Constipation can happen in early pregnancy, but on its own it is not a reliable sign that you are pregnant. It is better thought of as a possible symptom that can appear along with more typical early signs like a missed period, breast tenderness, fatigue, nausea, and more frequent urination.

How constipation fits in

Hormonal changes in early pregnancy, especially higher progesterone, slow movement of the intestines, which can lead to harder stools and less frequent bowel movements. Many sources describe constipation as a common symptom during pregnancy and note it can appear in the first trimester, sometimes as early as the second or third month.

Is it an “early sign”?

Some pregnancy resources list constipation among early pregnancy symptoms, along with bloating and mood changes, because it can start relatively early in the first trimester for some people. Others stress that although it may occur early, it is not considered a classic first sign like a missed period; many non‑pregnancy factors (diet, low fluid intake, stress, medications, especially iron supplements) can also cause it.

What to do if you suspect pregnancy

If you have constipation plus other typical early symptoms and are sexually active without reliable contraception, taking a home pregnancy test after a missed period is the best next step. Regardless of pregnancy, persistent or severe constipation, pain, or rectal bleeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out other causes and to get safe treatment options.