Why do I get constipated during pregnancy?

Constipation hits around half of pregnant women, and progesterone is the main driver: it relaxes smooth muscle everywhere, including the bowel, so transit slows and stools dry out. Iron supplements - routinely recommended in pregnancy - are the second big cause, and later on, the growing uterus crowds the bowel and slows things further. The NHS lists constipation among the most common pregnancy complaints. Safe relief starts with the boring proven trio: fiber - fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and prunes or kiwi, which have real evidence - fluids, since fiber without water makes things worse, and daily movement, even walking. Toilet mechanics help too: feet on a small stool to raise the knees, and never straining or delaying the urge. If iron tablets are the clear trigger, tell your provider rather than stopping them - different formulations are gentler, and some women manage with alternate dosing. Laxatives exist that are considered safe in pregnancy, but take them only on provider or pharmacist advice. When to call: constipation with severe abdominal pain or swelling, blood in the stool, no bowel movement for a week despite measures, or vomiting - and hemorrhoids that thrombose or bleed heavily deserve a mention too. Untreated straining is how pregnancy hemorrhoids get worse, so fixing the constipation protects both ends of the problem. Pymander is a free AI doctor, 24/7 by text. Describe your routine and symptoms, and it can help you build a safe plan.