Does anyone know how long it is safe to keep taking stool softeners?

I still have occasional cramps depending upon what I eat. I seem to be quite regular. However I do miss the occasional day and then the next day seems to be more painful. I still take 2 stool softeners at night. It makes it more comfortable to go. Does anyone know how long it is safe to keep taking stool softeners?
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TLH 01/02/09

I think not too long... my doc was keen for me to take them but I dont know if they think the bowel gets lazy ..I know theyre not keen on over use of laxative.... I found it started to get extreme with me and I was rushing to the loo too often and the consistency got very poor ( trying not to be to graphic here) I weaned off then stopped half way through week three post op I think...

I wouldn't worry. As Sistermary mentioned, laxatives are the real concern when it comes to acquiring a "lazy colon." Perhaps you should move to a daily fiber therapy instead. That is something that you could use daily every day anyway. Lower estrogen levels can effect the lubrication that we have in our bowels, so using something is good. I ended up with a fissure, so I am for whatever it takes to be more comfortable.

Hi Sherby08
My dr ok'd me staying on them for a couple of months. He said they wouldn't hurt a thing and I didn't have any problems when I stopped taking them. I was very tender for a long time and didn't want to strain, so I used them and they were a help, psychologically, if nothing else. I would use them as long as you feel the need.
Rita