Laparotomy Post Op Bowel issue

[ottap]

44 y/o Post-op from Laparotomy to remove large (10cm) cystic mass with ovary and F-tube on 4/28.  Thankfully no cancer!!
I have been home 2+ days from the hospital - passed small amount of gas and stool before discharge (but horrible room mate and HAD to get out of there to heal). I have been controlling pain with Ibuprofen only (to avoid constipation).
I am walking, eating small amounts of soft, high fiber foods, drinking water and taking a stool softener. I still have not had a bowel movement and am getting very bloated with increasing pain. Just wondering if this is a cause to contact my MD (it is Sunday), just do a store bought mild suppository (Dulcolax) or chill out and let things happen naturally.
Input appreciated (or really OUT put wanted). My humor has returned thankfully.
Best to all - this forum has be great throughout my ordeal.

[ravewaker]

I would definitely get on a daily fiber drink and also take honey/lemon tea.  Just heat some water and add honey and lemon to it.  Drink tons of water.  I have IBS and have had many problems with my digestion over the yrs. Stool softeners will help, but shouldn't be taken for a long period of time.  It's better to use a fiber drink and eat foods that are high in fiber and to keep your body well hydrated. Avoid foods that can increase constipation, such as cheese or banans.  An internet search will give you an idea of foods high in fiber and those that contribute to constipation.  Good luck, and hope you feel normal soon!

[ottap]

Thank you both so much for your posts. It's easier discussing this issue online than when people come to visit. I am better, definitely not normal. I might try the "milk".   I am a triathlete and not used to being so sedentary. Body parts are starting to hurt from being stagnant. I am able to do gentle stretching w/o abs and am going to try to find a post-op massage therapist.  Thanks again and best to all!

[ireneo]

I've been wondering if things have loosened up a bit. It sounds like you're doing some potty time, just not the usual volume. (what a lovely subject)  But if some is coming out, that means no blockage. Also, the tenderness and bloating just from the surgery itself will linger for a few weeks. Not great news but the way they poke around and stir things up in there to get to the ovary is not gentle. You're right - don't overdo the activity but do get up and walk around a few minutes now and then. Glad there's no fever. No straining either please. Here's wishing you happy poops.

[justscore]

My Dr told me to take Milk Of Magnesia for a week or so.  I didn't listen to him the first time and found out the hard/painful way that I should have listened.  The lasy surgery, I listened and it was MUCH better!

Good luck.....
Heidi

[ottap]

Thank you for your reply. I broke down and called the MD. They were surprised also and recommended a suppository.  I am better, but not great.  Increased pain is not what I wanted, but no fever.  I think I may have overdone the walking to try to get things going.
Thanks again for your reply.  Be well all.

[ireneo]

That is quite a long time for no BM. Have you passed any stool at all, even little grape's worth? Check your temp. If you have a fever, you should go in ASAP. If no fever, then keep up with the fluids and stool softeners. A glycerin suppository might ease the passage but don't do any laxative stuff. It took me about 3 days to break loose and the bloating was so miserable. I'm sorry you're having an even rougher time.