Constipation
What:
- straining, lumpy, hard stools
- incomplete evacuation
- rectal obstruction feelings
- less than 3 defecations per week
Not:
- consider other serious complications
Why/How:
- increase in progesterone - slower GI
- poor diet
- iron supplements
- increased pressure
Advice:
- increase water consumption
- Increasing dietary fibre intake and taking bran or wheat fibre supplements may relieve constipation
- Stimulating laxatives are more effective than preparations that add bulk but are more likely to cause diarrhoea or abdominal pain