Question:
I'm 2 1/2 weeks post op and have very uncomfortable constipation

I have a lot of pressure but can not have a bowel movement. I was thinking prune juice but, I would have to delute it because I still can not have full strenghth juice. I am on a pureed diet. Would this still help??? Has anyone tried colace and does it bring quick relief???    — Jennifer F. (posted on May 4, 2002)

May 4, 2002
I used Colace post-op and it worked well, but none of these seemed to work too terribly quickly! The bowels do settle down after a while, I promise! Best Wishes!
   — Molly S.

May 4, 2002
Three words: Milk Of Magnesia. Many, many surgeons recommend it for their patients because it isn't harsh and actually helps settle an "upset pouch". Good Luck!
   — LaRayne H.

May 4, 2002
What is your water intake like? I found that the more water I drank, the better things moved. It's sooo hard to fit in, but even if you take something to help your bowels move, they all say to take with water. If you don't you may get even more backed up.
   — Kim M.

May 4, 2002
I had exactly the same problem during the first few weeks post-op. My answer was a daily dose of sugar-free orange flavored Citrucel powder dissolved in water. I liked it best when I added ice and the liquid was very cold. You have to drink it right away, because the longer the drink sits, the thicker it gets! Did the trick gently and effectively. Took a couple days to begin and then it kept me regular. Even tasted decent.
   — Kathy J.

May 4, 2002
: ) Just a little bit of fun tidbit of information after reading one of the posters answers - if you go the Milk of Magnesia way - know that it's also good for clearing your complexion !! Don't ask how I found this out but it is - great on zits, great on opening pores and making you feel fresh. Sleep with one over night and WOWZERS - it's like visiting a day spa. : ) hehehe - things that make you go HMMMMMM
   — Lisa J.

May 4, 2002
I drank diluted, no sugar added, apple juice and it did the job for me. Also, as a previous poster pointed out, you have to get your fluids in. It will help a lot! And, exercise will aid in that department as well. Just do some walking, go around the block a couple of times each day.
   — Susan M.

May 5, 2002
I have used Ducolax supposotories and they work every time. Relief comes in about 45 minutes and no cramping. Best part....no "afer effect" the next day or evening or whatever. One suppository....relief....and then carry on! LOL!
   — Marilyn C.

May 5, 2002
My Dr. advised Milk of Magnesia for this problem. The cherry flavored one isn't too bad. I only took a child's dosage and it worked within the day. Also it really helps to make sure that you are getting enough fluids in. You can try juice (the 100% kind and not a "cocktail") but I would dilute it with a little water so that it's not too sweet. Good Luck and God Bless.
   — Leah H.