My question is about constipation. I have suffered from the same problem since my first week of pregnancy! (I am six weeks along now). My doctor told me to use Metamucil and it seems to be working wonders. However, I have read several books that warn against it. Should I follow my doctor's advice or the books?
Also, since the successful bowel movements, I have been feeling much better, but my abdomen is still quite bloated. I don't feel very gassy -- could I be showing this early?
Other than the fact that this product does have a fair amount of sugar in it, I can think of no reason why occasional use would be harmful. It is a bulk former and not a laxative so the bowel does not build up a "dependency" on it. It needs a lot of water to make it effective and pregnancy needs for water also increase substantially so double up on fluids.
We always recommend activity, water, dietary methods as well but if this helps and you feel that much better on it, I would continue.
At 6 weeks, you should not be "showing" yet but bloating is fairly common during pregnancy. Of course, your provider should be aware of this.
