middot; As many as half of all pregnant women have problems with constipation. One of the reasons for this may be the change in hormones during pregnancy that cause slowing of food movement through the digestive tract. middot; Other causes may be inadequate fluid intake or insufficient fiber in the diet. Sometimes iron supplements may cause constipation. During the last part of pregnancy, pressure on the rectum from your uterus may add to the problem.

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint in Canada and the United States. Almost anyone can become constipated. However, some people are more likely than others to experience constipation: including older people, pregnant women, travelers, people taking certain medications, or for those who may have had surgery. See similar questions...

middot; Yes, you may find that you have an increase in leg cramps in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Get plenty of calcium (three glasses of milk or supplement) and potassium (bananas and oranges). Stretching your legs before going to bed may help relieve cramps. See similar questions...

middot; It is not uncommon to have yeast infections during pregnancy. If you develop a yeast infection, it is safe for you to use over-the-counter products, such as Monistat. However, if you are early in your pregnancy, before 12 weeks, use the cream externally only. After 12 weeks, it is safe to gently use the applicator internally. See similar questions...

If diet and exercise do not relieve your chronic constipation, you should discuss treatment options with a physician. You may be able to use therapies such as biofeedback to retrain your muscles, or you may be suffering from a form of chronic constipation, Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS), a functional disorder or spasm of pelvic floor muscles that may be resolved with a surgical procedure. See similar questions...

Constipation is any form of congestion and is usually accompanied by dehydration. It extends to the cellular level. One bowel movement a day is a sign of constipation and incomplete elimination is a form of constipation. Symptoms are overweight, fatigue, irritability, mental confusion, bloat, gas, indigestion, lethargy, headaches, migraines, earaches, sinus drainage, allergies, cellulite, anxiety, depression, pessimism, whining, unsatisfied hunger, poor circulation. See similar questions...

There may be some reduction in the volume of your stools. That's normal after a decrease in food intake, because you eat less fiber. This should not cause severe problems. If difficulties do arise, check with your doctor. He or she may suggest you take a mild laxative and drink plenty of water for a while. Drinking plenty of water is a good idea, anyway. Your needs will vary, but you should drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day. See similar questions...

Constipation is passage of small amounts of hard, dry bowel movements, usually fewer than three times a week. People who are constipated may find it difficult and painful to have a bowel movement. Other symptoms of constipation include feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish. Many people think they are constipated when, in fact, their bowel movements are regular. For example, some people believe they are constipated, or irregular, if they do not have a bowel movement every day. See similar questions...

A molar pregnancy triggers the same first-trimester symptoms that a normal pregnancy does (a missed menstrual period, breast tenderness, fatigue, increased urination, morning sickness). It may be diagnosed during an early ultrasound test. See similar questions...

Depression is a serious illness that interferes with work, study, sleep, eating and enjoying oneself. It may appear once in a person’s life, but more often occurs several times. Depression that occurs during pregnancy or within a year after delivery is called perinatal depression. Depression after pregnancy is called postpartum depression or peripartum depression. See similar questions...

Diarrhea - If this occurs, increase your fluids to at least 6 to 8 glasses a day. Avoid milk or milk products until the diarrhea has resolved. Follow the BRATT diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesause, Tea, or Toast. If you obtain no relief in 24 hours of the BRATT diet, Kaopectate or Immodium may be purchased without a prescription. If the diarrhea continues for more than 48 hours, please call the office. Constipation - The best way to combat constipation is through prevention. See similar questions...

Overall, the most common cause (80-85%) of maternal hyperthyroidism during pregnancy is Graves’ disease (see Graves’ Disease brochure) and occurs in 1 in 1500 pregnant patients. The diagnosis of hyperthyroidism can be somewhat difficult, as 123I thyroid scanning is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the small amount of radioactivity, which can be concentrated by the baby’s thyroid. Consequently, diagnosis is based on a careful history, physical exam and laboratory testing. See similar questions...

Pregnancy gingivitis is most common. Here, the gums are usually red and swollen, bleed easily and become very sore or sensitive. There seems to be a direct correlation between the rise in the levels of progesterone and estrogen and the level of gingival inflammation. This increased gingival inflammation is usually first seen about the second month and reaches its maximum around the eighth month of pregnancy. See similar questions...