How can chronic constipation affect my pregnancy?

Chronic constipation can develop as a result of pregnancy and can cause hemorrhoids and discomfort. Excess hormones and iron-heavy prenatal supplements can cause a change in your stool that leads to constipation. This constipation will continue throughout the pregnancy as your uterus expands and compresses your lower intestines, affecting the rectum. Both chronic constipation and the resulting hemorrhoids tend to subside within weeks of giving birth.