Microenema "Microlax": instructions for use during pregnancy in the early and late stages. Solving a delicate problem during pregnancy with Microlax Microlax instructions for pregnant women

During pregnancy, hormonal changes occur in the female body, and the usual diet changes. This causes disruptions in the functioning of the digestive tract, weakening of intestinal motility, and spastic constipation. Microlax during pregnancy helps to normalize stool and facilitate bowel movements at any stage of gestation.

The combined laxative is available in the form of a microenema with a solution for rectal administration. Microlax has laxative properties, increases volume, and thins dense stool by allowing water molecules to enter the intestines. Sorbitol in the drug irritates the receptors of the mucous membranes, stimulating peristalsis, causing the urge to empty.

Note! During pregnancy, Microlax microenemas act within 5–20 minutes after insertion into the rectal cavity.

The medicine is poorly absorbed into the systemic bloodstream, so it does not affect the functioning of internal organs, does not penetrate the placental barrier, and does not cause contraction of the uterine walls. It can be used at any stage of pregnancy without the risk of side effects for the fetus.

When is it prescribed?

Constipation during gestation negatively affects the condition of the expectant mother and child. When defecation is delayed, the absorption of beneficial nutrients and vitamins is impaired, the intestinal microflora is disrupted, and immunity is reduced. The risk of developing body intoxication, bacterial infections, inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, and urinary system increases.

In the third trimester, hard feces in the rectum can provoke an increase in uterine tone, premature birth, and poor circulation in the pelvis, which is complicated by oxygen starvation of the fetus with further pathologies. For pregnant women, constipation is dangerous due to intoxication of the body and deterioration of general well-being.

When is it necessary to use the Microlax enema:

• bowel movements occur less than once every 3 days;
• stool has a dry, hard consistency;
• when visiting the restroom you have to strain a lot;
• inability to independently perform an act of defecation;
• flatulence, bloating in the abdomen;
• intestinal colic;
• the stool contains blood impurities;
• a feeling of incomplete cleansing of the intestines after defecation.

Read also Microlax did not work: what to do

The use of laxatives is contraindicated for pregnant women with individual intolerance to the active ingredients of the drug. If you are hypersensitive, the solution may cause redness, itching, swelling, and a rash in the rectal area.

Important! Before using a laxative, you should consult your doctor. The doctor will tell you whether Microlax can be taken during pregnancy, help you find out the cause of constipation, and prescribe a special diet.

If there are cracks or other damage to the rectum, the solution may cause a burning sensation. In such cases, it is necessary to carry out hygiene procedures for the intimate area using detergents that have a neutral pH level.

Terms of use

The microenema has a hygienic disposable package, ready for use, and does not require pre-treatment with antiseptics. There is no need to specifically select the dosage; one tube contains the required amount of medication for a single administration.

Instructions for using Microlax mini-enemas for constipation during pregnancy:

1. Wash your hands and anorectal area with soap.
2. Open the seal on the tip of the flexible applicator.
3. Squeeze out a little solution to lubricate the applicator, this will facilitate the process of insertion into the anus and prevent damage to the soft tissue.
4. Gently insert the enema tip into the anus.
5. Press on the tube and squeeze out its contents.
6. Remove the tip while continuing to squeeze the bottle.

After use, the Microlax enema is disposed of. Do not use an expired product if the packaging is damaged. Too frequent administration of laxatives is not recommended. If the pathology recurs, you should consult a doctor.

With chronic constipation, women are concerned about how often Microlax can be used during pregnancy. The laxative works directly in the final part of the rectum and only helps relieve symptoms and the process of defecation, but does not eliminate the cause of stool retention. Therefore, in case of chronic stool ejection disorder, you should undergo a medical examination and course of treatment.

Use in the 1st trimester

The cause of constipation in the early stages is most often hormonal changes in the body, changes in diet, reduction in physical activity, taking medications containing calcium and iron, and stress. Women suffering from delayed bowel movements often doubt whether or not they can use microenemas in the first 20 weeks of gestation, since other laxatives (drops, suppositories) cause intestinal spasms and can provoke uterine hypertonicity and miscarriage.

Read also How to do an oil enema for constipation

It is safest to use pharmaceutical enemas based on sorbitol, sodium citrate, and lacryl sulfoacetate in the 1st trimester for constipation.

