How to choose a laxative after childbirth so as not to harm the baby? Treatment and prevention of constipation after childbirth while breastfeeding the mother. Suppositories for constipation for women in labor.

Constipation in nursing mothers is a common problem. The main reason is a change in diet. The woman suffers from painful bowel movements, and bowel movements may take three or four days. At the same time, other unpleasant manifestations of this intestinal disorder are observed.

Constipation in women after childbirth can be accompanied by many unpleasant symptoms:

When a woman is constipated, her breast milk contains less enzymes that the baby needs to digest food.

As a result, similar problems may arise in the baby, so when breastfeeding it is important to avoid constipation.

Why does lactating women experience constipation?

The first weeks after the birth of a child are characterized by the healing of wounds that were received during childbirth. There may have been tears or artificial incisions in the perineum.

Women are afraid to eat fruits and vegetables, which can cause bowel problems, allergic reactions and other unpleasant symptoms in the child.

Constipation in a nursing mother is a temporary phenomenon, so it is worth being a little patient and helping to relieve the symptoms.

Treatment of constipation in nursing mothers

First, you can try to cope with the problem without using medications. Constipation in a nursing mother is sometimes easily eliminated by making lifestyle adjustments.

If your stool does not improve, you can treat constipation with medication. During breastfeeding, medications containing lactulose (for example, Duphalac) are allowed. Lactulose is not absorbed by the stomach and intestines, softens stool and forms beneficial bacteria that contribute to its natural excretion.

Glycerin suppositories can help relieve constipation. They soften stool and make intestinal motility work. If used correctly, they do not cause addiction to the body. Are safe during breastfeeding. Their action is aimed exclusively at removing feces from the intestines. It has no effect on other organs.

Candles should not be placed if there are cracks or wounds in the anus.

When breastfeeding, you should not overuse medications or harmful foods. This way you can eliminate a number of problems with stool. Constipation should be treated only under the supervision of doctors and follow their recommendations.

Folk remedies for treating constipation in nursing mothers

When breastfeeding, it is possible to treat constipation without medications.

1. You can make infusions and decoctions from prunes. Several prunes are poured with boiled water and allowed to brew for a while. The resulting infusion should be taken before meals. You can also eat several berries raw.
2. Figs are great for helping fight constipation. Pour boiled water over about 50 g of figs. Take the resulting infusion three times a day. Water can be replaced with milk.
3. Dill water helps a lot. Dill seeds (10 g) need to be poured with boiling water. Let it brew, then strain. After this, apply the decoction before meals, several times a day.
4. If you have gooseberries, you can make a decoction from them. Pour water over several berries and boil for several minutes. Then the broth needs to be filtered and cooled.

To prevent the unpleasant symptoms associated with constipation from overshadowing the joy of motherhood, nutrition should be established before the baby is born.

Constipation after childbirth occurs due to physiological or psychological factors. The first group of reasons includes:

• • compression of the intestines by an enlarged uterus;

• • decreased tone of the abdominal wall muscles;

• • action of hormones;

• • movement of the gastrointestinal tract organs to the “pre-pregnancy place”;

• diet errors.

Persistent constipation after childbirth can be caused by psychological reasons:

• • suppression of defecation due to preoccupation with the child;

• • fear of straining;

• chronic fatigue.

Treatment of postpartum constipation

Constipation after childbirth is characterized by a set of specific symptoms: pain in the abdomen or near the anus, bloating, flatulence, belching. In severe cases, women experience nausea, general weakness, nervousness and sleep disturbances.

Treatment for constipation after childbirth is extremely varied and depends on the type and causes that caused it. The most common methods for relieving symptoms:

Laxatives cause improvement in intestinal motility and, as a result, promote bowel movements. This remedy for constipation after childbirth should not be taken for several days in a row due to the body becoming accustomed to it and the lack of spontaneous bowel movements. The drugs of choice for nursing mothers are: Fortrans, Duphalac, Forlax - they do not pass into milk.

Candles after childbirth for constipation stimulate bowel movements and are a method of relieving unpleasant symptoms. The most commonly used are glycerin suppositories. Suppositories after childbirth for constipation with sutures are indicated when it is impossible to independently defecate and a large amount of feces has accumulated; they should be used with extreme caution, under the supervision of a doctor.

Enemas, acting on the rectum and causing it to empty by increasing peristalsis and diluting the stool. It is possible to use enemas with the addition of herbal decoctions, such as chamomile.

If symptoms of constipation are detected, a woman should consult a doctor to select treatment, otherwise incorrectly chosen therapy may aggravate the situation.

