Over the counter stool softener safe for pregnancy

Allergies
Colds
Nasal Congestion
Benadry l (Diphenhydramine),
Claritin, Claritin-D or
Z yrtec ( cetirizine)
Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) = DO NOT USE DURING FIRST 12 WEEKS OF PREGNANCY OR BREASTFEEDING
A void aggravating factors,
Ocean Spray (Saline),
Vicks (Metholatum),
Vaporizer/Humidifier,
Back PainTylenol (Acetaminophen)Heat or Cold, massage, acupuncture, Chiropractor, maternity belt for back support, shoes with arch support, limits on lifting, sleep on side with pillow between legs, back stretches Bloating
Gas
Gas-X (Simethicone)Avoid gas causing foods ConstipationStool Softener such as
Colace (Docusate)
Fiber: Senokot, Dulcolax, Metamucil, Fibercon, Citrucel, Konsyl
Milk of Magnesia
Fleets Enema
Glycerin suppository
Increase fluid intake
(64 to 96 oz per day),
Prunes or prune juice daily,
Increase diet fiber (fruits & Veggies),
Regular exercise
CoughRobitussin DM, Vicks 44 (Dextromethorpan) DiarrheaImodium AD, Kaopectate
**NO PEPTO-BISMOL**
Usually best to let it run its course,
clear liquid diet for 24 to 48 hrs, Gatorade, BRAT Diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
Fever 100.4*FTylenol (Acetaminophen)Cool Compresses, increase fluid intake Gas Pains:Gas-X – Chew 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime or as needed. Maximum 6 in 24 hours.
Mylicon-80 – 1 tablet after meals and at bedtime or as needed. Maximum 6 in 24 hours. HeadacheTylenol (Acetaminophen)Increase fluids, Rest, Stress reduction, massage, acupuncture, Chiropractor, Wann compress with lavender oil Heartburn
Indigestion
Rolaids – Chew 1-2 tablets every hour. Maximum of 24 tablets in 24 hours.
Tums – Chew 1-2 tablets every hour. Maximum of 16 tablets in 24 hours.
Maalox – 2-4 teaspoons 4 times per day. Best taken 20 minutes to 1 hour after meals and at bedtime.
Zantac and Pepcid AC– Can be taken twice daily as needed
Frequent small meals, decrease fat intake, Wait to lie down after eating at least 30 min. Pineapple (fresh or frozen), Raw almonds, Papaya tablets, 1 Tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar with a chaser of one glass water HemorrhoidsPreparation H, Anusol HC, Tucks Pads
Stool softeners (Docusate (Colace))
Mothers Love (Rhoid Balm)
A void constipation and staining, Increase Fiber & Fluids, Sitz baths, Ice packs, InsomniaBenadryl (Diphenhydramine)
Tylenol PM (Acetaminophen & Diphenhydramine) Unisom (Doxylamine Succinate)
Warm baths, passion flower (tea), essential oil (Lavender), deep breathing, daily exercise and avoid caffeine Leg CrampsCalcium 1000mg at bedtime, Magnesium lactate or Citrate 5mmol in AM & mmol in PMAvoid pointing toes, t1ex foot and elevate when cramping, increase fluids, hot shower or warm bath Ligament painTylenol (acetaminophen)Maternity belt Nausea & VomitingUnisom (Doxylamine Succinate) - Yi tab in AM and 1 tab in PM, Vitamin B6 50mg 3 times a day Tums RolaidsPeppermint or Ginger tea or candy, sip ginger ale, Sea Bands (acupressure), Acupuncture, Toast or crackers before getting out of bed Nosebleeds:Saline Nasal Spray – Squeeze twice in each nostril as needed Sore ThroatTylenol (Acetaminophen), throat lozengesWarm saline gargles, increase fluid SwellingVitamin B6 50-100 mg per dayLemon juice, watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, increase water intake, swimming Decrease salt intake, compression stockings Yeast Infection:Monistat 7, Mycelex 7, or Gyne-Lotrimin – 1 applicatorful in the vagina at bedtime. You can also spread some on the outside if needed. **DO NOT USE THESE MEDICATIONS BEFORE 13 WEEKS.**

Constipation is a common complaint during pregnancy, which means questions about using laxatives during pregnancy are frequent, as well. If you are experiencing constipation, you may find some of the natural suggestions for relieving constipation, such as eating more high fiber foods and drinking more water, do not work.

If this is the case, you may be considering using laxatives during your pregnancy to ease your discomfort. Before you do, make sure to consult your doctor and become informed about the safest course to follow when using laxatives while pregnant.

Are Laxatives Safe During Pregnancy?

It is always best to try the natural methods of relieving constipation before deciding to take any medication. For more information on constipation and ways to relieve it, please visit this link.

If none of these natural remedies seem to help, your doctor may suggest taking a mild laxative. One mild laxative, considered to be safe to take during pregnancy, is Milk of Magnesia. Your doctor may also recommend taking a bulk-producing agent like Metamucil. Lastly, your doctor may suggest a stool softener, which contains docusate, to reduce constipation.

If none of these products work, a stronger medicine might be considered. You should always consult your doctor before taking any stronger medication. In addition, make sure you do not overuse laxatives. This can cause diarrhea, leading to fluid loss, and make you more likely to reach for them in the future.

It is better to try and ensure constipation does not occur in the first place by eating high fiber foods, drinking more water, and exercising regularly.

Unsafe Options

Cod liver oil is unsafe to take during pregnancy to relieve constipation, as it can hinder the absorption of specific vitamins and minerals.

Get the Fetal Life App for Apple and Android endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association.

Compiled using information from the following resources:
(2004). Common questions and concerns during pregnancy in Harms, Roger W. (Ed.), Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy (434-66). New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers Inc.

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Stool softeners moisten your stool, making it easier to pass. Studies show no evidence of side effects linked to docusate use during pregnancy. Docusate is considered safe to use during pregnancy.

How can I soften my stool quickly while pregnant?

Eat 25 to 30 grams of fiber-rich foods each day: It's easy to ignore health advice that sounds too simple, like “just eat right.” But fiber really can help. Fiber softens your stools so that they're easier to pass. You can get fiber from fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans, peas and lentils.

What over the counter medicine can I take for constipation while pregnant?

Safe OTC Constipation Treatments to Use During Pregnancy.
Colace (docusate sodium).
Fibercon (calcium polycarbophil).
Metamucil (psyllium).
Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide).
Miralax (polyethylene glycol).

Is Dulcolax safe for pregnant?

This medicine is generally considered safe during pregnancy if taken as directed. During pregnancy, you should discuss your medicine use with your doctor or pharmacist.