constipation

**BMC** · 11-23-2011 09:28 PM

I know that I am asking a lot questions on this forum, but I'm depending on those of you who have experience getting over this surgery. I haven't had a bowel movement since the night before I had my surgery on Monday. Is this normal? Should I use and enema or some other kind of laxative? I took some miralax today for the first time. Please share your experiences.

**jno86** · 11-23-2011 09:57 PM

my doc said if after 2 days u havent had one u can take something. miralax worked good for me

**michelleb** · 11-23-2011 10:24 PM

Miralax or milk of magnesia works really well.

**Sunflower** · 11-23-2011 10:49 PM

The sooner you can get off narcotic pain meds, the quicker you will be able to poo. In the meantime, a mild laxative or stool softener should help things move along--also try to hydrate as much as you can. Good luck!

**splendaaa** · 11-23-2011 10:51 PM

I drink Miralax every night. Yes, it's normal.

**VSGOct2011** · 11-23-2011 11:31 PM

Video by Dr Alvarez about frequency/consistency of bowel movements post-operatively. If you 'youtube' him he has videos there for just about any pre-post sleeve topic you can think of. He replies to patient questions and shares them there for anyone to view whether they had surgery with him or another doc. Very helpful resource.

BTW, drink lots of water - that will definitely help. Also, you aren't putting much food in, so it makes sense that you aren't going to get much out.

VSG Q&A's: Bowel Movements after Gastric Sleeve - YouTube

**nycbiscuit** · 11-24-2011 12:35 AM

Yes, it's normal, and a stool softener is a great idea, especially since you should not be straining so as to avoid a hernia.

**Allisharb** · 11-24-2011 01:45 AM

I am 5 days out, and I had my first one today, i wasn't worried as i have been mostly on clear liquids, and had only managed 1 protein drink. but as I increase my protein I will be adding benefiber into my diet as I did for my pre-op diet.