What should you know about constipation 1 month postpartum?

After delivery, bowel habits can be affected by reduced activity, changes in fluid intake, iron supplements, opioid pain medicines, a sore pelvic floor, or concern about straining. If there was a tear, stitches or haemorrhoids, passing stool may feel uncomfortable and lead to holding it in.

Constipation is common during recovery, but ongoing symptoms are not something you must simply endure. A clinician can review medicines, abdominal symptoms, pelvic-floor concerns and thyroid symptoms. Conditions such as hypothyroidism or irritable bowel syndrome may also affect bowel habits, though constipation alone does not establish either diagnosis.

Drink regularly, walk gently as your recovery allows, and respond to the urge to open your bowels. Increase fibre gradually through foods such as fruit, vegetables, pulses and whole grains, with enough fluid to support the change. A footstool and relaxed breathing may reduce straining.

Ask your maternity or primary-care team about a stool-softening or laxative option that fits your health, medicines and feeding plans. Do not stop prescribed iron or pain relief without discussing alternatives. Nutrition counselling may help if food, fluids or appetite have been difficult since delivery.

Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to pass gas, heavy rectal bleeding, faintness, or very little urine. Contact your maternity team promptly for worsening wound pain, fever, or constipation with new severe pelvic pain.

Could any of my supplements or pain medicines be contributing? Which bowel medicine is suitable while feeding? Do my pelvic-floor symptoms need review, and how long should I try the plan before contacting you again?