Do not forget that the methods listed above are not a treatment, but only relieve the symptoms of constipation. All of them are addictive and should not be used for several days in a row. Treatment should be selected by a doctor in accordance with the cause of constipation.

In the absence of defecation, but if there is a urge to do so, it will be useful to adopt a posture for bowel movement. The woman should sit completely on the toilet, place some object under her feet so that they are bent at the knee joint and are approximately at chin level. It is advisable to rest your hands on your hips with your elbows. This position is the most physiological for the act of defecation and helps its implementation.

Nutrition for a nursing mother

The most effective method of treating difficult bowel movements is a diet for constipation after childbirth. A certain set of foods will stimulate bowel movements by improving intestinal motility. Such products include:

• • Boiled beets.

• • Vegetable oil.

• • Steamed vegetables.

• • Black bread.

• • Oat bran.

• Cereals (except rice).

Meals should be frequent, about 5-6 times a day, in small portions. Constipation after childbirth during breastfeeding is stimulated by the following products:

• • Loaf.

• • Pears.

• • Wheat bran.

• • Hard cheese.

• Currants and other astringent berries and fruits.

Sample menu for a nursing mother complaining of constipation:

• • Breakfast: millet porridge, muesli and tea with milk;

• • Snack: carrot salad dressed with vegetable oil;

• • Lunch: lean meat, vegetable stew;

• • Afternoon snack: apple, apricot;

• • Dinner: fish, boiled beet salad;

• Second dinner: a glass of low-fat kefir;

If you have constipation, you should drink as much water as possible and avoid coffee and strong tea. It is necessary to exclude carbonated drinks, packaged juices, and whole milk. Fermented milk products will help stimulate bowel movements.

Treatment of constipation should be systematic; a woman should follow a certain diet, get enough sleep, and not be nervous. It will be useful to increase physical activity, which stimulates intestinal activity. Walking in the fresh air, going to the pool, special gymnastics, in particular, Kegel exercises and Microlax microenemas after childbirth help improve bowel movements.

It is always easier to prevent a disease than to cure it; this rule also applies to constipation. Prevention of difficult bowel movements comes down to following a diet and drinking regime, increased physical activity, and not ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.

Nursing mothers often suffer from constipation. Are suppositories suitable for constipation during breastfeeding or should I look for another remedy?

Causes of constipation during breastfeeding

• Physiological

Candles for constipation during breastfeeding

We have come to the point of interest: “Are suppositories acceptable for constipation while breastfeeding?” Of course they are allowed!

Rectal suppositories are more effective, they do not irritate the walls of the small intestine, they only work in the large intestine. This eliminates the risk of gastrointestinal irritation or atony due to constant exposure to laxatives.

How to choose candles

Good candles:

• Natural

Natural ingredients are always preferable. Horse chestnut fruit extract is effective for the intestines. It stimulates peristalsis and restores the natural rhythm of bowel movement.

• Fast acting

Laxatives should work quickly– constipation is better, not every other day, as laxative tablets and syrups do.

• No side effects

• Without addiction

Laxatives should not cause, otherwise the woman risks changing to laxative disease. It occurs in people who take strong oral laxatives. There is a drug that meets these requirements.

Drugs such as glycerin suppositories are generally considered safe. Nevertheless, the question of whether it is possible, and if so, how to use glycerin suppositories during breastfeeding, is relevant for every new mother.

What are glycerin suppositories

Glycerin is an organic compound related to polyols and is the simplest polyalcohol in structure. The substance is colorless and has a soft consistency. Its fatty base and ability to mix well with water have led to the widespread use of glycerin in the medical and cosmetic fields.

Once in the body, glycerin undergoes oxidation and is converted into carbon dioxide and water. This explains and confirms its absolute harmlessness. However, due to the fact that in its pure form it oxidizes extremely quickly, irritation may occur. That is why, in order to soften, glycerin is combined with either water or petroleum jelly.

The main purpose of using glycerin suppositories is to facilitate and accelerate the excretion of feces from the body. The main component is glycerin, when administered rectally, it is immediately converted into water and carbon dioxide, causing mild irritation of the intestines, which causes the urge to defecate. In addition to stimulating intestinal perilstatics, suppositories provide softening of stool. The result is that the intestines are gently cleansed, pressure and swelling in the hemorrhoidal veins are reduced.

For women with lactation, this is an ideal remedy, since glycerin is not a toxic substance and does not enter the bloodstream and, accordingly, into breast milk

Use after childbirth

Due to safety reasons, nursing mothers are prescribed glycerin suppositories if they have hemorrhoids along with constipation. Of course, if a woman who has given birth experiences constipation for more than 2-3 days, it is unlikely that she will be able to do without a laxative or an enema. However, for short-term constipation, the most effective and simple remedy is glycerin-based suppositories. The drug promotes mild stimulation of bowel movements.

