Symptoms February 14, 2026 · 8 min read

Constipation in Pregnancy: Safe Relief Options

Pregnancy constipation is uncomfortable but treatable. Learn about safe remedies including fiber, hydration, stool softeners, and when to use laxatives.

By Nooko Team

Constipation in Pregnancy: Safe Relief Options

Constipation affects up to 40% of pregnant people, caused by pregnancy hormones slowing your digestive system, iron supplements, and your growing uterus compressing your intestines. Safe relief includes increasing fiber (25-30g daily), drinking plenty of water, regular gentle exercise, and if needed, stool softeners like docusate (Colace) or fiber supplements like psyllium. Avoid stimulant laxatives unless recommended by your provider.1

Why Pregnancy Causes Constipation

Progesterone slows digestion: This hormone relaxes smooth muscle throughout your body, including your intestines, slowing the movement of food through your digestive tract.2

Iron in prenatal vitamins: Iron supplements can cause constipation. If this is a problem, ask your provider about switching formulations or taking a stool softener.

Uterine pressure: Your growing uterus puts pressure on your intestines.

Reduced physical activity: If you’re less active due to fatigue or discomfort, this can worsen constipation.

Dehydration: Not drinking enough water makes stools harder and harder to pass.

Safe Relief Strategies

Dietary Changes

Increase fiber: Aim for 25-30 grams daily from:

  • Whole grains (oatmeal, whole wheat bread, brown rice)
  • Fruits (prunes, pears, apples with skin, berries)
  • Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, leafy greens)
  • Legumes (beans, lentils)
  • Nuts and seeds3

Prunes and prune juice: Natural laxative effect. Start with 3-4 prunes or 4 oz juice daily.

Increase fiber gradually: Sudden large increases can cause gas and bloating.

Hydration

Drink 8-12 glasses of water daily: Water softens stools and helps fiber work effectively.

Warm liquids: Warm water or herbal tea in the morning can stimulate bowel movements.

Limit caffeine: Can be dehydrating.

Physical Activity

Walk daily: Even 10-15 minutes helps stimulate bowel movements.

Prenatal yoga: Certain poses can help with constipation.

Swimming: Low-impact exercise that’s safe during pregnancy.4

Safe Medications and Supplements

Stool softeners (docusate/Colace): Safe during pregnancy. Makes stools softer and easier to pass.5

Fiber supplements:

  • Psyllium (Metamucil): Bulk-forming laxative, safe during pregnancy
  • Methylcellulose (Citrucel): Another safe option
  • Take with plenty of water

Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX): Generally safe if recommended by your provider.

Magnesium supplements: Some people find magnesium helps with constipation (also may reduce leg cramps). Check with your provider.

What to Avoid

Stimulant laxatives: Senna, bisacodyl, and castor oil should only be used if recommended by your provider. They can cause cramping and may trigger contractions.

Mineral oil: Can interfere with nutrient absorption.

Enemas: Not recommended during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed.

When to Call Your Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:6

  • Constipation lasting more than a week despite home remedies
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • No bowel movement for more than 3 days
  • Severe hemorrhoids

Preventing Constipation

Start early: Don’t wait for constipation to become severe. Begin preventive strategies early in pregnancy.

Respond to urges: Don’t ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.

Establish routine: Try to have bowel movements at the same time daily.

Consider iron formulation: If prenatal vitamins cause constipation, ask your provider about:

  • Slow-release iron
  • Lower-dose iron with separate calcium supplement
  • Alternate-day iron dosing
  • Liquid iron formulations

References

Footnotes

  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2025). “Problems of the Digestive System.” https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/problems-of-the-digestive-system ↩

  2. Bradley CS, et al. (2007). “Constipation in pregnancy: prevalence, symptoms, and risk factors.” Obstetrics & Gynecology, 110(6), 1351-1357. ↩

  3. Mayo Clinic. (2024). “Pregnancy constipation.” https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/pregnancy-constipation/faq-20058550 ↩

  4. ACOG. (2020). “Physical Activity During Pregnancy.” ↩

  5. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2024). “Over-the-Counter Medications During Pregnancy.” ↩

  6. Mayo Clinic. (2024). “Pregnancy constipation.” ↩

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