Once you reach the last month of pregnancy, your body undergoes various drastic physical changes. The majority of females experience some degree of constipation in the 9th month of pregnancy. Hormonal shifts, increasing weight on the stomach and decreased activity may be among the causes. Digestion at this time is typically very slow, which results in difficult and painful bowel movements.
A positive aspect is that 9th-month pregnancy constipation can be uncomfortable, but it is perfectly normal and can be treated through a few lifestyle changes, dietary habits and a doctor's guidance.
Several factors combine to cause constipation in late pregnancy. Being informed of them will help you manage the symptoms better.
Progesterone levels remain high during the last trimester. This hormone relaxes smooth muscles in the digestive tract, slowing down bowel movements and making stools harder to pass.
By the ninth month, your uterus is at its largest. It presses against the intestines and rectum, reducing room for smooth digestion, hence causing stool buildup.
Prenatal supplements, especially iron or calcium, can harden stools. Many women notice constipation soon after starting or increasing supplement dosage.
Fatigue, heaviness and discomfort at this stage can limit movement; low activity levels directly affect digestion and bowel regularity.
Your body needs more water during pregnancy. Not drinking enough fluids dries out stools, making them rough and difficult to pass.
Discomfort can result from the stress of labour, delivery or the baby's arrival. Stress hormones might slow bowel function and exacerbate constipation.
Typical symptoms are:
● Fewer stools are passed, usually fewer than three times a week.
● Stools that are hard, lumpy or dry
● Bloating or tightness in the abdomen
● Straining or difficulty during bowel movements
● The sensation of not having fully evacuated
● Mild cramps (not to be confused with rhythmic labour contractions)
These remedies are all-natural, mild and suitable for use during pregnancy, but it is still important to check with your physician first.
A diet high in fibre makes your stool softer and helps it pass through the bowel normally. Good sources of fibre include:
● Whole grains are brown rice, oats and millets.
● Legumes, lentils and beans
● Fruits with a high fibre content (papaya, pear, banana, guava)
● Vegetables, including spinach, carrots, beets and broccoli
Cut out foods made with refined flour, bakery products and packaged snacks, as they slow down digestion.
Water is the most important factor in preventing and treating constipation.
● Drink 8-10 glasses of water every day.
● Drinking warm water with lemon every morning may have a digestive-stimulating effect.
● Both coconut water and buttermilk are good for gut health and hydration.
Physical activities can stimulate the movement of the intestines. You might consider:
● Taking short walks of 10 to 15 minutes
● Doing gentle stretches from prenatal yoga
● Performing light exercises as per the instructions of a physiotherapist
● Avoid heavy workouts and always get your doctor's approval before any new activity.
● Training the body can help decrease constipation.
● Go to the bathroom at the same time every day.
● Never suppress the urge.
● Elevate your feet with a footstool to improve posture and ease stool passage.
● Give yourself enough time and don't hurry.
Natural options can help keep digestion smooth. These include:
● Prunes or prune juice
● Figs
● Soaked raisins
● Warm milk with 1 teaspoon of ghee before bed (classic remedy known to alleviate constipation)
● Consume seeds in moderation to avoid bloating.
Avoiding these products can help prevent worsening of constipation:
● Fried foods, greasy or processed foods
● Too much caffeine or tea
● White bread, white rice and pasta
● Excessive dairy products (if these produce gas or bloating)
● Iron supplements on an empty stomach
Speak to your doctor for alternate formulations or stool softeners if needed.
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If constipation persists, your doctor can suggest safe medical options.
Docusate sodium is often prescribed, but should be used only under supervision.
Psyllium husk or fibre supplements may be taken to add bulk and softness to the stool. ISABGOL (psyllium husk)
These can stimulate contractions or discomfort and should be used only if specifically so advised by your gynaecologist.
Never self-medicate in the ninth month of pregnancy.
Consult your gynaecologist if:
● Constipation persists for more than 3–4 days
● You have rectal bleeding.
● There is severe abdominal pain.
● You feel pressure or cramps that feel like early labour.
● You are experiencing nausea, vomiting or persistent bloating.
● You cannot pass stool even after trying home remedies.
These may be signs of an underlying condition that necessitates medical attention.
Simple daily habits can reduce constipation.
● Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
● Perform light movement to stay active.
● Include probiotics or fermented foods like curd.
● Practice deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress.
● Avoid long periods of sitting or lying down.
● Add fibre to your meals consistently.
Issues such as 9th-month pregnancy constipation are closely monitored at Cloudnine. At Cloudnine Hospitals, you would find dedicated prenatal care, highly experienced obstetricians and personalised assessments that ensure your comfort and safety. Their team provides nutritional counselling, symptom evaluation and round-the-clock support so you can feel assured and informed in the last weeks of pregnancy. With well-equipped facilities and compassionate care, Cloudnine will guide you through the challenges of the late stages of pregnancy.
Constipation in the ninth month of pregnancy is very common; however, it doesn't necessarily have to compromise comfort or peace of mind. Knowing the causes, making conscious dietary and routine changes, remaining hydrated and seeking medical advice as necessary will help manage symptoms safely and professionally.
Listening to your body's signs and maintaining proper daily habits offer smooth digestion and comfort during pregnancy.
Yes, it is very common due to hormonal changes, less activity and the pressure of a growing uterus.
Not necessarily. Though digestive changes can start before labour, constipation in itself is not a sign of labour.
Hydration, fibrous foods, plenty of warm water, gentle walks and stool softeners approved by the doctor are quite helpful.
No, constipation does not harm the baby. However, you should see a doctor to check for severe or prolonged symptoms to make sure that you are well.
