Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

Constipation After Surgery: Why It Happens and How to Manage It

Recovering from surgery takes time. A common problem many people face is constipation. It can make you feel uncomfortable and slow down healing. If you're in Houston, know this is a common issue.

This guide will explain why constipation happens after surgery, how to manage it safely, and what foods can help. At Gastrodoxs, we want your recovery to be smooth and comfortable.

Section 1: Why Constipation Happens After Surgery

After surgery, your body focuses on healing. But that can slow your gut.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a Houston-based surgeon, explains:

“Your body is using energy to heal and recover from anesthesia. That can slow how food moves through your system.”

Common reasons for post-surgery constipation:

• Anesthesia: Slows digestion for a day or two.
• Pain meds (especially opioids): Make stools harder.
• Less movement: Staying in bed slows bowel activity.
• Low water intake: IV fluids may not be enough.
• Low-fiber diet: Post-surgery diets are often low in fiber.

Tips that help:

• Take short walks or stretch gently.
• Ask your doctor about non-opioid pain relief.
• Sip water often—even small amounts help.

Section 2: What Causes Post-Surgery Constipation

Knowing the causes helps you treat it early.

• Anesthesia:
  - Slows gut movement
  - bowel function takes time to return.
• Opioids:
  - Relax gut muscles
  - Make stools dry and hard.
• Dehydration:
  - You may not feel thirsty, but your body still needs fluids.
• Low-Fiber Diet:
  - Soft or clear diets slow digestion.
• Low Physical Activity:
  - Staying in bed keeps the gut from moving.
• Pain and Stress:
  - Pain reduces movement; stress affects gut function.

Section 3: Medication Side Effects

Some medications make constipation worse. Talk to your care team about these:

• Opioids: Slow bowel function.
• Antacids with calcium or aluminum: Harden stools.
• Iron supplements: Often needed after blood loss, but can cause constipation.
• Anticholinergics: Rarely used, but may slow digestion.

Dr. Pothuri says: “Ask if your meds can be adjusted or spaced out.”

Section 4: How to Manage Constipation After Surgery

Drink More Fluids

• Sip water, herbal tea, or broth throughout the day.
• Aim for 8–10 cups daily (ask your doctor for your limit).

Add Gentle Fiber

• Try applesauce, bananas, or stewed prunes.
• Move on to oatmeal or cooked vegetables.

Get Moving Early

• Even short walks help your gut.
• Deep breathing and stretching also work.

Use Laxatives Safely

• Docusate (Colace): Softens stools.
• Miralax: Pulls water into the bowel.
• Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Improve Toilet Posture

• Use a footstool to raise your knees.
• Lean forward with elbows on thighs.

Keep Track

• Record your bowel movements.
• Let your doctor know if you don’t go for 2–3 days.

Section 5: Quick Tips to Stay Regular

• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Drink 4–6 oz of prune juice daily.
• Try warm drinks in the morning.
• Massage your belly gently in circles.
• Use a heating pad on your belly.
• Don’t strain—stop if you feel pain.

Section 6: Foods That Help

Fruits & Vegetables

• Berries, peeled apples, pears.
• Cooked carrots, squash, spinach.

Whole Grains

• Oatmeal, brown rice, bran cereal.
• Whole wheat toast.

Beans & Lentils

• Lentil soup, black beans, split peas.

Fluids

• Herbal tea, prune juice, broth.
• Sugar-free electrolyte drinks.

Healthy Fats

• Olive oil on veggies.
• Mashed avocado on toast.

Section 7: Laxative Guide

Section 8: When to Call a Doctor

Most people recover at home, but call your doctor if you have:

• Severe belly pain or swelling
• Vomiting or trouble keeping fluids down
• Fever over 101 degree F
• No bowel movement for 5+ days

Dr. Pothuri adds: “If things don’t improve, it could be a blockage. Don’t wait.”

Section 9: Dr. Pothuri’s Advice

“I remind my Houston patients—healing your gut is just as important as healing your wound,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri. “Stay hydrated, move when you can, and eat some fiber. If needed, we’ll use gentle laxatives.”

Section 10: Trusted Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Constipation Management
• NIH: Dietary Fiber Guide

Conclusion

Constipation after surgery is common—but it can be managed. Now you know why it happens and what you can do. Follow these tips to feel better and heal faster.

Need help? The team at Gastrodoxs and Dr. Pothuri are here to support your recovery.

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.