Guide to Postpartum Stool Softening: Suggestions, Choices, and When to Request Assistance
Postpartum constipation is a common issue that many new mothers face. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on various remedies, both natural and pharmaceutical, to help alleviate this problem.
For those seeking pharmaceutical solutions, stool softeners are available in the form of tablets, capsules, syrup, and liquid. Two popular brands, Phillips' Stool Softener and DulcoEase Stool Softener, contain the active ingredient docusate sodium and are available for purchase online. Phillips' Stool Softener is recommended to be taken in one to three "easy-to-swallow liquid gels" per day, while DulcoEase Stool Softener can be taken up to three softgels a day for 7 days, always with water. Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener, another over-the-counter product, also contains docusate sodium and works in 12-72 hours.
However, it's important to note that stool softeners should be used for 1-3 days before seeing any benefits and should be discontinued after 2 weeks. Anyone experiencing persistent painful bowel movements or accompanying concerning symptoms should speak to a doctor.
For those preferring natural remedies, there are several effective options. Increasing dietary fiber intake is crucial. This can be achieved by consuming whole grains, beans, fresh fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods like prunes or prune juice. Prunes contain sorbitol, a natural laxative. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, and warm liquids in the morning, can also help soften stool and stimulate bowel movements.
Consuming soaked prune or raisin water on an empty stomach and adding ground flax seeds to meals can provide gentle natural laxative effects and improve stool passage. Including probiotics and prebiotics through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and miso, or specific probiotic supplements, can aid bowel regularity by improving gut health.
Herbal teas such as fennel, peppermint, or chamomile teas may soothe bloating and support digestion safely during breastfeeding. Lifestyle habits like sitting in a comfortable posture during breastfeeding and eating smaller, frequent meals can also help avoid gas and support digestion.
Experts emphasize that these natural approaches often work best together, focusing on a fiber-rich diet combined with adequate hydration and gut-friendly foods to ease postpartum constipation without reliance on pharmaceutical stool softeners.
It's worth mentioning that while some herbal remedies and laxatives are considered safe, always consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements or herbal treatments postpartum, especially when breastfeeding.
Most people have their first bowel movement within 2-3 days after delivery. However, constipation is a normal problem following delivery, with factors including hormonal effects, iron supplements, sore and stretched muscles, hemorrhoids, and discomfort due to an episiotomy. Experts say it is unlikely that a person could tear their stitches or sustain an injury while attempting a bowel movement.
In conclusion, whether you choose natural remedies or pharmaceutical stool softeners, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the best course of action for your specific situation. With the right approach, postpartum constipation can be effectively managed, allowing new mothers to focus on the joy of their new arrival.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Postpartum constipation. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/postpartum-constipation/faq-20068663
[2] American Pregnancy Association. (2021). Postpartum constipation. [online] Available at: https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-complications/postpartum-constipation/
[3] WebMD. (2021). Postpartum Constipation. [online] Available at: https://www.webmd.com/baby/tc/postpartum-constipation-topic-overview
[4] What to Expect. (2021). Postpartum Constipation. [online] Available at: https://www.whattoexpect.com/newborn/postpartum/postpartum-constipation.aspx
- The article provides a guide on remedies for postpartum constipation, which affects many new mothers.
- Stool softeners such as Phillips' Stool Softener, DulcoEase Stool Softener, and Colace Regular Strength Stool Softener can be found over-the-counter and online.
- Natural remedies for postpartum constipation include increasing dietary fiber, consuming fluids, and adding laxative foods like prunes or prune juice.
- Herbal teas like fennel, peppermint, or chamomile can soothe bloating and support digestion during breastfeeding.
- Gut-friendly foods and probiotics can aid bowel regularity and improve gut health.
- Consulting a healthcare provider before starting any postpartum supplements or herbal treatments, especially while breastfeeding, is essential.
