Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Eat more fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and oats
Try prunes, prune juice, or pears
Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Stay physically active with pregnancy-safe movement like walking
Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement
Use a footstool to raise your knees while sitting on the toilet
Ask your doctor or midwife about pregnancy-safe stool softeners or fiber supplements
Avoid iron supplements that worsen constipation unless your clinician advises otherwise
Limit low-fiber processed foods
Contact your healthcare provider if constipation is severe, painful, or persistent