13 days post hysterectomy: When is my belly gonna go down and when will I have a real BM???

It's been 13 days since my total abdominal hysterectomy . Pain is much better still have discomfort . When is my belly gonna go down and when will I have a real BM???

My swelling started to go down at about 6 weeks. As far as the BM, what do you mean by a 'real' one? I assume that at 13 days, you have had some. Are you off of narcotics? They can contribute to bowel issues. Drinking water, eating fiber and walking, walking walking with help with the bowels.

Swelly belly will be your constant companion for many weeks to come. Some days it will be better, others worse. Movement helps to keep fluid from building up, I found I had great luck with wearing my belly binder and an ice pack. I'm almost 5 months post op and my swelly belly lasted through 12 weeks and even now, if I exercise really strenuously, I'll swell a bit at night. It is very normal (but annoying).

I see coughy16 asked the same things I would - are you having any bowel movements? If they are hard and small, you may benefit from a stool softener. Hydration is key so juices, water, soups or teas and natural high-fiber foods like apples and prunes can help regulate you. Try to steer clear of gassy (beans, broccoli, onions) or greasy foods. Finally, narcotics can cause constipation so if you are still taking them, that could be the leading cause of you discomfort.

The swelling could be related to your bowel issues, so addressing those can also help. In addition to what the others have recommemded, try increasing your intake of magnesium, which can help to normalize bowel function; good sources include leafy greens, nuts and seeds, dark chocolate, or a good quality supplement. Try a smoothie with almond milk, spinach, cherries and ground flaxseeds; that's what ultimately worked for me. As for tea, my go-to for constipation is peppermint. In addition to beans, onions, and broccoli, foods to avoid include cabbage and its other relatives, cucumbers, melons, pears, and artificial sweeteners. Best wishes for your continued recovery!

Thanks ladies! I am having small BMs (rocks). I stopped taking the heavy meds just sticking with Motrin. The swelling will last THAT long?????! I'm just hanging in here!

Check with your doctor about stool softeners, I was on Docalce 2x a day, but used Milk of Magnesia the 3rd day after surgery. I was so swollen and uncomfortable until I was able to go. I also found that laying on my left side was helpful too. Drinking fluids helped a bunch. Feel better soon!

Apparently the pain meds (I had Motrin & Percocet) contribute to constipation. A natural laxative called Swiss Kriss worked for me, there's a delay of a few hours described on the bottle before it takes effect. I had a small amount of cramping with it but it is effective, and I didn't think the gel caps they sent me home with worked at all.

feel better soon!!