During early pregnancy, Microlax has a mild laxative effect, dissolves feces, and facilitates bowel movements.

The drug does not pass through the digestive tract and is not absorbed into the systemic bloodstream, so there is no risk of drug intoxication. There is no effect on the intrauterine development of the fetus. This is especially important during the 1st and 2nd trimesters, when all the vital systems of the fetus are formed.

Use in 2-3 trimester

In the second trimester, the size of the uterus increases significantly, the organ puts pressure on the intestines and can cause a delay in emptying the rectum. Constipation also develops due to a sedentary lifestyle, unbalanced diet, changes in emotional background, fetal position, and concomitant endocrine disorders.

Microlax during pregnancy helps to normalize the process of defecation without provoking spasms of the smooth muscles of the pelvic organs. Soft emptying eliminates the possibility of premature birth, since the woman does not have to push.

During late pregnancy, Microlax does not cause edema, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, increased blood pressure, or disturbances in the electrolyte balance of the blood, like other laxatives.

Benefits of Laxative

The main advantage of the drug is that Microlax can be used at any stage of pregnancy without risk to the health of the mother and the unborn child. Unlike other laxatives, microenemas do not cause uterine spasms and cannot cause spontaneous abortion or premature birth.

Important! The active substances act locally, do not disrupt intestinal function, and do not affect the natural rhythm of colon emptying. Microlax enema for constipation does not cause psychological or physiological addiction in pregnant women.

Since the active substances poorly penetrate into the bloodstream, toxic effects on the fetus are eliminated. The advantages of Microlax include the possibility of use without selecting an individual dosage, ease of use and rapid action of the drug. Microenemas can be prescribed as part of complex therapy for chronic constipation to eliminate unpleasant symptoms.

Although women's doctors generally have a negative attitude towards the use of an enema during pregnancy, many of them still allow and even recommend that patients use the Microlax microenema. It comes in the form of a clear solution filled with small beads of oxygen. Its structure is characterized by viscosity. Microlax is sold in a tube with an extended tip. One microenema contains 5 mg of solution. The package contains from 4 to 12 enemas.

When it gets into the stool, the drug softens it and stimulates bowel movements of the expectant mother. The use of the solution not only speeds up the act of defecation, but also helps eliminate pain after it. The effect of using microenemas is observed after 5–10 minutes.

The drug is approved for use to relieve constipation in women carrying a child due to its safe composition. The active ingredients of Microlax help moisturize and irritate the rectum, thereby stimulating the urge to defecate. Auxiliary components of the solution are water, sorbic acid, glycerin.

The active components of Microlax include:

• Sodium citrate. Displaces water contained in feces, promoting their excretion.
• Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate. Liquefies feces.
• Sorbitol. Stimulates the flow of water into the intestines.

Studies have shown that Microlax during pregnancy does not affect either the mother or the child, since its active substances do not enter the blood. In isolated cases, individual intolerance to the components of the solution is observed.

In the early stages of pregnancy, women often experience constipation (more in the article: constipation in early pregnancy). They occur due to changes in hormonal levels and weakening of the functions of intestinal smooth muscles.

Gynecologists advise patients during this period only to follow a diet - exclude fried and fatty foods and enrich their diet with foods rich in fiber. Physical activity is another way to get rid of an unpleasant problem. If both methods do not have the proper effect and become ineffective, doctors resort to the use of microenemas.

At later stages, that is, at the end of the second and throughout the third trimester, there is an increase in pressure on the intestines due to active weight gain of the fetus. Constipation during pregnancy can also be caused by certain medications that gynecologists prescribe to maintain the patient’s condition, for example, medications that reduce uterine tone and contain calcium and iron.

The instructions for the drug indicate that it can be used during pregnancy. And doctors themselves often prescribe it to their patients with such a delicate problem. The drug has an exclusively local effect, is not absorbed into the bloodstream, and does not in any way affect the tone of the uterine muscles or the fetus itself. Therefore, it is prescribed both in the early stages and in the later stages. Microlax is used to eliminate single or chronic constipation, as well as to cleanse the intestines immediately before childbirth.

There is nothing easier than doing a Microlax enema; the only way to use it is to administer it at the destination. The drug has an effect only in the lumen of the rectum. For one enema, 1 tube of the drug is used. The tube is equipped with a special tip so that it can be inserted immediately. There is no need to use a regular enema separately.

