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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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When Do Bowel Movements Become Normal After Surgery?

I am 7 days post op from a hysterectomy & other surgeries.
I have been having severe cramping & pain associated with bowel movements & also when needing to urinate. Yesterday, I took a laxative to get things moving. Today, still pain when I sit on the toilet. Is this normal & when can I expect things to get back on track?
Thu, 15 Dec 2016
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Internal Medicine Specialist 's  Response
Hello
I understand your concern.
You just had a hysterectomy and other surgeries ( I will assume abdominal). Strong pain medicines are given when you have these types of surgeries and they all have a side effect of causing constipation, in addition to having abdominal surgery which tends to move the bowels during the operation.
Each person heals differently, so times for recuperation will vary from person to person. Can take up to 3 to 4 weeks once off all pain medicines for bowels to return to normal. Keep up with liquid intake and start first with a bland diet. Laxatives are okay if ordered by your physician. You can also try mild abdominal massage which will help with bowel movements.
You mention that you have urinary symptoms. You likely had a urinary catheter placed during surgery. If urinary symptoms continue, you should be checked for a urinary tract infection.
I hope you feel better soon.
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When Do Bowel Movements Become Normal After Surgery?

Hello I understand your concern. You just had a hysterectomy and other surgeries ( I will assume abdominal). Strong pain medicines are given when you have these types of surgeries and they all have a side effect of causing constipation, in addition to having abdominal surgery which tends to move the bowels during the operation. Each person heals differently, so times for recuperation will vary from person to person. Can take up to 3 to 4 weeks once off all pain medicines for bowels to return to normal. Keep up with liquid intake and start first with a bland diet. Laxatives are okay if ordered by your physician. You can also try mild abdominal massage which will help with bowel movements. You mention that you have urinary symptoms. You likely had a urinary catheter placed during surgery. If urinary symptoms continue, you should be checked for a urinary tract infection. I hope you feel better soon.