Postpartum pooping: The fear is real (and normal)

Mum, good job!

You gave birth to a little human. You have successfully navigated labour or had a serious abdominal surgery (C-section) and now you are embarking on the incredible journey that is motherhood. Among all the excitement and exhaustion, the first postpartum bowel movement is an unacknowledged concern for many new mothers. If the thought of that first poop after giving birth makes you shiver, you're not alone. The concern is genuine, and it is quite normal.

Why is postpartum poop so horrible?

Let's face it, your body has just experienced a major event. Your pelvis and core have been badly wounded and stretched, regardless of whether you gave birth vaginally or via C-section. Some common causes for why having your first bowel movement can be so frightening include the following:

If you delivered vaginally, you may have sutures from a rip or episiotomy. The idea of straining can be terrifying. Even without stitches, your perineum is likely to be bloated and painful.
If you delivered via C-section, you will experience pain and discomfort from the abdominal incision. You will not be able to push with your core muscles for a while, as you could hurt yourself or rupture your stitches.
Even if it leads to a C-section, pushing during labour may exacerbate haemorrhoids. Naturally occurring haemorrhoids might happen during pregnancy. Pooping can be very uncomfortable due to these swollen veins.
If your abdominal muscles appear weak or nonexistent, it could be challenging to provide the necessary pressure. Changes in the sensation of the pelvic nerve may also occur temporarily. Mothers who have had caesarean sections have experienced extreme weakness and difficulty moving their abdominal muscles.
Due to hormonal changes, iron supplements, painkillers (particularly opioids), and dehydration during labour, constipation can make it more difficult to pass stool. Due to the effects of anaesthesia and abdominal surgery slowing down bowel function, this is especially frequent following a C-section.
It might be unnerving to feel as though you have no control over your body after the traumatic experience of childbirth, even if it's only for a bowel movement.

Reducing fear and discomfort

You can take a lot of proactive measures to make your first postpartum poop (and the subsequent ones) considerably easier, even though the worry is real.

The importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated! Your stool will be softer and easier to pass if you drink water. Carry a bottle of water with you and drink from it all day.
Include foods high in fibre in your diet. Consider whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Your doctor may suggest a fibre supplement if your diet isn't sufficient.
Your doctor will probably suggest or prescribe a stool softener rather than a laxative. By pulling water into the stool, these make it softer and less difficult to pass without straining. Beginning to take them while in the hospital is essential for preventing firm stools, particularly following a C-section.
Don't push yourself. Go when you're tempted. Repressing it can exacerbate constipation.
Using perineal bottle (Peri Bottle) for vaginal deliveries. During a bowel movement, gently spritz your perineum with warm water. Urine and stool may become less bothersome as a result of this, and the warm water may also have calming effects.
Use mild pressure to support the incision. If given birth vaginally, you can cover your perineum with a wad of toilet paper or a clean pad and gently push. This might provide one a feeling of safety and assistance. For mothers who have had a C-section, it is very important, while you bear down, gently put a cushion or a rolled-up towel onto your incision. This lessens the tension associated with damaging your incision by providing counter-pressure and support.
Optimise your position. For many new moms, this is where a toilet stool (like the one we provide!) may make all the difference. A more natural, relaxed, and thorough evacuation is made possible by elevating your feet when using the loo, which alters the angle of your rectum. This lowers the need for strain and simulates a squatting position, which is physiologically optimum for urinating. This position can help C-section women move stool more easily and with less force from their abdominal muscles.
Calm down. It's easier said than done, we realise! On the other hand, strain and stress can make your pelvic floor tight. Aim for deep breathing techniques both prior to and during your bowel movement.
Don't rush! Take your time and be alone.
Gentle movement! Walking lightly, when your doctor gives the all-clear, can help get your digestive system working and encourage bowel movement, which is particularly crucial following a C-section.
Consult your physician. Do not be afraid to consult your physician if you are suffering from extreme pain, prolonged constipation, or no bowel movement after a few days. They are able to provide more guidance and answers.

You're capable, Mama.

Although the initial postpartum poop is a challenge, it is only brief. Regardless of whether you had a C-section or a vaginal birth, keep in mind that your body is extraordinary at healing and recuperating. You will be able to handle this typical postpartum difficulty more easily and confidently if you take these proactive measures and practise self-compassion. Also, keep in mind that purchasing equipment that supports your body's natural processes—such as a well-made toilet stool—can have a surprisingly positive impact on your journey towards digestive health and postpartum comfort. If you can overcome childbirth, you can overcome this as well!

