Is Senna Safe During Pregnancy?

Senna may not be suitable if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Constipation is common at the end of pregnancy and just after having a baby. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's better to ease constipation without taking a medicine.

Does senna cause birth defects?

Among laxative drugs, senna has no teratogenic potential; thus, if severe constipation requires laxative drug treatment in pregnant women, senna is not contraindicated.

Is there a safe laxative to take while pregnant?

One mild laxative, considered to be safe to take during pregnancy, is Milk of Magnesia. Your doctor may also recommend taking a bulk-producing agent like Metamucil. Lastly, your doctor may suggest a stool softener, which contains docusate, to reduce constipation.