The use of glycerin suppositories is extremely simple: the suppository is removed from the package and inserted into the rectum. According to doctors, it is most effective to carry out the procedure about half an hour after a meal, and even better - after breakfast, especially considering that after another half an hour you will need to empty your bowels.

Glycerin suppositories: side effects

So, the feasibility and safety of using glycerin-based suppositories by women during breastfeeding is completely determined.

But it is worth considering that this is an extremely simple and effective remedy, however, it has side effects and can cause negative reactions:

• Unpleasant or painful sensations in the anal area.
• Addiction.
• Presence of contraindications.

Sometimes women with hypersensitivity when using glycerin suppositories experience pain or burning sensations in the anus, which are associated with the strong irritating effect of the drug on the intestinal walls.

You can get rid of these consequences with the help of microenemas based on vegetable oil.

Long-term use of glycerin suppositories causes addiction to the body. As a result, after some time, difficulties arise with defecation without the use of the drug

Glycerin suppositories, despite their safety, still have contraindications for use.

In particular:

• hemorrhoids in acute form;
• paraproctitis;
• rectal cancer;
• individual intolerance.

Thus, glycerin suppositories are an invaluable assistant for breastfeeding women who are faced with the problem of constipation. However, as with any drug, the presence of contraindications and side effects should be taken into account before using them.

Constipation after childbirth while breastfeeding is a fairly common pathology that many new mothers feel embarrassed about. They hope that the problem will solve itself, which, unfortunately, is far from the case. You need to be as attentive as possible to your health, especially during this difficult period of recovery after childbirth.

Today we invite you to discuss this delicate issue in as much detail as possible. Let's start with the fact that constipation can be of several types and have many causes. Today we will deal with the issues of manifestation, treatment and prevention.

Kinds

As mentioned earlier, it is quite common during breastfeeding. You should not hope to solve the problem through diet or physical activity - this is not always effective. Now we will try to understand the varieties of this disease.

In order to begin treating constipation, it is necessary to understand the types and causes. In total, nursing mothers are divided into two large groups; read more about them in the table.

Causes

Constipation after childbirth during breastfeeding should be treated immediately, because this problem negatively affects both mother and baby. The method chosen should not interfere with breastfeeding.

To begin with, you should pay attention to the fact that a nursing mother should eat only fresh and healthy foods. Many people have to completely abandon their usual diet. It is necessary to eat vegetables and fruits daily, which are necessary for the proper functioning of the intestines. If you completely abandon fresh vegetables, this will lead to a number of problems with the intestines and stomach.

The first week after childbirth is quite difficult for almost all mothers. This is due to the fact that progesterone has a negative effect on the intestinal muscles. After some time, the production of the hormone will normalize, and problems with going to the toilet will end. Complete restoration of the intestines is usually observed a month after the birth of the baby.

Now we will highlight a number of other reasons that can lead to constipation. Among them:

• side effect from drugs;
• curbing urges;
• lack of physical activity;
• the body lacks fluid;
• mother consumes a large amount of fiber;
• metabolic disease;
• the presence of growths or other pathologies.

Manifestation

Constipation in a nursing mother can manifest itself in many ways. They can be either single or form a whole complex. Now we list the most common symptoms:

• appetite is constantly absent;
• a lot of gas collects in the intestines;
• possible cramping pain in the abdomen;
• bloating;
• heaviness;
• there are some difficulties in the toilet;
• if you examine the stool in more detail, you will notice tuberosity and high density;
• the patient is constantly in a bad mood;
• performance decreases;
• sleep patterns are disrupted;
• Muscle pain may occur;
• the patient may experience headaches;
• there is an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

If you were able to identify at least a small part of the symptoms presented, then you can safely diagnose constipation after childbirth while breastfeeding. Consultation with a specialist and the correct selection of medications are necessary.

Prevention

Let's start this section with the fact that it is easier to prevent a problem than to get rid of it. Prevention of constipation during pregnancy and after childbirth is a very important point; all expectant mothers are obliged to study this issue.

Prevention of intestinal disorders consists of proper nutrition and daily routine. It is very important to remember that products that have a “strengthening” effect are extremely contraindicated for new mothers. This list includes crackers, chips, rice, strong tea, and so on. Pay more attention to fermented milk products; it is especially useful to consume live yoghurts. Be sure to include fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet.

