Why Constipation Is So Common After Hysterectomy
Constipation is one of the most frequent complaints during the first days and weeks after a hysterectomy. It’s frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful, but it’s also very normal.
There are a few common reasons this happens. First, anesthesia can temporarily slow or stop the natural movement of your intestines. This means your bowels may not “wake up” right away after surgery. Second, if you’re taking pain medication, especially opioids, these drugs often have a constipating effect. Add to that the fact that you're likely moving less than usual, drinking and eating differently, and dealing with hormonal shifts, and your digestive system ends up feeling the impact.
Some women also feel pressure or discomfort in their pelvic area when trying to go to the bathroom, making them hesitate or strain more than they should. All of these factors can delay your body’s return to normal function.
How Long Is Constipation Expected to Last?
Everyone’s body responds to surgery differently, but mild constipation often lasts for a few days after the procedure. For many, bowel movements begin to normalize within a week, especially as activity levels increase and diet becomes more consistent.
However, if you had abdominal surgery or are on a longer course of pain medications, it’s not unusual for constipation to linger for 1–2 weeks. The type of hysterectomy (vaginal, laparoscopic, abdominal) can also affect your timeline, with open procedures sometimes leading to slower digestive recovery.
Staying proactive with your habits and paying attention to your body’s cues can make a big difference in how long constipation lasts.
Best Ways to Relieve Constipation at Home
You don’t need to wait for discomfort to set in before taking action. In fact, the earlier you start supporting your digestive system, the better. Focus on gentle, natural solutions that keep things moving without adding strain to your body.
One of the easiest ways to start is by increasing your intake of fiber-rich, soft foods, think oatmeal, prunes, applesauce, and cooked vegetables. These are easier on the gut than raw salads and can help bulk and soften your stool. Alongside this, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Without hydration, fiber won’t be effective and may even worsen the problem.
Drinking something warm in the morning, like herbal tea or warm lemon water, can also help wake up your digestive system. And if your care team has cleared you to move, short walks around the house can be incredibly helpful. Light movement stimulates the intestines and encourages your body to return to its natural rhythm.
One more simple but powerful tip: try using a footstool to elevate your feet slightly while sitting on the toilet. This positioning helps open the rectum more naturally and can make bowel movements easier and less painful.
Should You Take a Laxative or Stool Softener?
It’s common to be prescribed or advised to take a stool softener after hysterectomy, especially if you’re on pain medication. These products help prevent hard stools and reduce the need to strain, something you want to avoid while your surgical site heals.
Laxatives, on the other hand, stimulate the bowel and should usually be considered only if gentler methods haven’t worked. Before turning to any medication, check with your doctor or care team. They’ll recommend the safest option based on your specific recovery.
Whatever you do, try not to push or strain. It may seem like the fastest route to relief, but it can increase abdominal pressure and slow healing.
What to Avoid During Recovery
While it’s tempting to try drastic fixes when you feel bloated and uncomfortable, there are a few things that can actually make constipation worse.
Skipping meals or drastically cutting back on food can reduce the cues your digestive system needs to move things along. It may seem logical to eat less while you’re backed up, but consistent meals, especially when they include fiber and hydration, are more helpful.
Also avoid delaying bathroom trips because you’re afraid of pain. The longer you wait, the harder the stool can become, increasing discomfort and making things even more difficult. And if you’re using fiber supplements, make sure you're pairing them with plenty of water. Without it, they can cause more bloating and worsen constipation.
When Constipation Might Be a Sign of Something More
While constipation is expected during the early stages of recovery, there are moments when it can signal a deeper issue. If you haven’t had a bowel movement after several days of trying gentle remedies, it’s worth reaching out to your provider.
Watch out for symptoms like:
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Severe or worsening abdominal pain
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A hard, distended belly
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Nausea or vomiting
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Inability to pass gas
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Rectal bleeding or sharp pain
These signs may point to a bowel obstruction or other post-surgical complication and shouldn’t be ignored.
Healing Includes Supporting Your Gut
Constipation might seem like a small issue in the grand picture of surgical recovery, but it affects your comfort, energy levels, and overall sense of well-being. The key is to support your body with steady, simple actions, hydration, movement, and gentle nourishment, while giving it time to adjust.
There’s no need to rush or power through pain. Take it one step at a time, and listen to what your body’s telling you. A healthy recovery includes caring for every part of you, including your digestive system.
