Many women are anxious about opening their bowels for the first time after delivery, especially if they have had stitches. It is important that you try not to put off opening your bowels once you have had the urge to go, as this can make you more constipated.If you have been prescribed laxatives please use these as you will need to ensure that your stools remain soft but not watery. It is important to keep your stools like a ‘toothpaste’ consistency.To help prevent constipation you will need to maintain a good fluid update (2.5-3 litres if breastfeeding) and a healthy diet rich in fibre.Make sure you sit in a good position on the toilet to ensure you completely empty your bowels. The ideal position is:
knees higher than your hips (to do this place your feet on a step or point your toes)
lean forward and put yuor elbows on your knees
bulge your abdomen outwards as you take a breath in and straighen your spine
if you have discomfort, or are worried about the stitches you can hold a sanitary pad or a wad of tissues with your hand and apply pressure to the vagina and perineum
Piles (haemorrhoids)
Piles are swellings of the blood vessels inside or around the rectum, and are very common following pregnancy and birth. In most cases, piles will disappear without treatment within a few weeks of birth. Ask your midwife, doctor or local pharmacist for advice regarding piles if you think you may have them, or if they become painful.