Tags: child birth Pooping Postpartum Pregnant

July 17, 2025

Knowing the symptoms, causes, and signs of constipation

Your body changes significantly during the pregnancy and the postpartum recovery period. One frequent but unspoken problem that might occur amid the excitement and fatigue is constipation. It can have a big impact on your comfort and general well-being, so it's more than simple irritation. The first important step in seeking relief and preserving digestive health during these critical periods is knowing exactly what constipation is, its causes, and how to recognise it. Constipation: What is it? Despite being a commonly used term, "constipation" has many meanings. It usually refers to infrequent bowel movements, usually occurring less than three times a week. But it's not just about how frequently you visit. Additionally, constipation can include: Difficulties with passing stools: You may feel as though there is a blockage, strain, or push too hard. Hard, dry stools: One important sign is the consistency of your stool. People who are constipated frequently pass hard, lumpy, or pebble-like stools that are challenging and occasionally unpleasant to pass. Feeling of incomplete evacuation: You may continue to have discomfort even after having a bowel movement if you feel as though your bowels haven't completely emptied. Abdominal discomfort: Constipation frequently comes with bloating, gas, cramps, and general abdominal pain. It's crucial to keep in mind that everyone has different "normal" bowel habits. Bowel movements occur every day for some people and every other day for others. Recognising a deviation from your typical pattern or the persistent presence of symptoms is crucial. Which common causes of constipation, particularly for women who are pregnant or recently gave birth, exist? There are a number of variables, from a mix of lifestyle decisions, hormonal changes, physical changes in pregnancy and the healing process after giving birth, that can cause constipation. Common sins that impact everyone Eating low-fiber diet. Fibre makes your faeces softer and easier to pass by giving it more volume. One of the main causes of constipation is a diet low in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Being dehydrated. Water is essential for maintaining the softness of your stool and facilitating its passage through your digestive system. Stools that are hard and dry can come from consuming too little fluid. Lack of movement. Exercise encourages regular bowel movements by stimulating the muscles in your intestines. Living a sedentary lifestyle can cause delays. Disregarding the need to poop. Over time, your body's natural rhythm may be upset if you consistently suppress your natural urge to have a bowel movement. This will make passing stool tougher and more difficult. Changes in routine. Increased stress, travel, or changes in your daily routine can all cause problems with regular bowel motions. Particular reasons for expectant and postpartum women Hormonal changes during pregnancy and after giving birth, in particular the increase in progesterone during pregnancy relax all of the body's muscles, including those in the digestive tract, which slows the time it takes for the stool to pass. Gut mobility may continue to be impacted by hormonal changes following childbirth. Physical strain on the intestines during pregnancy comes from the growing uterus, which makes it more difficult for srool to pass through effectively. Iron supplements are a well-known source of constipation. They are frequently recommended during pregnancy in order to prevent anaemia. Painkillers during postpartum, especially opioids, can considerably impair bowel movement if they are used after a C-section or vaginal delivery. For many new mothers, the worry of breaking stitches or straining their C-section incision can cause them to "hold it in," which only makes their abdominal pain worse. Mothers may ignore their own hydration and regular, nutrient-dense food intake due to the responsibilities of nursing or caring for a newborn. These factors are both essential for regular, healthy bowel movements. During childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles, which are essential for bowel movements, may strengthen or stretch, impairing their capacity to perform at their best. Constipation signs Your bowel movements and any accompanying symptoms should be closely monitored in order to diagnose constipation. The following are some questions to ask yourself: How frequently do I go to the toilet? Does this pattern occur less frequently than usual? Are you regularly going less than three times a week? To what extent is my stool solid? Is it bumpy, challenging, or hard to pass? The Bristol Stool Chart, which shows constipation frequently in Types 1 and 2, can be a useful visual aid. Does trying to have a bowel movement cause me any pain or suffering? Do you have too much strain? Do you experience an obstruction or insufficient emptying? After having a bowel movement, do I feel as though my bowels are empty? Or do you still have a persistent craving or a feeling of fullness? Do I have other symptoms, such as excessive gas, stomach pain, or ongoing bloating? You are most certainly suffering from constipation if you say "yes" to a number of these questions. When to get medical advice It's important to consult your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, even though occasional constipation is common and usually manageable with lifestyle modifications: Abdominal behaviours that change suddenly and without explanation and last longer than a few weeks. Severe cramping or pain in the abdomen. You have blood in your stool. Unexplained loss of weight. Constipation that does not go away with self-care techniques like drinking more water, eating more fibre, and moving gently. In addition to suggesting the best course of treatment for your particular circumstance, your doctor can assist in identifying the underlying reason of your constipation. Managing the health of your digestive system The first step in effectively controlling constipation is knowing what it is, its typical causes, and how to recognise it. You can start making proactive lifestyle adjustments and, if necessary, seek medical help by being aware of these factors. We'll go into more detail in our next blog entries about how to avoid and treat constipation, including the advantages of good toilet posture—which a supporting stool can help with—to facilitate more comfortable and easy bowel movements. Watch this space for additional tips on how to have a healthy and happier stomach throughout your pregnancy and after giving birth!

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June 30, 2025

The gut-brain connection: How stress and emotions impact digestive health

There is a complicated two-way communication link between the brain and the digestive system called the gut-brain axis. Numerous communication routes are highlighted, such as the gut bacteria, neurotransmitters (including serotonin), and the vagus nerve. According to the report, emotions and stress can have a direct effect on gut health, resulting in problems like dysbiosis, elevated sensitivity, and altered motility. By producing neurotransmitters and sending out inflammatory signals, the gut condition can also have an impact on mood and stress levels. The article stresses the significance of maintaining this relationship through stress reduction, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration, particularly for expectant and postpartum women.

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June 24, 2025