Hard stools at 22 weeks of pregnancy indicate the presence of constipation, which may be due to the increase in progesterone slowing down the peristalsis of the bowel, which is normal. However, it is also possible that the pregnant woman has hemorrhoids and other conditions, which is not normal.
Progesterone increases during pregnancy, and this hormone prevents uterine contractions from adversely affecting the fetus. Progesterone in the prevention of uterine contraction can also slow down the peristalsis, resulting in the emergence of constipation, when the pregnant woman in the bowel movement is more forceful, is normal.
However, if pregnant women have hemorrhoids and other pathological factors, due to anal discomfort, constipation can also occur, this time is not normal, if the symptoms are more serious need to be treated.
Women who continue to experience unrelieved straining to pass stools at 22 weeks of pregnancy are advised to visit a hospital and consult a doctor for specific interventions to alleviate the discomfort.