This is very embarrassing to talk about... I am 16 weeks pregnant for the past few weeks I have had serious constipation problems! I have tried miralax, staying hydrated and eating lots of fiber but I'm still having issues. I can produce a bowel movement but it takes a very long time and is very painful. Recently I have noticed that when I wipe there is a good bit a bright red blood on the tissue and I am just wondering if this is normal or who I should see if it isn't. I had no problems with my friend pregnancy so this is a little mind boggling.

Constipation during pregnancy is sadly not at all uncommon.

It's best to talk to your OBGYN about this, especially since you're passing bright red blood while defecating.

Very common and very annoying! Go slowly with the fiber intake. Too much too fast can make the constipation worse. You might try the old standby of prune juice or orange juice (prunes and oranges can be even better). You definitely will want to be sure to increases fluids (avoiding caffeinated drinks) as you increase fiber.

Get some daily exercise as well... walking is great. See your doctor about the bleeding... likely hemorrhoids or small tears. Also not uncommon but your doctor will suggest something, often an over the counter help, and may suggest alternative support for the constipation as well, perhaps at least a stool softener.