Is It Normal to Feel Urgency After Using Suppositories for Hemorrhoids?

After using the rectal suppository for internal hemorrhoid bleeding, there is a feeling of urgency to defecate?

After noticing bleeding from internal hemorrhoids, I used a rectal suppository, and about half an hour later, I felt the urge to have a bowel movement.
The previous medication did not cause this issue; it only started after switching to a different medication.
Is this normal? Thank you.

Bin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/20

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

The ingredients in rectal suppositories vary, and it is possible for them to induce a bowel movement.
It is recommended to use them before bedtime to avoid the potential for a bowel movement shortly after use, which could diminish the effectiveness of the treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/09/20

More Info

When using suppositories for hemorrhoids, it is not uncommon to experience a sense of urgency or an increased need to have a bowel movement shortly after administration. This can be attributed to several factors related to the formulation of the suppository and the body's response to it.

Firstly, many hemorrhoid suppositories contain ingredients that can stimulate the rectal mucosa. These ingredients may include local anesthetics, anti-inflammatory agents, or vasoconstrictors, which can lead to increased sensitivity in the rectal area. When the suppository is inserted, it can cause a reflexive urge to evacuate the bowels, especially if the formulation is designed to provide quick relief from discomfort or inflammation.

Secondly, the composition of the suppository itself can play a significant role. Some formulations may include laxative components or substances that promote bowel movements. If you have switched to a new medication that has a different active ingredient or formulation, it is possible that this new suppository is designed to stimulate bowel activity more than your previous one. This could explain the urgency you are feeling after using it.

Additionally, the act of inserting a suppository can also create a sensation of fullness or pressure in the rectum, which may trigger the urge to defecate. This is a normal physiological response, as the rectum is sensitive to changes in volume and pressure.

It is important to note that while experiencing urgency after using a hemorrhoid suppository can be normal, it should not be accompanied by severe pain, excessive discomfort, or any other concerning symptoms such as significant bleeding or a change in bowel habits. If you find that the urgency is persistent, uncomfortable, or accompanied by other troubling symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess whether the suppository is appropriate for your condition and if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

In summary, feeling an increased urgency to have a bowel movement after using a new hemorrhoid suppository can be a normal reaction, especially if the formulation differs from what you previously used. However, if this sensation is bothersome or accompanied by other symptoms, seeking medical advice would be prudent to ensure that your treatment is effective and appropriate for your needs.

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