HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Having Constipation. Operation To Be Done For Vaginal Posterior Wall Repair. Any Suggestion?

default
Posted on Wed, 17 Apr 2013
Question: I need immediate relief from constipation. On Monday I had an operation for a 'vaginal posteria wall repair'. I have not been able to go to the toilet since Monday morning. The stools are right down near the exit but cannot go through. The pain in awful and I have been advised not to push. My diet has been of leafy vegetables, fruit plus cereals. I am also drinking plenty of fluids, about half an hour ago I drank a table spoon of flax oil. Any suggestions.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Enrique Molina (1 hour later)
Hi XXXXXX,
after an abdominal or pelvic surgery it is relatively common to become constipated. Manipulation of the organs in the abdomen inevitably involves movement or contact with the bowels, and these as a "reflex" get paralyzed, which makes you constipated. This usually last a few hours or days, depending on the person. If you take pain medications after surgery it is more likely you will become constipated.
The fact that you feel the stool are near the exit but cannot go through is secondary to the surgery. You can use fleet enemas (sold at any pharmacy over the counter), however if you are concerned about manipulating the bottom area after a recent surgery, I would suggest you taking stool softener (such as colace or senna) plus a laxative (such as miralax, milk of magnesia), until you achieve a bowel movement.
Also keep in mind that drinking plenty of water is helpful, and moving and walking around stimulates bowel motility.
Hope that helps, let me know if you have any further questions
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Enrique Molina

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 364 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Having Constipation. Operation To Be Done For Vaginal Posterior Wall Repair. Any Suggestion?

Hi XXXXXX,
after an abdominal or pelvic surgery it is relatively common to become constipated. Manipulation of the organs in the abdomen inevitably involves movement or contact with the bowels, and these as a "reflex" get paralyzed, which makes you constipated. This usually last a few hours or days, depending on the person. If you take pain medications after surgery it is more likely you will become constipated.
The fact that you feel the stool are near the exit but cannot go through is secondary to the surgery. You can use fleet enemas (sold at any pharmacy over the counter), however if you are concerned about manipulating the bottom area after a recent surgery, I would suggest you taking stool softener (such as colace or senna) plus a laxative (such as miralax, milk of magnesia), until you achieve a bowel movement.
Also keep in mind that drinking plenty of water is helpful, and moving and walking around stimulates bowel motility.
Hope that helps, let me know if you have any further questions