Maternal Health

Constipation During Pregnancy

Medically reviewed by Dr. Lisa Okafor, MD, FACOG · Board-Certified OB-GYN

Content reviewed against published ACOG, NIH, March of Dimes guidelines

Last reviewed: May 2026

Your health matters just as much as your baby's. If you are dealing with constipation during pregnancy, here is what you need to know.

The short answer

Key takeaways

Constipation affects up to 40% of pregnant people and is caused by the hormone progesterone slowing digestive transit, iron supplements, a growing uterus pressing on the intestines, and reduced physical activity. It can be managed with increased fiber, fluids, and gentle exercise.
Usually normal when: Having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain
Call your doctor if: You have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction
Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below

“About 1 in 8 women experience symptoms of postpartum depression. If you have symptoms of depression that last longer than 2 weeks, tell your health care provider.”

— Depression During and After Pregnancy, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Parents everywhere have the same worry. You are doing the right thing by looking into it.

What Parents Should Know

According to ACOG, NIH, March of Dimes guidelines, constipation affects up to 40% of pregnant people and is caused by the hormone progesterone slowing digestive transit, iron supplements, a growing uterus pressing on the intestines, and reduced physical activity. It can be managed with increased fiber, fluids, and gentle exercise. At First trimester, constipation may begin early due to rising progesterone levels and prenatal vitamins containing iron. Eating high-fiber foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), drinking plenty of water, and staying active can help. If your prenatal vitamin seems to worsen constipation, ask your provider about switching to a different formula. It is generally considered normal when having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction.

Sources: [1], [2], [3]

Normal vs. Concerning

Usually Normal

Worth Discussing

Having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain

You have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction

Stools are harder than normal but you can still pass them

You notice blood in your stool that is more than a small amount from hemorrhoids

Constipation improves with increased fiber, fluids, and activity

You have not had a bowel movement in more than 3-4 days despite trying home remedies

Symptoms began with pregnancy or with starting iron supplements

You have significant abdominal bloating or cramping from constipation

By Age

What to expect by age

First trimester

Constipation may begin early due to rising progesterone levels and prenatal vitamins containing iron. Eating high-fiber foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), drinking plenty of water, and staying active can help. If your prenatal vitamin seems to worsen constipation, ask your provider about switching to a different formula.

Second trimester

Constipation often continues or worsens as the uterus grows. Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily and at least 8-10 glasses of water. Prune juice and psyllium-based fiber supplements are generally safe. Stool softeners like docusate sodium may be recommended by your provider if diet changes are not enough.

Third trimester

The growing uterus puts additional pressure on the intestines, potentially worsening constipation. Continuing fiber-rich foods, staying hydrated, and gentle daily exercise like walking can help. Avoid straining during bowel movements, as this can worsen hemorrhoids. Talk to your provider before using any laxative.

Postpartum

Constipation is common after delivery, especially after a cesarean section or if you took pain medications. Stool softeners are commonly recommended postpartum. Resume fiber and fluid intake as soon as you can. Your first postpartum bowel movement may be uncomfortable but is important - do not delay it.

What to Tell Your Pediatrician

Describe when you first noticed constipation during pregnancy and how it has changed over time.
Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
Mention if you have not had a bowel movement in more than 3-4 days despite trying home remedies.
Mention if you have significant abdominal bloating or cramping from constipation.
Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

What Should You Do?

When to take action

Probably normal when...

Having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain
Stools are harder than normal but you can still pass them
Constipation improves with increased fiber, fluids, and activity
Symptoms began with pregnancy or with starting iron supplements

Mention at your next visit when...

You have not had a bowel movement in more than 3-4 days despite trying home remedies
You have significant abdominal bloating or cramping from constipation
You are developing hemorrhoids or anal fissures from straining

Act now when...

You have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction
You notice blood in your stool that is more than a small amount from hemorrhoids

What You Can Do at Home

Keep track of when you notice constipation during pregnancy — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
Remember that having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain — this is generally within the range of normal.
At First trimester, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
Prioritize your own rest and nutrition. Accept help when offered, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction.

Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that affect up to 35% of pregnant people. They are caused by increased blood volume, pressure from the growing uterus, constipation, and straining. While uncomfortable, they are very common and usually treatable with conservative measures.

Severe Heartburn and GERD in Pregnancy

Heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux) is extremely common in pregnancy, affecting up to 80% of pregnant people. It is caused by the hormone progesterone relaxing the valve between the stomach and esophagus, and by the growing uterus pushing up against the stomach. While very uncomfortable, it is not harmful to you or your baby.

Guide

Postpartum Recovery Guide

Week-by-week postpartum recovery timeline and warning signs.

Milestone

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Guide

When to Call the Doctor

General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.

Frequently asked questions

Is constipation during pregnancy normal?

When should I call the doctor about constipation during pregnancy?

You have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction You notice blood in your stool that is more than a small amount from hemorrhoids

When is constipation during pregnancy normal?

Having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain Stools are harder than normal but you can still pass them Constipation improves with increased fiber, fluids, and activity

What causes constipation during pregnancy?

Constipation affects up to 40% of pregnant people and is caused by the hormone progesterone slowing digestive transit, iron supplements, a growing uterus pressing on the intestines, and reduced physical activity. It can be managed with increased fiber, fluids, and gentle exercise. Common explanations include: Having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain. Stools are harder than normal but you can still pass them.

What should I mention to my pediatrician about constipation during pregnancy?

You should mention constipation during pregnancy at your next visit if: You have not had a bowel movement in more than 3-4 days despite trying home remedies. You have significant abdominal bloating or cramping from constipation. You are developing hemorrhoids or anal fissures from straining.

Is constipation during pregnancy normal at First trimester?

Is constipation during pregnancy normal at Second trimester?

Should I go to the ER for constipation during pregnancy?

Seek emergency care if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction, or if you notice blood in your stool that is more than a small amount from hemorrhoids. When in doubt, call your pediatrician's after-hours line for guidance.

Does constipation during pregnancy go away on its own?

In many cases, constipation during pregnancy resolves on its own, especially when having fewer bowel movements than usual but no significant pain. By Postpartum, constipation is common after delivery, especially after a cesarean section or if you took pain medications. Stool softeners are commonly recommended postpartum. Resume fiber and fluid intake as soon as you can. Your first postpartum bowel movement may be uncomfortable but is important - do not delay it.

ACOG NIH MARCH OF DIMES

References

[1]American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Problems of the Digestive System. ACOG FAQ, 2022. ACOG
[2]National Library of Medicine. Constipation in Pregnancy. StatPearls, 2023. NIH
[3]March of Dimes. Common Discomforts of Pregnancy. March of Dimes, 2023. March of Dimes

Doctor Visit Checklist

Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Constipation During Pregnancy.

Things to mention

Describe when you first noticed constipation during pregnancy and how it has changed over time.
Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
Mention if you have not had a bowel movement in more than 3-4 days despite trying home remedies.
Mention if you have significant abdominal bloating or cramping from constipation.
Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

Observations to share

You have not had a bowel movement in more than 3-4 days despite trying home remedies
You have significant abdominal bloating or cramping from constipation
You are developing hemorrhoids or anal fissures from straining

Urgent signs to report immediately

You have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction
You notice blood in your stool that is more than a small amount from hemorrhoids

My notes

From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

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Bottom line

Most cases of constipation during pregnancy are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if you have severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or inability to pass gas, which could suggest a bowel obstruction.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.

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