Patient's question:
I am a 24-year-old woman who just gave birth to a healthy baby. However, I haven't had a bowel movement since giving birth, and it has been two days. I would like to ask: How long after giving birth is it normal to have a bowel movement?Doctor's answer:
Natural childbirth is generally faster, and bowel movements can return within two days. Cesarean section usually takes longer, about three days, because the first two days are recommended to consume only liquid food. However, on the third day, it is necessary to get out of bed and exercise to prevent intestinal adhesion. If bowel movement difficulties reoccur postpartum, it is important to adopt appropriate and safe methods to promote bowel movements, as this can affect your health. First, physical and medicinal methods can be used to reduce abdominal pain and enhance intestinal peristalsis, such as cold compresses or abdominal massage.