What are the causes of constipation after childbirth?

Question

Hello doctor,

My cousin has been experiencing persistent and severe constipation for several months, which is significantly affecting her daily life. She is 33 years old and gave birth about seven months ago. Since her delivery, her bowel movements have become irregular, and she frequently experiences bloating, abdominal cramps, and general discomfort.

As she is currently breastfeeding, she is understandably cautious about taking any medications without knowing whether they are safe for her baby. We are wondering if hormonal changes following pregnancy could be contributing to her symptoms. Additionally, is there a known connection between constipation and menstrual irregularities? She has observed that her menstrual periods tend to become more painful and heavy when her constipation worsens.

She also has an intrauterine device (IUD) and is concerned whether it might be exacerbating her digestive symptoms. Could this be a contributing factor?

We are curious whether lifestyle and dietary changes alone can effectively manage this issue, or if medical treatment might be necessary. If medication is needed, what are the safest laxative options for someone who is breastfeeding?

Lastly, could long-term constipation have any implications for fertility or affect future pregnancies?

Thank you

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Your cousin’s symptoms are quite common after pregnancy, and, understandably, she is feeling distressed. The good news is that this condition is often manageable with the right approach. Let us explore some ways to support her, keeping in mind that a personalized treatment plan through an in-person medical review is always best.

Possible causes: Several factors may be contributing to her constipation:

Hormonal changes after childbirth can slow down bowel movements.
Reduced physical activity, low fluid or fiber intake, and the use of iron or calcium supplements can further exacerbate the issue.
Hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle can also worsen bloating and constipation.

Management and treatment: In many cases, symptoms improve significantly with lifestyle and dietary adjustments:

Ensure adequate hydration, aim for two to three liters of water daily.
Increase intake of fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and flax seeds.
Incorporate regular physical activity, such as brisk walking.
Try to establish a consistent daily bowel routine, ideally after meals.
If necessary, safe, mild laxatives that are compatible with breastfeeding may be used under medical supervision.

Factors to consider:

Avoid long-term use of stimulant laxatives, as they may lead to dependency.
Encourage her to follow up with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues and to receive a tailored treatment plan.

Please let me know if there are any additional concerns or symptoms you would like to discuss.

 I hope this helps.

Kindly revert if there are any queries.

Thank you.