Constipation often occurs due to anesthesia administered during surgery, as well as lower physical activity levels and the use of pain medications following it. People may be able to manage it with certain strategies, such as eating more fiber-rich foods and staying hydrated.

As the body is likely to be more sensitive or prone to damage than usual, it is best to use gentle constipation relief after an operation.

A person’s doctor can recommend appropriate medications, lifestyle changes, or other methods to relieve constipation after surgery.

Many people experience constipation after surgery due to the following factors:

  • Medications: Pain medications, diuretics, muscle relaxants, and anesthesia can cause constipation in some people. Opioids, in particular, can reduce bowel movements.
  • Dietary changes: Some people may need to avoid food before surgery, while others may need to restrict or change their diet for some time after the operation. Too little fluid and disrupted meal routines can cause constipation.
  • Reduced physical activity: Low physical activity levels can contribute to constipation. People recovering from surgery often need to rest for extended periods and avoid strenuous exercise. This lack of movement slows down the digestive system.

People experiencing constipation may notice:

  • a decrease in bowel movements, usually 3 or fewer per week
  • straining to pass stool
  • lumpy or hard stools
  • the sensation that the rectum is not empty, even after having a bowel movement
  • feeling as though there is a blockage in the rectum
  • needing help to empty the rectum, such as pressing on the stomach during a bowel movement
  • bloating or gas
  • pain in the stomach or rectum

Untreated constipation may lead to discomfort and potentially severe complications, such as:

  • A surgical incision reopening: This can occur if people have to strain to pass stool.
  • Hemorrhoids: These swollen veins in and around the anus are the result of straining to have a bowel movement.
  • Anal fissure: An anal fissure occurs when a large or hard stool causes skin in the anus to tear.
  • Fecal impaction: Chronic constipation can cause hard stool to become stuck in the intestines.
  • Rectal prolapse: Straining may cause part of the intestines to protrude from the anus.

It is vital to always ask a doctor before trying any constipation relief methods, as some strategies may not be safe after certain medical procedures.

The methods for constipation relief below may be adequate for people to use after surgery, as long as they follow the advice of a doctor.

Move around when possible

As soon as a doctor gives the go-ahead, people should start moving around. Going for short walks around the hospital or home, or doing other physical activities, will help move food through the intestines and stimulate a bowel movement.

If a person has movement restrictions after surgery, they should ask their doctor about the kinds of physical activity they can safely do.

Laxative medications

A doctor may prescribe a stool softener for people with post-surgical constipation.

These medications, which include docusate sodium (Colace), draw water from the intestines to moisten the stool. Moist stools are easier to pass.

Alternatively, a doctor may recommend a fiber laxative, such as psyllium husk fiber (Metamucil or Konsyl) or methylcellulose fiber (Citrucel). However, doctors do not recommend fiber laxatives for people whose constipation results from opioid medication use, as they could cause severe abdominal pain and potential bowel obstruction.

Other medications for constipation include:

  • Stimulants, such as bisacodyl (Ducodyl or Dulcolax), which make the intestines contract to produce a bowel movement.
  • Osmotic drugs, such as magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia), to move fluids through the colon.
  • Enemas and suppositories, which can soften the stool.

People should not take over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for constipation without speaking to a doctor first. Not all constipation medications are suitable for everyone, especially during post-surgery recovery.

Alternative pain relief

Many people take opioid drugs after surgery to reduce pain, but these drugs can also cause constipation.

For post-operative pain that is mild or moderate, OTC pain relievers offer an alternative treatment. Examples include ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol).

People experiencing constipation as a result of using opioids should speak to a doctor to see if other medications would be more appropriate for their needs.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a muscle relaxant and a primary ingredient in many laxative medications. It can relax the bowels to alleviate constipation.

A 2023 research review and analysis notes that magnesium oxide may improve bowel movement frequency and consistency.

However, anyone wishing to take magnesium for constipation should speak to a doctor first, as some people have a higher risk of magnesium toxicity and other complications.

Doctors can also check whether the magnesium will interact with any other medications that people are taking.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria and yeasts that play an important role in gut health. In particular, supplements that contain more than one species of probiotic may help produce more bowel movements with easier-to-pass consistencies.

As with any other relief method, it is important to speak with a doctor before taking probiotics for constipation after surgery.

Food and fluid intake, both before and after surgery, play an important role in preventing and managing post-operative constipation.

The following dietary tips can help people maintain regular bowel movements, but it is always best to follow a doctor’s specific advice on pre- and post-surgery eating plans.

Drink plenty of fluids

Dehydration can cause constipation. It is crucial to drink water regularly throughout the day to stay hydrated. Diluted fruit juices, such as prune juice, can also help.

It is also advisable to avoid high consumption of caffeinated drinks — such as coffee, tea, and soda – to avoid needing to urinate too often, which may cause dehydration.

Eat fiber-rich foods

Fiber helps stool pass through the digestive tract, and eating enough fiber per day may help relieve constipation.

  • fruits
  • vegetables
  • whole grains
  • nuts and seeds
  • beans and lentils

People who do not have a good appetite after surgery could try drinking a smoothie comprising blended fruits and vegetables to boost their fiber intake.

It is also important that people increase their fluid consumption when they begin to eat more fiber.

Avoid certain foods

Some foods are more likely than others to cause constipation. People should limit or avoid the following foods until constipation resolves:

  • dairy
  • processed foods
  • refined grains, such as white bread, white rice, and white pasta

Snack regularly

Consuming food can stimulate a bowel movement. Eating small, frequent meals may help ease constipation.

Many people with constipation following surgery will experience relief after a few days, especially if they receive treatment quickly.

Stool softeners and fiber laxatives tend to act within a few days, while stimulant laxatives and suppositories typically work within one day.

The exact amount of time that it takes will depend on several factors, including:

  • a person’s overall health
  • the duration of anesthesia
  • the type of medication

A person should speak to a doctor if their constipation persists for more than a few days.

Many people experience constipation after surgery due to pain medications, anesthesia, or a lack of movement following the procedure.

The outlook for people with constipation after surgery is generally good. Most people will feel better within a few days once they receive treatment.

Always speak to a doctor before taking medication for constipation, especially after surgery and when taking other medications, as some drugs can interact.