Constipation
Higher progesterone levels in pregnant women can cause constipation because the hormone causes the digestive system to slow down. Therefore, the food passes slowly along the intestines. Thus, to prevent constipation, doctors recommend drinking more water, eating plenty of fiber-rich foods, and exercising.
As soon as the progesterone level rises, constipation begins as well, which is around the middle or last month of the first trimester. The situation could get worse during the duration of the pregnancy.
Constipation starts as early as progesterone levels rise, around the second to the third month of pregnancy. It may get worse as pregnancy progresses and the uterus grows. Constipation inconveniences a pregnant woman, but it has a positive side. The slow movement of the food along the digestive tract allows more time for the body to absorb the nutrients into the bloodstream and give more to the growing baby. According to doctors, the expansion of the uterus can also cause constipation. As the uterus grows, it takes up more space in the belly, pressing on the bowel.
But some women only experience constipation during the last trimester, as the baby grows heavier. Unfortunately, some women continue to be constipated three months after giving birth.