It is no secret that before giving birth, a woman is given an enema to empty her intestines of feces. It is prescribed instead of an enema. In some maternity hospitals, enemas are now not given, and women are immediately told to give themselves an enema with Microlax as soon as the first contractions appear. But most doctors are against such enemas, because they soften the stool, and the intestines may not be completely cleansed.

Before giving birth, it is better to do a classic enema to thoroughly cleanse the intestines of feces.

If a pregnant woman experiences constipation, then it is imperative to use local laxatives. Medications that are familiar to many can cause an increase in the tone of the uterus in the expectant mother and cause a miscarriage or early birth. Microlax is not absorbed by the intestinal walls, ridding it of accumulated contents.

When labor is activated, women must empty their bowels, and the best solution is to use a microenema. It is an excellent alternative and has a more gentle effect, does not cause pain and is more convenient to use. Of course, comfort does not play a big role in this matter, but for many women it is really important to prevent bowel movements during the birth of the baby.

Despite all the positive properties, the drug acts quite aggressively and increases the pain that is already present during contractions, and can also provoke too sudden opening of the uterus. But in this case, you need to worry about your own health, since if feces accidentally enter the vagina, the development of a serious infection is possible.

Microlax is classified as a laxative that provokes bowel movements. It has the shape of a tube with a tip that should be inserted into the anus. Before use, you need to squeeze a drop of the product onto the tip, as glycerin will reduce the level of discomfort. The contents of the bottle are intended for one use only. And the effect occurs within fifteen minutes after administration of the substance.

The main advantages of using such a microenema are the lightning-fast results and ease of use. Moreover, the cleansing procedure can be done independently in comfortable conditions immediately before going to the maternity hospital. What is especially good is that the composition of the medication is as safe as possible for the body of the mother in labor and her unborn baby. It is not recommended to use Microlax if the amniotic fluid has already broken and the uterus has opened.

Causes and consequences of constipation during pregnancy

The cause of frequent constipation in expectant mothers is natural physiological changes. When pregnancy occurs, the production of progesterone is activated, which reduces smooth muscle tone. Because of this, intestinal motility is impaired and, as a result, constipation occurs. Eating disorders due to changing food habits also affect bowel regularity.

In the article we discuss Microlax microenema during pregnancy. We tell you whether it can be used in early and late stages, what contraindications there are for use. You will learn about the composition of the drug and its analogues, instructions for use, reviews of women who used the drug against constipation during pregnancy.

Constipation during pregnancy is observed in every second expectant mother. This condition is caused by physiological changes in the body due to the influence of hormonal levels, as well as displacement of internal organs, especially in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy.

Under the influence of the hormone progesterone, smooth muscle tone weakens. As the uterus and fetus grow, the diaphragm moves, putting pressure on the intestines. This leads to difficulties in the digestive processes, as well as the passage of feces through the intestines.

This condition is quite normal, but this does not make it any easier for the expectant mother. Flatulence, a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, loss of appetite and rapid fatigue - this is how constipation manifests itself externally.

Irregular bowel movements negatively affect pregnancy, as the uterus is compressed by the enlarged intestines. Poisoning of the body and active proliferation of putrefactive microflora also occurs.

The most serious complication of constipation is the formation of hemorrhoids and anal fissures, which cause a lot of discomfort. In addition, difficult passage of feces forces a woman to strain, which can lead to uterine hypertonicity, miscarriage, and even premature birth.

In such a situation, it is recommended to follow a special diet or use medications for constipation that help stimulate intestinal motility and soften the stool. This complex therapeutic technique helps solve a delicate problem without harm to the pregnant woman and the fetus.

Appearance (photo) of Microlax

What is Microlax

Microlax is a solution for rectal use, produced in the form of a disposable microenema. Belongs to a group of laxatives that affect the digestive system and metabolic rate.

One package contains 4 or 12 microenemas of 5 ml each. The price of the medicine is from 300 rubles and above for a package of 4 enemas.

The manufacturer is the French company Famar Orleans. The product is available in pharmacies without a prescription.

The active substances of the medicine act only locally, eliminating constipation within 15-20 minutes.

