ^® during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, many women have difficulty defecation. The constant discomfort associated with stool retention can seriously overshadow the happy waiting time for the baby. Often, the expectant mother does not attach much importance to recurrent constipation or considers them a natural phenomenon that you just need to endure. And some women are forced to put up with discomfort, because they are sure that there are no safe laxatives for pregnant women. However, this is fundamentally wrong. When constipation occurs, it is important to inform the doctor about this problem in a timely manner. The specialist will select a comprehensive treatment and prescribe modern preparations for bowel cleansing with an optimal safety profile, for example, MICROLAX ^®.

Up to contents

Main symptoms of constipation during pregnancy

Constipation in a pregnant woman is indicated by a decrease in the number of bowel movements: bowel cleansing occurs less than 3 times a week. A deviation from the norm is considered to be a delay in feces for more than 2 days. Violation of the frequency of bowel movements is often accompanied by other symptoms. The feces that accumulate in the intestines become hard and dry. Going to the toilet requires a lot of straining. Dense feces can injure the anus, then defecation will be accompanied by pain. In addition, with constipation, a pregnant woman may be disturbed by a feeling of fullness and blockage in the rectum. Often, even going to the toilet does not bring relief: after a bowel movement, there is a feeling that the intestines have not been completely cleansed. Often, constipation is accompanied by flatulence, bloating.

Up to content

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

Hormonal changes. In the early stages of pregnancy, the balance of hormones in a woman's body actively changes, in particular, the level of progesterone increases. It reduces the tone of the muscles of the small pelvis: this is important so that the fertilized egg can gain a foothold in the uterus. This action of progesterone also gives a side effect. The hormone slows down the digestive tract and reduces intestinal motility. Very often because of this, constipation occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Decreased physical activity. Many women, having learned that they are expecting a child, give up an active lifestyle and sports. To a certain extent, this is justified, since serious physical exertion can be the cause of miscarriage. As the fetus develops, the outlines of the figure and body weight of the woman change, and for natural reasons it becomes difficult for her to actively move. Hypodynamia leads to a decrease in intestinal tone, which contributes to the development of constipation.

Taking certain drugs. For normal development, the fetus needs vitamins and microelements, so pregnant women are often prescribed medications containing these beneficial substances. Some of these drugs have a fixing property. First of all, these are products with a high content of calcium and iron.

Fluid deficiency in the body. In late pregnancy, many women experience swelling of the face, legs and arms. Because of this, expectant mothers try to drink less during the day and reduce the consumption of juicy fruits and vegetables. Lack of fluid and fiber leads to compaction of feces and difficulty in emptying the intestines.

Pressure from an enlarged uterus. During pregnancy, there is a displacement of the abdominal organs. The uterus takes up more and more space and compresses the surrounding tissues. This can lead to decreased sensitivity and intestinal motility. As a result, constipation occurs. In the later stages, shortly before childbirth, the lowered head of the fetus can also squeeze the intestines.

Back to Contents

Why is it so important to use laxatives during pregnancy?

Constipation can negatively affect the health of the expectant mother and her baby. Violation of the frequency of bowel movements in some cases can cause inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs and an imbalance in the intestinal microflora. The consequences of constipation in the later stages are especially undesirable. A rectum full of feces can increase the tone of the uterus. This, like too much straining during a bowel movement, can provoke premature birth. That is why it is important for a pregnant woman to cleanse the intestines in a timely manner, if necessary, using laxatives approved by the doctor for use.

Back to Contents

Is MICROLAX
^® suitable for pregnant women?
According to the instructions for medical use, it is allowed to use MICROLAX ^® during pregnancy ¹ . This modern laxative in the format of a disposable microclyster softens dense fecal masses in the rectum and does not affect other organs of the digestive system and small pelvis. The active components of the drug are practically not absorbed into the systemic circulation and do not cause uterine contractions. MICROLAX ^® can be used in any trimester of pregnancy, after consulting a doctor.

Back to content

Benefits of using MICROLAX
^® during pregnancy
Effect of the drug. The effect of MICROLAX ^® can begin as early as 5-15 minutes ² after application, unlike oral medications, which can take effect at the most inopportune moment.

Hygienic packaging. Micro enema MICROLAX ^® is intended for single use. It is completely ready for use and does not require preliminary antiseptic treatment.

Easy application. When using MICROLAX ^®, a pregnant woman does not need to individually select the dosage. Microclyster contains the optimal amount of the drug for a single use. The flexible applicator tip allows you to safely and conveniently inject the laxative into the rectum.

Top of page

How to use MICROLAX
^® during pregnancy?

Take the tube and break off the seal on the applicator tip.
Learn more

How to set up an annuity for a child

When do they induce labor

My baby struggles to poop

What does it mean to induce labor

How to stop child from picking nails

How does a child get kawasaki disease

Headache first week of pregnancy

How many calories child need

How can a pregnancy be terminated

When do babies sleep patterns change

Baby stuck in fallopian tubes