You may become constipated very early in pregnancy because of the hormonal changes going on in your body. Constipation not only reduces your appetite and makes you feel uncomfortable but it also increases your chances of having vaginal bleeding in the early months of pregnancy when you strain at stools.
It will help if you:
Make sure you include plenty of fibre in your diet through eating foods like wholemeal breads, wholegrain cereals, fruit and vegetables and pulses such as beans and lentils.
Exercise regularly to keep your muscles toned up.
Make sure you drink plenty of water.
Avoid iron pills if they cause constipation- we can discuss whether you can manage without them or change to a different type, or add mild laxatives or stool softners.