Contains:

• sorbitol solution;
• sodium citrate;
• sodium lauryl sulfoacetate;
• water;
• glycerol;
• sorbic acid.

Microlax has mechanical and chemical effects. It is a non-toxic agent with an irritating and moisturizing effect. Penetrating into the feces, the solution liquefies them, after which the process of defecation is facilitated.

Use of Microlax during pregnancy

Microlax will become a lifesaver for pregnant women who have problems with the passage of feces. After using it, the stool becomes liquid and passes out without difficulty.

Despite the fact that there is no in-depth research on how the drug affects pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is often prescribed during gestation and lactation. Since the components of the drug have an extremely low ability to penetrate the intestinal walls, a negative effect on the fetus and the course of pregnancy is not expected during the use of Microlax.

At the same time, it is not known for sure whether the active components of the drug pass into breast milk. Therefore, regular use of Microlax during lactation is not recommended.

Constipation during pregnancy is a common problem that should be addressed with a gynecologist. Since the use of Microlax only temporarily treats constipation, a comprehensive approach is required to completely get rid of it. In addition, each person’s body is unique, and there is no 100% guarantee that the drug will definitely suit you and will not cause an allergic reaction.

As a rule, microenemas are used in the later stages of pregnancy, since at this time it is difficult to deal with constipation due to the greatly enlarged uterus. At the same time, it is permissible to use Microlax in the 1st and 2nd trimester of pregnancy.

Experts do not recommend using microenemas frequently, since it is only an emergency aid, but not a treatment. You can cope with constipation caused by hormonal changes with the help of special exercises and changes in diet. If the pathology is caused by other reasons, then a doctor’s consultation is necessary to resolve them.

What are the advantages of Microlax microenemas? Like this:

• absence of components with a teratogenic effect on the fetus;
• Possibility of use both in early and late stages of pregnancy;
• rectal use prevents absorption of the medication into the blood;
• lack of addiction and relaxation of intestinal muscles;
• ease of use;
• no effect on the tone of the uterus;
• possibility of systematic use during pregnancy.

Microenemas Microlax helps to quickly solve a delicate problem

Indications

Any self-medication during pregnancy can result in various complications. Therefore, before using medications, even those sold without a prescription, you should first consult with your doctor. The same rule applies to Microlax.

Indications for use of the drug during pregnancy are:

• various types of constipation;
• fecal incontinence;
• weak gastric motility;
• performing fluoroscopy and rectoscopy;
• diseases that require relief of bowel movements (rectal injuries, hemorrhoids);
• prenatal bowel cleansing;
• routine ultrasound examination in pregnant women with stool disorders.

Instructions for use

Before you start using the Microlax enema, carefully read the instructions. Improper use of the drug can cause diarrhea and injury to the mucous membrane.

According to studies that were carried out before the mass production of the rectal drug, side effects from the use of the drug were recorded only in isolated cases. There was no overdose at all, since the solution does not penetrate the bloodstream.

According to the manufacturer, who refers to the tests performed, Microlax can be used during pregnancy without restrictions in quantity and time. The dosage of the drug is selected based on needs, and therapy can last until normal bowel function is restored. But there is one rule: you cannot use more than 1 enema during 1 procedure.

How to use a microenema

In order for the product to bring results and not harm your health, it is necessary to use it correctly. For this:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
2. Take 1 microenema, then remove the seal from it, which is located on the tip of the tube.
3. Apply a little pressure to the tube to release a drop of solution to facilitate administration of the enema.
4. Insert the tip to its full length.
5. Start squeezing the tube until all its contents come out.
6. Pull out the tip while squeezing out the enema.

Throw the empty tube into the trash and wash your hands with soap.

Analogues

Microlax is an expensive product that can hit your pocket if you use it regularly. Therefore, for constipation, you can use other laxatives, the cost of which is lower and they are also allowed during pregnancy.

There are no drugs completely identical to Microlax, but there are medications with similar effects:

• Glycerin suppositories - price 150-250 rubles for 10 pieces;
• Transulose (gel) - the price for a tube of 150 g is 370 rubles;
• Bisacodyl (tablets, powder, rectal suppositories) - from 15 rubles;
• Duphalac (syrup) - cost from 300 rubles per 200 ml, from 505 rubles per 500 ml, from 950 rubles per 1000 ml;
• Duphalac (packaged syrup) - from 300 rubles for 10 sachets;
• Agiolax (granules for oral administration) - from 1,400 rubles;
• Mukofalk (suspension) - price from 500 rubles for 20 sachets of 5 g;
• Normolact (syrup) - price from 130 to 190 rubles per 100 ml bottle, from 230 to 360 rubles per 200 ml bottle.

