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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Taking Laxatives During Pregnancy Cause Miscarriage?

I currently take in excess of 30 laxatives a day to keep regular, which i have been doing for about 9 years now. I have tried to get off them but find myself very constipated and very unconfortable that i give in and take them. I just found out i am roughly 5 weeks pregnant and worried this amount will cause me to misscarriage?
Fri, 8 May 2020
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

It depends upon which type of laxative is used. Mild laxatives like milk of magnesia or Metamucil are considered to be safe during pregnancy. However a stronger purgative like castor oil may cause uterine contractions and thus there is a risk of miscarriage.

Overuse of laxatives can cause diarrhea diarrhea, leading to fluid loss, electrolyte imbalances and can reduce the amount of nutrients that are absorbed into the body. It can also affect the absorptions of any medications you might be taking.

In view of the above I advise you to try the natural methods of relieving constipation like increased intake of fruits, vegetables, oral fluids and physical activity.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali
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Does Taking Laxatives During Pregnancy Cause Miscarriage?

Hi, It depends upon which type of laxative is used. Mild laxatives like milk of magnesia or Metamucil are considered to be safe during pregnancy. However a stronger purgative like castor oil may cause uterine contractions and thus there is a risk of miscarriage. Overuse of laxatives can cause diarrhea diarrhea, leading to fluid loss, electrolyte imbalances and can reduce the amount of nutrients that are absorbed into the body. It can also affect the absorptions of any medications you might be taking. In view of the above I advise you to try the natural methods of relieving constipation like increased intake of fruits, vegetables, oral fluids and physical activity. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali