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, due to increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy, it is easy to develop hemorrhoids, making defecation difficult. Second, postpartum blood loss leads to depleted yin blood, which further 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: Eat more vegetables, fruits, honey, etc., to enhance the effect of lubricating the intestines and promoting bowel movement. Vegetables like spinach, celery, onion, bitter gourd, amaranth, and chives are recommended. Fruits such as bananas, apples, and pears are beneficial.
(2) Medication: Gentle, mild laxatives are preferred. Avoid harsh purgatives to prevent damaging 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 Rou Cong Rong 10g, Mahua Ren 10g, Shou Wu 10g, steep in water to drink.
② Fan Xie Ye 3g, steep in water to drink.
③ Da Huang 3g, Rou Cong Rong 10g, steep in water to drink.
(3) External Use: If defecation has not occurred within 4 to 5 days, anorectal suppositories (like Kao Sai Ru) can be used alongside medication. Alternatively, decoct 10g of Da Huang and 10g of Gong Yao, then use 100ml of the liquid for enema.