How do you treat constipation while breastfeeding?

Understanding and Treating Constipation While Breastfeeding
Constipation can be a challenging issue for new mothers, particularly during the postpartum period when hormonal changes and lifestyle adjustments come into play. While breastfeeding is generally associated with a healthy digestive process for both mothers and babies, some breastfeeding mothers may experience constipation. Understanding the causes and effective treatments can help alleviate this discomfort.
Causes of Constipation in Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding requires additional caloric intake—approximately 330 to 400 extra calories per day—and significantly increased hydration. If a mother does not meet these nutritional needs, she may become dehydrated, which can contribute to constipation. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations after childbirth can slow down the digestive system, leading to constipation.
Dietary Adjustments
One of the most effective ways to combat constipation is through dietary changes. Incorporating high-fiber foods into the diet is crucial. Foods such as beans, bran cereals, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help promote regular bowel movements. The average adult should aim for about 25 grams of fiber daily, but many fall short, consuming only around 15 grams.
Moreover, staying hydrated is essential. Increasing water intake can help soften stool and facilitate easier passage. Experts recommend that breastfeeding mothers drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration and its associated digestive issues.
Physical Activity
Engaging in regular physical activity can also aid in relieving constipation. Gentle exercises, such as walking or postpartum yoga, can stimulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive health. Even simple movements, like lying down and gently moving the legs, can help relieve constipation in both mothers and their babies.
When to Seek Help
While constipation can often be managed with dietary and lifestyle changes, it is important for breastfeeding mothers to consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist. This is particularly crucial if there are accompanying symptoms such as severe abdominal pain or blood in the stool, as these could indicate more serious conditions.
Conclusion
Constipation during breastfeeding is not uncommon, but it can be effectively managed through a combination of dietary adjustments, increased hydration, and physical activity. By prioritizing nutrition and self-care, breastfeeding mothers can alleviate discomfort and promote better digestive health for themselves and their babies. If issues persist, seeking professional advice is always a prudent step.

What helps constipation while breastfeeding?

Exercise – Walking, swimming, cycling, yoga will ease constipation and make you feel healthier. Try to be active and get some exercise every day. Fluids – Pregnant and breastfeeding women need to increase their fluid intake, so drink at least 7-8 glasses/day and even more in hot or humid weather.

What not to do when constipated?

Do this: Cut down on fast food, chips, hot dogs, and some microwave dinners.

1. Add fiber too fast. Eating fiber from fruits, vegetables, and other foods is really important.
2. Drink alcohol.
3. Double down on dairy.
4. Skip your workout.
5. Rely on laxatives.

How to immediately soften stool?

Home remedies include increasing your fiber intake or taking a laxative, using a suppository, or taking a stool softener. Trying out a squat position, doing light exercise, or performing a colonic massage may also help. A doctor can check for other conditions affecting constipation and prescribe medication to help.

How can I help my constipated breastfed baby poop?

Give your baby a warm bath to relax their bowel. Gently massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction. Make firm but gentle circular motions from the belly button outwards. Lie your baby on their back and gently move their legs backwards and forwards in a ‘bicycle’ motion.

What foods constipate babies through breast milk?

Certain foods, such as rice cereal and dairy milk, may cause constipation in babies younger than 1 year. Other possible causes of constipation in breastfed babies include: Not having enough liquids. Liquids help stool pass through the bowels smoothly.

What can a breastfeeding MoM take to poop?

Any laxative can be used during breastfeeding as most are either not absorbed or minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract leading to low or negligible levels in breast milk. Prucalopride can be used with caution whilst breastfeeding as it is excreted into breast milk in small levels.

How do I get unconstipated asap?

5 Home Remedies for Constipation

1. Eat enough fiber. “The No. 1 thing I recommend is altering your diet,” says Dr. Kalakota.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Exercise regularly.
4. Use an osmotic laxative to help soften stool.
5. Take a stimulant laxative for quicker relief.

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

Try These Tricks for Quick Bowel Movement Stimulation

• Drink coffee. Regarding drinks that make you poop, coffee is probably the first that comes to mind.
• Squat when you poop.
• Use a fiber supplement.
• Take a stimulant laxative.
• Take an osmotic laxative.
• Take a lubricant laxative.
• Try a stool softener.
• Use a suppository.

What can a breastfeeding mom take to poop?

Any laxative can be used during breastfeeding as most are either not absorbed or minimally absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract leading to low or negligible levels in breast milk. Prucalopride can be used with caution whilst breastfeeding as it is excreted into breast milk in small levels.

How to treat constipation in nursing?

Treatment typically includes a prescribed daily bowel regimen, such as oral stool softeners (e.g., docusate) and a mild stimulant laxative (e.g., sennosides). Stronger laxatives (e.g., Milk of Magnesia or bisacodyl), rectal suppositories, or enemas are implemented when oral medications are not effective.