Constipation, described as the infrequent passage of small hard stools, occurs particularly in the later stages of pregnancy as a result of reduced gut movement and the pressure of the enlarged uterus on the bowel. It can be worsened by Iron supplements which may be necessary to prevent the development of anaemia in some women. The symptoms are be helped by ensuring a high fluid intake together with a high fibre diet and laxatives to soften the bowel contents, together with attention to establishing a regular bowel habit.