A kinda yucky one to ask

I don't know about all of you, but I am lucky if I have a bowl movement once a week, is this normal, I honestly only go maybe once a week if that. Should I be eating something different or taking something to help me go?

Sherri, I think it is a bit abnormal to only have a bowel movement once a week. I thank my lucky stars that my bowel activicties are better now than before surgery. Have you always had this problem? Are you getting enough water? I think it is pretty safe to take a stool softener (not a laxative). You might want to check with your surgeon. I know this seems yucky but are your stools a good color? Are they dark or a light color? I'm not sure but you can perhaps take a fiber supplement. Good Luck, Corgimom 306/178/135? (still stuck on this darn plateau)

i agree, that's a little too infrequent. try fiberchoice chewables, i love them. they taste like the chewy sweettarts, which make them a treat rather than a chore. they're sugar-free.

Hi Sherri, I think the whole bowel thing is very personal. Some people are wired differently that others in that arena I guess. I usually have daily action but not always!. WHen I had my hernia repaired I went days with out a bowlel movement and that was not fun. I guess the best thing to do is ask your doctor. I am lactose intollerant and I can't do sugar alcohols so if I an a little behind then just pop in a sugar free canday or two and have a glass of milk and voila! all is well again. I hope you find a solution. maybe mix it up a bit with your food intake. A lot of protein does cause constipation. Terry

I just wanted to let you know that I feel your pain. I rarely have a bm and have tried lots of stuff and still have not found a good solution. I hope you find something that works for you.