How to get rid of constipation during breastfeeding?

Understanding Constipation During Breastfeeding
Constipation can be an uncomfortable and distressing experience for new mothers, particularly during the breastfeeding phase. While breast milk is generally easy to digest and often acts as a natural laxative for infants, mothers may find themselves struggling with constipation due to various factors related to postpartum recovery and dietary changes.
Causes of Constipation in Breastfeeding Mothers
Several factors contribute to constipation in breastfeeding mothers. Hormonal changes after childbirth can slow down the digestive system, while the physical demands of caring for a newborn may lead to neglecting personal health needs, including hydration and nutrition. Additionally, the increased caloric needs during breastfeeding—estimated at an additional 330 to 400 calories per day—can be challenging to meet, especially when fatigue sets in.
Moreover, dehydration is a significant contributor to constipation. Breastfeeding mothers need to double their water intake to stay hydrated, as insufficient fluid can lead to harder stools and difficulty in bowel movements.
Dietary Adjustments
One of the most effective ways to combat constipation is through dietary changes. Incorporating high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can significantly improve bowel regularity. The average adult requires about 25 grams of fiber daily, yet many consume only around 15 grams. Foods like prunes are particularly beneficial; studies suggest that eating two or three prunes can be as effective as some laxatives.
Additionally, some mothers may find that certain foods exacerbate constipation. For instance, eliminating dairy products from the diet has been suggested as a potential remedy, especially if there is a known association between dairy and constipation in their infants.
Hydration is Key
Staying hydrated is crucial. Mothers should aim to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, particularly water, to help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. Keeping a water bottle nearby can serve as a reminder to drink more frequently.
Safe Use of Laxatives
In cases where dietary changes and hydration do not alleviate constipation, some mothers may consider the use of laxatives. It is generally recommended to opt for osmotic or bulk laxatives as a first line of treatment, as these are safer during breastfeeding compared to stimulant laxatives. Bulk laxatives can be particularly effective for mothers experiencing small, hard stools, although they may take up to 72 hours to show results.
Physical Activity and Relaxation Techniques
Incorporating light physical activity can also help stimulate bowel movements. Simple exercises, such as walking or postpartum yoga, can promote digestive health. Additionally, relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or gentle stretching, can alleviate stress, which is often a contributing factor to constipation.
Conclusion
Constipation during breastfeeding is a common issue that can be managed effectively through a combination of dietary adjustments, increased hydration, and, if necessary, the careful use of laxatives. By prioritizing their health and well-being, breastfeeding mothers can navigate this challenging phase with greater ease, ensuring both they and their babies remain healthy and comfortable.

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 should a breastfeeding mother eat to avoid constipation in a baby?

Constipation while breastfeeding remedies
Here are some tips to prevent and treat constipation: Add more fiber to their diet if your baby’s started solid foods, Switch from rice cereal to barley, which has more fiber. When you start introducing fruits and vegetables, try high-fiber ones like pureed prunes and peas.

What can I drink for constipation while breastfeeding?

Drink lots of water
Breastfeeding can actually be a sneaky culprit for postpartum constipation. When you’re nursing, some of the water that would normally go straight to your colon—to help stool keep moving—gets used for milk production.

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.

Why am I constipated while breastfeeding?

Strong painkillers given after birth can also cause constipation. Busy new mothers sometimes forget to eat and drink well, so be sure to have plenty of fruit and vegetables and increase fluid intake while breastfeeding. A glass of water at every breastfeed is a good idea.

What is the best drink to flush your bowels?

Lemon water and honey: Mix fresh lemon juice, one teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt with warm water and drink on an empty stomach in the morning. Juices and smoothies: These include fruit and vegetable juice fasts and cleanses. Juices made of apples, lemons, and aloe vera help in colon cleansing.

How can I stimulate my baby to poop?

Sometimes giving your baby a warm bath to relax them or exercising their legs, like riding a bicycle, will help stimulate the bowels to move. If it has been a few days since your baby has pooped and the juice or pureed food has not worked, then you can try a glycerin suppository. Place your baby on their back.

What foods can cause constipation in breastfed babies?

What Causes Constipation in Babies?

• Low fiber diet or a recent change in the diet.
• Introduction of solid foods or new foods.
• Excessive amounts of yogurt, cheese and milk.
• Foods such as bananas, applesauce, cereals, breads, pasta and white potatoes can cause constipation or worsen it.

How do you relieve constipation in breastfed babies?

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.

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.