Does breastfeeding affect a mother's bowel movements?

Yes, breastfeeding can sometimes make bowel movements less frequent because your body uses extra fluids, which may cause mild dehydration and constipation if you don’t drink enough water.

What do postpartum haemorrhoids feel like?

Postpartum haemorrhoids usually feel like painful or itchy lumps around the anus. They can cause discomfort, swelling, or a burning sensation.

Easy Tips to Make Your First Postpartum Poop More Comfortable

Pooping for the first time after birth can be a big deal for some new parents. It is not really the act itself that is the problem; it is the fear around it. You might find yourself imagining the worst, that it is going to be painful, you will have to strain, or that something might hurt your stitches or incision. That worry alone is enough to make your body tense up, and when your muscles are tight, pooping feels even harder.

It is important to know that this feeling is very normal. It does not matter whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, almost everyone feels a bit anxious about that first trip to the toilet. You have just been through a huge physical change, so of course your body is going to feel different and a little sensitive. Luckily, there are gentle and practical ways to make the experience easier.

Your First Postpartum Poop

Your first bowel movement after giving birth can happen anywhere from the same day to about four days later. Every woman’s body is different, so there’s no set timeline.
Your pelvic area might feel tender if you’ve had a vaginal delivery. For those who had a C-section, you might worry about straining and how it could affect your incision.

On top of that, factors like pain medications, dehydration, or even the stress of being a new parent can slow your system down and lead to constipation.

Why Your Bowel Movements Change After Birth

Several factors can influence your bowel movements after birth:

Pelvic floor changes: During pregnancy and birth, your pelvic floor muscles can stretch up to three times their normal length. This can make them weak for a while, which affects bowel control.
Tearing or episiotomy: If you had a tear or an episiotomy (a small cut made during delivery), pooping can feel sore or uncomfortable until the area heals.
Medications and supplements: Certain painkillers and iron tablets can slow your digestion and cause constipation.
Dehydration: Your stool gets hard and harder to pass if you don’t drink enough water.
Stress and anxiety: Lack of sleep and the stress hormone cortisol can either slow down your bowels (causing constipation) or lead to diarrhoea.
Hormonal shifts: The dramatic hormonal changes after birth can also affect your normal bowel pattern.

Tips for a Smoother Postpartum Poop

The thought of your first postpartum poop can feel scary, but there are simple ways to make it easier.
These are some tips you can actually use:

Stay calm and positive: Anxiety can tense up your pelvic floor muscles and make it harder to pass stool. Feeling nervous is normal but try not to let that fear take over.
Don’t strain: Avoid pushing too hard, as this can worsen haemorrhoids or irritate stitches. If you don’t have a bowel movement within 10 minutes, don’t sit there forcing it. Get up, relax, and come back later when your body feels ready.
Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water. Your stool becomes hard and painful to pass if you don’t drink enough.
Eat fibre-rich foods: Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet. These high-fibre foods help soften your stool.
Use proper pooping posture: Sit upright and put your feet on a small stool or even a box so your knees are slightly higher than your hips. This position relaxes your pelvic floor and eases the passage of stool.
Breathe right: Don’t hold your breath while you’re trying to poop. Instead, take a deep breath in, then breathe out slowly as you gently push.
Consider stool softeners: In the first few days, your doctor might suggest a stool softener. These are generally safe while breastfeeding, but always check with your doctor first.
Support your incision if you had a C-section: If you had a C-section, hold a pillow against your tummy when pooping to support the incision and reduce discomfort.
Clean gently: Avoid wiping with dry toilet paper, as the area may be tender. Use a peri bottle (a small squirt bottle) to gently cleanse with warm water.
Practice diaphragmatic breathing: This is something you can do any time during the day. Take slow, deep breaths that let your belly and ribcage expand on the inhale and relax on the exhale.

Your first postpartum poop can feel daunting, but it’s a temporary phase. You can make it a much smoother experience with the tips mentioned above. Focus on staying hydrated and eat fibre-rich foods to keep things moving naturally. Remember to be patient with your body as it heals.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Gentle Tips for a Smooth Postpartum Poop Experience

Does breastfeeding affect a mother's bowel movements?
Yes, breastfeeding can sometimes make bowel movements less frequent because your body uses extra fluids, which may cause mild dehydration and constipation if you don’t drink enough water.
What do postpartum haemorrhoids feel like?
Postpartum haemorrhoids usually feel like painful or itchy lumps around the anus. They can cause discomfort, swelling, or a burning sensation.