Bowel Movements

Evidence 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8094226/ 

Eunice B Turawa, Alfred Musekiwa, Anke C Rohwer -Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group 

Postpartum constipation, with symptoms, such as pain or discomfort, straining, and hard stool, is a common condition affecting mothers. Haemorrhoids, pain at the episiotomy site, effects of pregnancy hormones, and haematinics used in pregnancy can increase the risk of postpartum constipation. Eating a high‐fibre diet and increasing fluid intake are usually encouraged.  

Education 

After you have a baby, it might be hard or scary to do a poo. Your tummy and bottom might feel sore and you may feel like holding it in. But doing a poo is a normal part of healing. 

It is common to feel constipated after giving birth. This means your poo is hard, dry, or hard to push out. This can happen because of changes in your body, medicine you took during pregnancy, or not moving around as much after birth. 

Here are some simple things that can help: 

• Drink lots of water – aim for 6–8 glasses a day. 

• Eat foods with fibre – like fruit, veggies, wholegrain bread, and cereals. 

• Move your body – gentle walks can help your tummy work better. 

• Don’t rush – take your time when you go to the toilet. 

• Don’t hold it in – when you feel like you need to go, try to go soon. 

If you had stitches from a tear or a C-section, it’s okay to feel nervous. Try holding a clean pad or your hand over the sore spot if it helps you feel more comfortable. 

If you are still having trouble, talk to your doctor or midwife. They can help with gentle medicine or other tips to make it easier. 

Faecal incontinence 

Some mums may notice they leak poo or gas (wind) without meaning to. This is called faecal incontinence. It can happen because the muscles and nerves in your bottom are weak or stretched after birth, especially if you had a big tear or forceps were used. 

If you’re leaking poo or having trouble getting to the toilet in time, speak to your doctor, midwife or a women’s health physio. You don’t have to feel embarrassed – many mums go through this, and help is available. 

Empowerment 

Many mums have trouble with their bowels after giving birth, this is very normal and it usually gets better. 

Your body is strong and can heal. Your tummy and bottom will feel better over time. 

You can help yourself by: 

• drinking water, 

• eating healthy foods, 

• walking a little every day 

• listening to your body when you need to go. 

If you feel worried or things are not getting better, talk to your midwife or doctor. They are there to help you feel safe and cared for. 

Looking after your body helps you feel stronger – for yourself and for your baby. 

Useful Links 

Women’s and Children’s hospital, North Adelaide  

https://cdn.wchn.sa.gov.au/downloads/WCH/women/postnatal/emptying-bladder-bowel-after-birth-fact-sheet.pdf 

RANZOG – The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists 

https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/First-Few-Weeks-Following-Birth.pdf 

The Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria 

https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/continence-information/faecal-incontinence 

Continence Health Australia 

https://www.continence.org.au/types-incontinence/faecal-incontinence 

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