Constipation is one of the most common (and uncomfortable) symptoms experienced during pregnancy. Between shifting hormones, a growing uterus, and iron supplements, it’s no surprise many pregnant women seek relief. Two frequently recommended options are Colace and Miralax—but what’s the difference, and which is right for you?
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we help women manage pregnancy symptoms safely and effectively. Here’s what you need to know about these two constipation relief options.
What Is Colace?
Colace is a brand name for docusate sodium, a stool softener. It works by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It does not stimulate bowel movements but rather helps reduce straining.
- Category: Stool softener
- How it works: Softens the stool by increasing water content
- Onset: Works within 12 to 72 hours
- Use in pregnancy: Generally considered safe when used as directed
- Best for: Mild constipation or women trying to prevent constipation (e.g., due to iron supplements)
What Is Miralax?
Miralax is a brand name for polyethylene glycol 3350, an osmotic laxative. It works by pulling water into the colon to increase the frequency of bowel movements.
- Category: Osmotic laxative
- How it works: Increases water in the colon to promote bowel movements
- Onset: Typically works within 24 to 72 hours
- Use in pregnancy: Considered safe for occasional use, with your provider’s approval
- Best for: More persistent constipation or cases where stool softeners are not enough
Key Differences Between Colace and Miralax
| Feature | Colace | Miralax |
| Type: | Stool softener | Osmotic laxative |
| Action: | Softens stool | Stimulates bowel movement |
| Speed: | 12–72 hours | 24–72 hours |
| Daily use: | Often safe for short-term use | Safe occasionally with provider’s OK |
| Effectiveness: | Better for prevention | Better for treatment |
Which One Should You Use?
That depends on your symptoms:
- Choose Colace if you have mild constipation or want to prevent it, especially if taking iron supplements.
- Choose Miralax if you’re already constipated and need a gentle laxative to get things moving.
Never combine these without checking with your provider, and don’t use them for long periods without medical supervision.
Safe Relief with Expert Guidance
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we guide our patients through all stages of pregnancy—including managing common issues like constipation. While both Colace and Miralax are generally safe, we always recommend discussing your symptoms and medication use with your OB provider before starting anything new.
Need help choosing the right remedy for your pregnancy symptoms? Schedule your appointment today.
Further Reading:
Your Guide to Pregnancy
Constipation is one of the most common (and uncomfortable) symptoms experienced during pregnancy. Between shifting hormones, a growing uterus, and iron supplements, it’s no surprise many pregnant women seek relief. Two frequently recommended options are Colace and Miralax—but what’s the difference, and which is right for you?
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we help women manage pregnancy symptoms safely and effectively. Here’s what you need to know about these two constipation relief options.
What Is Colace?
Colace is a brand name for docusate sodium, a stool softener. It works by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. It does not stimulate bowel movements but rather helps reduce straining.
- Category: Stool softener
- How it works: Softens the stool by increasing water content
- Onset: Works within 12 to 72 hours
- Use in pregnancy: Generally considered safe when used as directed
- Best for: Mild constipation or women trying to prevent constipation (e.g., due to iron supplements)
What Is Miralax?
Miralax is a brand name for polyethylene glycol 3350, an osmotic laxative. It works by pulling water into the colon to increase the frequency of bowel movements.
- Category: Osmotic laxative
- How it works: Increases water in the colon to promote bowel movements
- Onset: Typically works within 24 to 72 hours
- Use in pregnancy: Considered safe for occasional use, with your provider’s approval
- Best for: More persistent constipation or cases where stool softeners are not enough
Key Differences Between Colace and Miralax
| Feature | Colace | Miralax |
| Type: | Stool softener | Osmotic laxative |
| Action: | Softens stool | Stimulates bowel movement |
| Speed: | 12–72 hours | 24–72 hours |
| Daily use: | Often safe for short-term use | Safe occasionally with provider’s OK |
| Effectiveness: | Better for prevention | Better for treatment |
Which One Should You Use?
That depends on your symptoms:
- Choose Colace if you have mild constipation or want to prevent it, especially if taking iron supplements.
- Choose Miralax if you’re already constipated and need a gentle laxative to get things moving.
Never combine these without checking with your provider, and don’t use them for long periods without medical supervision.
Safe Relief with Expert Guidance
At A Woman’s Place in Naples, FL, we guide our patients through all stages of pregnancy—including managing common issues like constipation. While both Colace and Miralax are generally safe, we always recommend discussing your symptoms and medication use with your OB provider before starting anything new.
Need help choosing the right remedy for your pregnancy symptoms? Schedule your appointment today.
Further Reading:
Your Guide to Pregnancy
