Post-pregnancy constipation relief

Recovery after birth can disrupt meals, movement and toilet routines. Soreness, fear of straining, iron supplements, opioid pain medicines and not drinking enough can make stools harder or less frequent. Constipation is different from a bowel blockage, and the cause cannot be identified from stool frequency alone.

Persistent symptoms can sometimes accompany dehydration, an underactive thyroid, irritable bowel syndrome or diverticular disease. Mention abdominal pain, bloating, bleeding, vomiting and any new medicines when you seek advice.

Drink regularly unless a clinician has limited your fluids. Add fibre slowly through vegetables, fruit, beans and whole grains, because a sudden increase can worsen gas and discomfort. Walk gently as recovery allows, respond to the urge to open your bowels and use a relaxed position with your feet supported. A pharmacist or doctor can recommend a suitable stool softener or laxative, especially if you are breastfeeding or taking iron.

Arrange medical advice for constipation that does not improve, repeated episodes or pain around a healing tear or surgical wound. Seek urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, repeated vomiting, inability to pass gas, heavy bleeding or black stools.

Ask whether iron or pain relief is contributing, which bowel medicine is compatible with feeding your baby, and whether your symptoms need examination for another cause.