laxative

[helpxx]

I have been battling an addiction to taking laxtives to loss weight altho ive stopes last 2 weeks  ive just round out  4 weeks pregant will this harm baby now

[ExPat2013]

Hi helpxx. I, too, was addicted to laxatives off and on for years. For me, it was because of an eating disorder. Trust me when I say this, using laxatives to loose or control weight loss is an illusion. You do loose mostly water and dehydrate yourself. Now, I'm no Dr. However, prolonged use can cause your bowels to be "lazy". So here are some tips to help physiologically and psychologically:

-Where you are pregnant, always consult your Dr. Before doing anything.

-when you stop laxatives, you may experience discomfort of constipation and bloating. I upped my fibre in my diet and used natural ginger supplements to combat the bloating. A diet, high in fibre will get your bowels moving on your own again.

- consulting and perhaps, working with a dietician throughout your pregnancy, as well as post-pregnancy can help keep you healthy and on track:) I was very lucky to have an awesome dietician who helped me to learn how to eat healthy and make healthy food choices for myself that I use to this day:)

My disclaimer here is that I am only sharing with you what worked for me and my experiences. I've never been pregnant and  not a medical or dietary professional! These are just some suggestions you can ask your Dr. about. I suggest that should be the first step. I do know, from personal experience, that laxatives are not the way to go and you do not want to do irrepairable damage to your Bowels later on. All the best to you and best wishes for a healthy and enjoyable pregnancy !

[Julia M Aharonov, DO]

You should discuss this with your obstetrician as soon as possible. I do not believe that this early in pregnancy your baby came to any harm as long as you were not extremely dehydrated. You should of course stop this practice as even you understand that it is not a true addiction but a choice. If you feel constipated, please address it with your OB as there are safe options to treat that condition. Good luck.