Oct 24, Probiotics and constipation during pregnancy

Constipation during pregnancy is a very common problem, and the issue is, the list of remedies available is fairly limited due to the pregnancy. A new study, published in "Nutritional Journal" (2012 Oct 4;11(1):80), takes a look at the efficacy of probiotics for constipation during pregnancy. In this study, 20 pregnant women received during four weeks a daily dose of the following probiotic strains :

• Bifidobacterium bifidum
• Bifidobacterium lactis
• Bifidobacterium longum
• Lactobacillus casei
• Lactobacillus plantarum
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus

The frequency of defecation significantly increased from 3 per week at the beginning of the study to almost 7 per week at the end of the study (4 weeks later). The sensation of obstruction and incomplete evacuation also significantly decreased. This study is therefore very encouraging for pregnant women, because the intake of probiotics is considered safe and without potential side effects for the baby.