Patient's question:
25 years old, postpartum activity has decreased, now drinking senna leaves with poor therapeutic effect. Could this condition be caused by intestinal adhesion? How should I be treated? Thank you!Doctor's answer:
Hello: Postpartum women are most prone to constipation, especially between 2 to 5 days postpartum. First, during pregnancy, increased abdominal pressure can easily lead to hemorrhoids, making defecation difficult. Second, significant blood loss after childbirth leads to depleted yin blood, which in turn weakens qi, resulting in insufficient qi and blood to promote bowel movement. Third, postpartum women often rest in bed and have limited activity, which also contributes to constipation.(1) Dietary Therapy: Increase intake of vegetables, fruits, honey, etc., to enhance the effect of lubricating the intestines and promoting bowel movement. Recommended vegetables include spinach, celery, onion, bitter gourd, amaranth, and chives. Recommended fruits include bananas, apples, and pears.
(2) Medication: Gentle, mild laxatives are preferred; harsh purgatives should be avoided to prevent damage to qi. Over-the-counter medications:
① Jia Wei Xiao Yao Wan (6g), twice daily.
② Mahua Ren Wan (6g), twice daily.
③ Niuhuang Jie Du Ruan Jiaonang (2 pills), twice daily.
Herbal decoctions:
① Herba Cistanche (10g), Semen Cassiae (10g), Polygonum Multiflorum (10g), steep in water and drink.
② Senna Leaf (3g), steep in water and drink.
③ Rheum (3g), Herba Cistanche (10g), steep in water and drink.
(3) External Application: If defecation has not occurred within 4 to 5 days, anorectal suppositories (e.g., Kaisai Ru) can be used while taking medication. Alternatively, decoct 10g of Rheum and 10g of Gentiana Scabra to make 100ml of liquid for enema.