I'm worried about constipation.

Constipation has been my lifelong enemy. Even as a young child, I was tortured by it. It is normal for me to have to strain very hard at least 2 or 3 times a month. Sometimes I feel like I'm giving birth! I am very worried about this happening after I've had the TVH Thursday. Can someone PLEASE offer some advice on keeping regular and stool softening, before it's "too late"? This could be a major problem for me. I will have my pre-op visit with the Dr. tomorrow, and I intend to discuss it with her. But I'm hoping someone here can share something that worked for her. Help!

Jan

Your concern is valid. A lot of us have suffered from constipation--although not all of us. Since you're prone to it anyway, I think discussing it with your dr. BEFORE surgery is a great idea. I have had a picture perfect recovery--better than anyone could imagine. But I have been plagued by the horrid poo poo monster. My dr. didn't seem too worried about it but I sure have been! I've tried stool softners, fiber pills, suppositories, & enemas. The stool softners seem to help, but not consistently. I'll tell you what finally made me "go". Last night I took Stimulant-Free Milk of Magnesia (French Vanilla flavor) at about 10:00 p.m. I woke up at 6 a.m. and "went". It was liquid--LOTS of it. But no cramps or pain. I was worried about going to work (like that commercial..."When will your diahrrea kick in?") but I only went that one time. I plan to keep taking the stool softners (2 in the morning and 2 at night) and use the M.O.M. as needed for "emergencies".

Drink lots of water. I think that is the most important thing. Take short walks. Exercise will help move things along
Also ask about a stool softener.


Votelady

Jan,
Drink lots of water and consider a stool softerner like Colace. Exercise will definitely help move things along!! Take care!

Two to three dried plums (prunes) with breakfast have always helped me.

I too have the same surgery date as you and also battle constipation, my has been so bad that I devolped diverticulitis (which is pockets in my colon). I take an herbal medicine normally but, since I can't take it for two weeks before the surgery I have been battling the const monster too. I feel much better when I'm on my medicine. I worry about not being able to go after the surgery too. But, I think if we take the stool softners it will help.

Good luck with surgery and pre op I go today....

Denise