Hi,I am Dr. Subhankar Chakraborty (Gastroenterologist). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
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?
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.
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
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.