Constipation during pregnancy

Constipation is a common problem in pregnancy affecting at least half of all pregnant women at some point.

Causes of constipation during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body produces more female hormones than normal. It is the job of these hormones to make sure that the pregnancy develops normally. But they also automatically slow down the woman's intestinal movements. During pregnancy the hormone ‘progesterone’ relaxes your digestive system and slows down intestinal movement which in turn causes infrequent bowel movements leaving you feeling bloated and sluggish. This can be exacerbated in cases where the woman is prescribed iron supplements.

What are the signs of constipation?

Some of the tell-tale signs include:

  • A long period between each bowel movement (i.e. days).
  • Stools are hard, which makes them difficult to pass.
  • There is a feeling that not all the stools are being passed.
  • If the stools are very hard, they may cause bleeding from the rectum.
  • Constipation can also be a cause of lower abdominal pain.
  • In extreme circumstances, a constipated bowel can result in difficulties giving birth

Keeping "regular" during Pregnancy

Some women suffer from episodes of constipation during pregnancy, especially if they are taking iron.

Prune Juice softens stools and promotes regular bowel movements because it’s naturally occurring sugars such as sorbitol help draw fluids into the intestine.
This then softens the stool and can help make you “go” thus keeping you regular.

In addition, Sunsweet Prune Juice with it’s vibrant purple color is tasty and easy to have, is a source of vitamin B6, for you and the baby.

How Much Should you Drink?

Everyone’s body is different, but start with the recommended daily serving of 120ml and see how that works for you. Sunsweet Prune Juice is suitable for all children over the age of six months, just dilute as necessary. The recommended serving for children is 75ml. For babies, just mix 30–60ml with 30–60ml cooled, boiled water.

* It is not suitable for infants under six months