Nutrition

Now let's discuss proper nutrition if you are faced with this problem? It is best to consult a doctor to prescribe treatment. In addition to medications, you must adhere to a diet. Now let's get acquainted with its basic rules and regulations:

1. Drink more fluid: at least two liters per day. Please note that at least one liter should be cold, clean water (preferably boiled).
2. Introduce fresh vegetables and fruits into your daily diet. However, it is worth excluding legumes, which can cause the opposite effect.
3. If you don’t like fresh vegetables and fruits, then you can bake them, because with this type of heat treatment all the beneficial properties are preserved.
4. Eat natural laxative foods (prunes, beets, carrots, figs, etc.) in moderation.
5. It is necessary to improve the intestinal microflora without harming the child. Fermented milk products will help us in this matter.
6. Vegetable oils also have a laxative effect. To achieve the desired result, drink one teaspoon of olive or flaxseed oil in the morning on an empty stomach.
7. Another important rule is not to overeat. Eat more often, but in small portions - this will lead to rapid restoration of the intestines.
8. The last point should be noted is the fact that it is necessary to contact a specialist. The diet is tailored for each person individually.

Exercises

Now we will talk about another effective method of combating constipation after childbirth. What to do? Of course, move more, but don’t overwork yourself. Walking in the fresh air is beneficial for absolutely everyone, and if light gymnastics is not contraindicated, then do not regret ten minutes a day to do it. Physical exercise will not only relieve intestinal problems, but also improve your well-being and strengthen your muscles.

On the second day after giving birth, you can perform the following exercise: lie on your back, bend your knees. Take a deep breath and inflate your stomach, hold for a moment, exhale sharply through your mouth and suck in your stomach. Repeat at least five times.

On the third day, you can add the following to this exercise:

• The situation is the same. As you inhale, tighten your pelvic muscles and hold your breath. Exhale sharply through your mouth and relax your muscles.
• Get out of bed, feet shoulder-width apart, arms extended forward. Inhale and smoothly turn to the right, your right hand moving as far as possible in the direction of the turn. As you exhale, return to your starting position. Repeat the exercise with the other hand.

Fourth day:

• Standing: Clasp your hands in front. Rotate the body, moving the lock as far back as possible.
• Lying on your back: arms along the body, legs bent at the knees. Inhale - lift your pelvis, hold, exhale - take the starting position.

Fourteenth day:

• Standing, feet shoulder-width apart, hands on shoulders, elbows forward. Connect alternately the right elbow and the left knee, the left elbow and the right knee.
• Lie on your back and alternately pull your knees towards your body.

In addition to these exercises, you can use the following method:

• Atonic constipation - in the morning (lying in bed), intensively massage the umbilical area with your palms for five minutes, gradually moving towards the groin area.
• Spastic constipation - gentle stroking clockwise.

Laxative

Now briefly about laxatives approved by Duphalac - this is the most common remedy. We'll talk about it in more detail in the next section. In addition to the drug "Duphalac", during breastfeeding the following is prescribed:

• "Fortrans";
• "Forlax";
• "Transiner" and so on.

Do not self-medicate, be sure to consult a specialist.

"Duphalac": instructions for use, price

As mentioned in the previous section, this tool is the most popular. This is due to the high price-quality ratio. The drug can be purchased for a not very large amount (from 300 to 500 rubles). As you can see, compared to other drugs, this is a very low price. The instructions for using Duphalac state that the drug cannot harm the fetus during pregnancy and does not pass into breast milk.

The syrup can be drunk pure or diluted with water. It should be taken once at the same time. The initial dose is 15-45 ml. To maintain the result, 15 to 30 ml are prescribed. The effect will be noticeable after 2-3 days of use.

Traditional methods

There is one very effective folk remedy for constipation based on gooseberry fruits. To prepare the medicine, you need to steam one spoonful of berries with a glass of boiling water. Cook this mixture for another ten minutes and strain well. Use the product 4 times a day, ¼ cup. Don't forget to drink more clean boiled water.

Enema

Now let's talk about another effective remedy. How to give yourself an enema and with what? Let's start with a description of the process. You need to insert the tip of a special bulb into the anus a few centimeters and press - this will fill the intestines with liquid. Lie on your side for a while and empty your bowels. The tip is pre-lubricated with cream, oil or petroleum jelly.

What to do an enema with? You can use either regular warm water or flax seed tincture. A tablespoon of raw material should be poured with a glass of boiling water. Leave for at least three hours. Use three times a day, one serving should not exceed 50 ml.

Can I continue to feed my baby?

As you know, there is a psycho-emotional connection between mother and infant, so if the mother suffers, then the baby also suffers. In addition, when the mother's breast milk loses some beneficial properties, which can lead to problems with the baby's stool. You need to continue to breastfeed your baby, but follow all the recommendations of your doctor.