You can use these medications only after your doctor's permission. Self-use is prohibited, since these products contain substances other than Microlax, which can have a different effect on the pregnant woman’s body.

Rectal solution has contraindications for use

Contraindications

In some cases you should refrain from using the product. For example, using the drug if you are allergic to it can cause severe itching and burning in the anus.

In what cases is the drug prohibited? Here is the list:

• individual intolerance;
• intestinal obstruction;
• fructose malabsorption.

You should also refrain from using microenemas during therapy for hyperkalemia using rectal suppositories. If precautions are ignored, necrosis of intestinal tissue may develop.

Side effects after using microenemas are extremely rare. They may appear as:

• burning in the anus;
• painful sensations in the abdomen;
• itching in the anus;
• hives;
• stomach upsets.

During pregnancy, in a woman’s body, along with the growth and development of the fetus, the uterus enlarges, which gradually begins to compress the surrounding organs and vessels, including the intestines. This feature leads to deterioration of the expectant mother’s digestion, causing stool retention and constipation. Other reasons are also involved in the development of this problem: changes in hormonal levels, lack of iron, stress, decreased physical activity, changes in food habits.

Long-term constipation causes the accumulation of harmful substances in the body, pain in the abdomen and anal area, and in severe cases, inflammation. Microlax during pregnancy is used to prevent these complications by causing bowel movements. This drug does not have a harmful effect on the fetus, so it can be used while pregnant.

Composition and release form

Microlax is a combination drug; it contains three active substances:

1. Sodium citrate. It is a peptizer (a substance that causes the transition of a solid substance into solution). Due to its mechanism of action, sodium citrate at the molecular level promotes the release of water from feces into the intestinal lumen. This effect facilitates the act of defecation.
2. L sodium auryl sulfoacetate. This substance dilutes the contents of the intestines, the stool becomes softer and it leaves the rectum more easily when attempting to have a bowel movement.
3. Sorbitol. It promotes the release of water into the intestinal lumen, which enhances the diluting effect of the drug.

In addition to active substances, Microlax contains sorbic acid, glycerin and water. This drug has one release form - a solution for rectal use. Microlax during pregnancy is used when stool is retained for two days or more, or to prepare the intestines for endoscopic and x-ray examinations.

Attention! The Microlax microenema is safe during pregnancy for both the mother and the fetus, however, the use of this drug is possible only after consulting a doctor, since the drug is not able to eliminate the cause of constipation, but is only a symptomatic remedy.

Microlax is used as a microenema during pregnancy. It takes effect 5-15 minutes after application. The advantage of the drug is that it has no effect on the upper gastrointestinal tract; Microlax only dilutes the stool located in the rectum, which does not lead to the development of “lazy bowel” syndrome. Also, this drug does not have any effect on the contractile activity of the uterus, and its rectal route of administration ensures that the drug does not enter the bloodstream, so it does not reach the bloodstream of the fetus and does not have any effect on it.

Instructions for use

The use of Microlax in the early stages of pregnancy is possible only under strict indications and as prescribed by a doctor. In the first weeks of gestation, all the rudiments of the fetal organs are formed, so the use of medications at this time is undesirable. In early pregnancy, to combat constipation, you should review your diet to include more fiber. It is found in raw vegetables and fruits, especially in cabbage, carrots, corn, avocado, and prunes. Special gymnastics and increased levels of physical activity also promote bowel movements.

Microlax during pregnancy in the second trimester is used according to indications after consulting a doctor. The dosage of the drug is standard, one microenema contains a certain amount of active substances, it is used once. To use the medicine, you should do the following:

• remove the seal on the top of the tube;
• press down the tube a little, during this a small amount of the drug should flow out onto the end of the enema (this action will facilitate the advancement of the enema into the anus);
• insert the tip of the enema to its full length into the anus;
• press the tube with the drug, after this action it should become empty;
• pull the microenema out of the rectum, at this time you need to slightly squeeze the tube.

