Constipation after giving birth

Pain, fear of opening the bowels, reduced activity and medicines used around delivery can all contribute. A pharmacist, midwife or doctor can recommend a gentle laxative that fits your recovery and feeding situation if simple measures are not enough.

Labour, fluid loss and eating less can leave stools dry. Iron tablets and some pain medicines can slow the bowel, while soreness from stitches, a tear, caesarean surgery or haemorrhoids can make you postpone going.

A bowel movement is unlikely to open properly repaired stitches. Holding a clean pad against the perineum may feel supportive, and keeping the feet on a low stool can reduce the need to strain.

Drink regularly and increase fibre gradually through vegetables, fruit, pulses and wholegrain foods. A sudden large fibre increase without enough fluid can worsen bloating. Walk gently as recovery allows, and use the toilet when the urge comes rather than delaying.

Check before stopping prescribed iron or pain relief. A clinician may adjust the preparation or add a stool-softening or osmotic laxative. Mention breastfeeding or chestfeeding and any other medicines so the option can be selected appropriately.

Contact your maternity team or doctor if constipation is not easing, bowel movements remain very painful, you cannot pass stool or wind, or you have new leakage of stool. Assessment is also appropriate for persistent rectal bleeding rather than assuming it comes from haemorrhoids.

Get urgent help for severe or increasing abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a markedly swollen abdomen, fainting, heavy bleeding, fever with feeling very unwell, or a painful wound that is opening or producing discharge.

Bring up the timing and consistency of bowel movements, pain from stitches or haemorrhoids, fluid intake and every medicine or supplement you take. Ask which laxative type is suitable, how to use it, and whether pelvic-floor or wound symptoms need a separate examination.