Postpartum Constipation

Feels like I am laboring for the second time after giving birth to DS.

I forgot how horrible it feels to be constipated after the c-section, but I have been drinking gallons of Chinese red dates tea and eating prunes in anticipation of this problem.Finally five days after giving birth, I did it.

Having a big bowel movement never felt so good. Now I know why my babies are always in a better mood when they had a big bowel movement.


Here are some tips for preventing and easing constipation from BabyCenter.com

• Never ignore the urge to move your bowels, even though it might be uncomfortable the first few times. The longer you wait, the harder your stool will get, which will only make your pain worse.
• Make an effort to eat high-fiber foods such as whole-grain cereals and breads, brown rice, beans, and fresh fruits and vegetables every day.
• Drink plenty of water – at least six to eight glasses a day. (You'll need even more if you're breastfeeding.) A daily glass of fruit juice, especially prune juice, can be helpful. Some people find that drinking warm liquid soon after waking up helps get things moving.
• Go for a walk. Walking may be painful at first, especially if you're recovering from a c-section or an episiotomy, but even a short trip around the block can help kick your sluggish bowels into gear.
• Ask your doctor or midwife whether you should take a stool softener (sold over the counter at any drugstore). You'll need to start taking one right away if you have a tear that extends into or through your sphincter. Stool softeners are also helpful if you're suffering from hemorrhoids or taking high-dose iron supplements for anemia or narcotics for pain relief.