Repeated use of the drug is possible in case of next constipation. However, you should not abuse this drug; the best solution to the problem of difficulty defecating is to try to eliminate the cause of the symptom.

Microlax in the third trimester of pregnancy is also used according to indications after prior consultation with a doctor. At this time, the uterus puts a lot of pressure on the intestines, so the number of women suffering from constipation increases sharply during the last weeks of bearing a child. Instructions for use are similar to the second trimester.

Microlax in late pregnancy has an additional indication - prevention of birth infection. It can develop by the entry of microorganisms from the rectum into the vagina. Therefore, Microlax at 38-39 weeks of pregnancy is recommended for use in women suffering from constipation. The drug has no effect on labor and can be discontinued at any time.

Contraindications and side effects

The drug Microlax has no contraindications for use, except for individual intolerance to the components. Side effects after using the drug are rare. Among them are: pain in the abdomen, discomfort near the anus, diarrhea. Very rarely, patients experience nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions in the form of urticaria, itching, and local swelling. Microlax therapy should not be carried out simultaneously with oral intake of sodium polystyrene sulfonate and sorbitol. Such treatment can lead to necrosis of the intestinal epithelium.

Microlax analogs

This drug has no complete analogues in its composition. The drug Agiolax has a similar mechanism of action; it helps to increase intestinal contents, dilute stool and facilitate bowel movements. The drug has a natural composition and is available in the form of granules for oral administration. Its use during pregnancy should be agreed with a doctor.

The drug Bisacodyl has a pronounced laxative effect. It is sold in the form of powder, tablets and rectal suppositories. The latter form of release is the most suitable for a pregnant woman, since it does not have a general effect on the body. Before using the drug, consult a doctor.

Medicines containing senna have a mild laxative effect, thin stool, and improve intestinal motility. Drugs in this group are available in tablet form; pregnant women should consult a doctor before using them. The advantage of the medicine is its natural composition and the absence of negative effects on the fetus.

When carrying a child, women often face problems such as constipation. It is accompanied by unpleasant sensations - bloating, heaviness in the lower abdomen, as well as pain after defecation. For expectant mothers, such disruption of the gastrointestinal tract causes irritation and anxiety. They turn to the gynecologist with the question of how to get rid of constipation and whether they can use a microenema or not.

Microenema "Microlax": composition and properties of the drug

Although women's doctors generally have a negative attitude towards the use of an enema during pregnancy, many of them still allow and even recommend that patients use the Microlax microenema. It comes in the form of a clear solution filled with small beads of oxygen. Its structure is characterized by viscosity. Microlax is sold in a tube with an extended tip. One microenema contains 5 mg of solution. The package contains from 4 to 12 enemas.

When it gets into the stool, the drug softens it and stimulates bowel movements of the expectant mother. The use of the solution not only speeds up the act of defecation, but also helps eliminate pain after it. The effect of using microenemas is observed after 5–10 minutes.

The drug is approved for use to relieve constipation in women carrying a child due to its safe composition. The active ingredients of Microlax help moisturize and irritate the rectum, thereby stimulating the urge to defecate. Auxiliary components of the solution are water, sorbic acid, glycerin.

The active components of Microlax include:

• Sodium citrate. Displaces water contained in feces, promoting their excretion.
• Sodium lauryl sulfoacetate. Liquefies feces.
• Sorbitol. Stimulates the flow of water into the intestines.

Indications for use of Microlax during pregnancy

The product is available in pharmacies without a prescription, but this does not mean that a pregnant woman can self-medicate. Before using Microlax, you should definitely consult a gynecologist. Doctors are usually especially careful when prescribing an enema, but in the case of Microlax they are not so categorical. Indications for use of the product include:

• constipation of various etiologies and duration;
• disturbances in the functioning of the stomach;
• weak intestinal motility;
• fecal incontinence by the expectant mother;
• bowel movement before childbirth;
• preparation for an ultrasound examination of a pregnant woman with stool disorder;
• performing procedures on the rectum.

For how long can Microlax be used?

Studies have shown that Microlax during pregnancy does not affect either the mother or the child, since its active substances do not enter the blood. In isolated cases, individual intolerance to the components of the solution is observed.

In the early stages of pregnancy, women often experience constipation (more details in the article:). They occur due to changes in hormonal levels and weakening of the functions of intestinal smooth muscles.

