Managing Increased Bowel Movements After Hemorrhoid Surgery: What to Expect

What should I do if I have excessive bowel movements after hemorrhoid surgery?

Hello Doctor: I had traditional hemorrhoid surgery about five days ago.
Since the surgery, my bowel movements have increased significantly, but none of them are in a complete shape; they are mostly in small pieces.
I haven't taken any stool softeners, yet my stools are soft and I often feel the urge to have a bowel movement shortly after leaving the bathroom.
I am having more than four bowel movements a day.
Is this a normal post-operative symptom? Will this situation gradually improve over time?

Vivi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/22

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

After surgery, to prevent wound pain, doctors often prescribe stool softeners to avoid constipation.
However, some patients may experience increased bowel movements due to overly soft stools combined with irritation from the surgical site, which is a common issue during this stage.
It is recommended to reduce the frequency of stool softener intake.
Generally, this situation resolves within one to two weeks post-surgery.

Reply Date: 2018/08/22

More Info

After undergoing hemorrhoid surgery, it is not uncommon for patients to experience changes in bowel habits, including increased frequency of bowel movements and altered stool consistency. Your experience of having more frequent bowel movements, with stools that are not formed and consist of small pieces, can be attributed to several factors related to the surgical procedure and the healing process.

Firstly, following hemorrhoid surgery, the body goes through a healing phase that can affect bowel function. The surgical trauma to the anal area can lead to temporary changes in how the bowel operates. The inflammation and healing process can cause increased sensitivity and urgency, leading to more frequent urges to defecate. Additionally, the pain and discomfort associated with the surgical site may cause you to subconsciously alter your bowel habits, leading to incomplete evacuation and the sensation of needing to go again shortly after a bowel movement.

Moreover, the diet post-surgery plays a significant role in bowel movements. If your diet has not included sufficient fiber or fluids, it can contribute to softer stools and increased frequency. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet rich in fiber to help form stools and promote regularity. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and adequate hydration can facilitate smoother bowel movements and reduce the frequency of urges.

Another consideration is the use of pain medications. Opioids, commonly prescribed for post-operative pain, can lead to constipation in some patients, while others may experience diarrhea as a side effect. If you have been prescribed any medications, it is worth discussing with your healthcare provider whether they could be influencing your bowel habits.

In terms of what to expect moving forward, it is generally expected that bowel habits will normalize over time as the surgical site heals and inflammation decreases. Most patients find that their bowel movements stabilize within a few weeks to a couple of months post-surgery. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate for any complications, such as infection or anal fissures, which could contribute to ongoing discomfort and altered bowel habits.

In summary, while increased bowel movements and changes in stool consistency can be a normal part of the recovery process after hemorrhoid surgery, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. Maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and managing pain effectively can help improve your situation. If you have concerns about your symptoms or if they do not improve, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Post-Hemorrhoid Surgery: Struggling with Bowel Movements and Discomfort

Hello Doctor, after my hemorrhoid surgery last year following the Lunar New Year (the doctor mentioned that a significant amount of external hemorrhoids were removed), I have been experiencing difficulties during bowel movements. I have to exert a lot of effort, and sometimes I d...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Postoperative difficulty in bowel movements after hemorrhoid surgery may be due to sensory or structural abnormalities. Sensory abnormalities occur when nerve endings are damaged, leading to an inability to accurately perceive the urge to defecate, which typically improves gradua...

Post-Hemorrhoid Surgery: Understanding Bowel Movement Challenges

I underwent hemorrhoid surgery on January 8 of this year, during which four internal hemorrhoids were removed. However, I am currently experiencing the following issues: 1. I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, but it requires significant effort to pass stool; 2. I rely on me...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
After hemorrhoid surgery, it is common to experience abnormal sensations during bowel movements within 2 to 4 weeks, similar to what you described. However, these symptoms will gradually improve as the wounds heal. It is recommended to increase your intake of dietary fiber and fl...

Post-Hemorrhoid Surgery: Managing Bowel Movements and Leakage Issues

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you a few questions. I underwent ultrasound knife surgery to remove three hemorrhoids on July 21. Starting the day after the surgery, I began attempting to have bowel movements. I have been taking stool softeners daily, but I am experiencing the...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
1. It is normal for the frequency of bowel movements to increase after hemorrhoid surgery due to heightened sensitivity around the anal area caused by wound irritation, as long as there is no pain or bleeding during defecation. 2. It is also normal for the surgical site to have...

Post-Surgery Recovery: Managing Bowel Issues After Hemorrhoid Surgery

Hello Doctor, my father (79 years old) underwent minimally invasive surgery for hemorrhoids (PPH hemorrhoidectomy) on March 1st of this year. Due to his enlarged prostate issue, he had a urinary catheter for about a month post-surgery. For the first two months, he experienced fec...

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery
Generally, hemorrhoidectomy wounds heal within a few weeks, and there should be no issues with incontinence. Benign prostatic hyperplasia may lead to short-term urinary difficulties post-surgery, but it does not affect bowel movements in the long term. Based on the description, t...