What can a breastfeeding mom take for constipation?

Understanding Constipation in Breastfeeding Moms
Constipation can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for many new mothers, particularly those who are breastfeeding. The postpartum period brings about numerous changes in a woman’s body, and constipation is a common issue that can arise due to hormonal shifts, dietary changes, and the physical demands of caring for a newborn.
Dietary Adjustments
One of the most effective ways for breastfeeding mothers to alleviate constipation is through dietary modifications. Increasing fiber intake is crucial. Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help promote regular bowel movements. For instance, incorporating foods like oats, beans, and leafy greens can significantly improve digestive health.
Additionally, staying hydrated is essential. Breastfeeding requires increased fluid intake—about 330 to 400 extra calories and doubling water consumption can help prevent dehydration, which is a common contributor to constipation. Drinking plenty of water, herbal teas, and consuming high-water-content foods like cucumbers and watermelon can aid in maintaining hydration levels.
Safe Over-the-Counter Options
If dietary changes alone do not provide relief, breastfeeding mothers may consider certain over-the-counter laxatives. However, it is vital to choose options that are safe for nursing. Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, are generally considered safe and can help ease the passage of stool without causing cramping.
Mothers should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication to ensure it is appropriate for their specific situation and will not affect their breast milk.
Lifestyle Changes
Incorporating regular physical activity can also help alleviate constipation. Simple exercises, such as walking or postpartum yoga, can stimulate bowel function and improve overall digestive health. Additionally, establishing a routine for bathroom visits can encourage regularity, as the body often responds well to consistent habits.
When to Seek Help
While many cases of postpartum constipation can be managed with lifestyle and dietary changes, it is important for mothers to be aware of when to seek medical advice. If constipation persists despite these interventions, or if it is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, or other concerning symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can effectively manage constipation through a combination of dietary adjustments, hydration, safe over-the-counter options, and lifestyle changes. By prioritizing their health and well-being, new mothers can navigate this common postpartum challenge with greater ease.

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.

What can I give my mom for constipation?

Consider using a mild laxative such as milk of magnesia along with a stool softener. The laxative helps the bowel to move the stool out of the body. The stool softener draws water into the bowel, making the stool softer and easier to pass. Both can be bought without a prescription.

How to treat constipation 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.

Can I take Miralax while breastfeeding?

MiraLAX is a brand-name powder prescribed to help treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). MiraLAX is safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How do you treat postpartum constipation?

High‐fibre foods such as fruits and vegetables can help to relieve symptoms and prevent constipation in the postpartum period (Liu 2009). Fibre is indigestible, adds bulk to the stools and stimulates bowel movements, and it also improves digestion and prevents constipation by softening the stools (Balch 2010).

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.

Can I take MiraLAX while breastfeeding?

MiraLAX is a brand-name powder prescribed to help treat constipation. It contains the active ingredient polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). MiraLAX is safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Can breastfeeding cause constipation in the mother?

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 can I take for constipation while breastfeeding?

Stimulant laxatives

• Bisacodyl. Show. Preferred choice. Bisacodyl can be used during breastfeeding.
• Docusate. Show. Preferred choice. Docusate can be used during breastfeeding.
• Glycerol suppositories. Show. Preferred choice.
• Senna. Show. Preferred choice.
• Sodium picosulfate. Show. Preferred choice.

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.