Gynecologists advise patients during this period only to follow a diet - exclude fried and fatty foods and enrich their diet with foods rich in fiber. Physical activity is another way to get rid of an unpleasant problem. If both methods do not have the proper effect and become ineffective, doctors resort to the use of microenemas. Stool retention is a very dangerous condition, fraught with poisoning of the embryo with toxins, as well as an increase in uterine tone, which can provoke a miscarriage in the first trimester.

At later stages, that is, at the end of the second and throughout the third trimester, there is an increase in pressure on the intestines due to active weight gain of the fetus. Constipation during pregnancy can also be caused by certain medications that gynecologists prescribe to maintain the patient’s condition, for example, medications that reduce uterine tone and contain calcium and iron.

Method of use (how often can you use it, at what time, etc.)

Before using a product to stimulate bowel movements, the expectant mother should definitely study the recommendations specified in the instructions, consult with a gynecologist - in a word, make sure that all precautions are taken. Before administering a microenema, a woman must wash and dry her hands. The introduction procedure includes the following steps:

1. removing the seal from the tip;
2. taking a position on the left side with bent knees;
3. gradual introduction of the tip into the rectum to its length;
4. slowly squeezing out the contents of the solution.

The laxative effect can be felt already with the administration of the medicine. For it to really work, a woman needs to be patient and wait the specified time. According to the instructions, the effect of the medication begins only after 15 minutes, and all unpleasant sensations are a consequence of irritation of the rectum.

Many patients are interested in how many hours later Microlax is administered or how often expectant mothers are allowed to use it. The Microlax enema can be done at any time of the day. The question of the frequency of use and dosage of the drug is decided only by the attending physician.

If after 2 times the effect does not occur, the woman needs to contact a specialist to replace the product. Patients should remember that this remedy does not eliminate the cause of constipation.

Side effects

Despite the safety of Microlax, its use has its side effects. In order to avoid unpleasant consequences after using a solution to stimulate bowel movements, the patient should definitely consult a doctor. Unexpected effects on the body, first of all, may be due to the presence of contraindications that were not studied by the patient before using Microlax. It cannot be used for:

• fructose intolerance;
• intestinal obstruction;
• use of other rectal products;
• use of drugs for hyperkalemia;
• hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

In addition, the development of side effects may be associated with self-medication and non-compliance with the dosage of the solution. Side effects include:

• irritation;
• burning;
• redness;
• frequent bowel movements;
• pain in the lower abdomen.

Microlax analogues (suppositories, oral medications) and traditional methods of combating constipation

To eliminate constipation, it is necessary to introduce fermented milk products into the diet, increase the volume of fluid consumed, do household chores and exercise.

If the above methods are ineffective, doctors resort to drug therapy. If Microlax is not suitable or is contraindicated for a woman, the gynecologist should prescribe another medicine that will also not be absorbed into the intestinal walls and will not increase its peristalsis. As a rule, microenemas are replaced with rectal suppositories or tablets.

Microlax has no structural analogues, however, doctors resort to replacing the medicine with the following drugs:

• Transipeg. It retains water in the intestines and helps dilute stool. The drug is produced in the form of powders, which must be dissolved in water before use. Its positive aspects include the lack of influence on the fetus and the ability to be absorbed into the intestinal wall. However, the drug begins to act only after a few days, often causes diarrhea, and has many contraindications.
• Defenorm. This is a preparation based on plantain. It is available in capsules and tablets, the effect occurs after six hours, causing the stool to expand and soften. Its disadvantages include a slight irritant effect on the walls of the rectum. This medicine does not affect the fetus.
• Softovak. This is another herbal drug, but there is no data on its effect on a pregnant woman.
• Glycerax. Rectal suppositories contain glycerol, which activates peristalsis. On the advice of a gynecologist, it can be used during pregnancy.

Constipation can be eliminated by using folk remedies that have a mild laxative effect, reduce abdominal pain, and relieve spasms. The use of any means, especially herbs, must be agreed with a gynecologist. Under the supervision of a doctor, pregnant women can take infusions of flax seeds, chamomile decoctions, and castor oil. Patients can eat lemon balm, mint, motherwort, plantain, dill, ginger, currant and blueberry leaves, and prunes.