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Increased Bowel Movements After Hysterectomy

Experiencing frequent bowel movements after a hysterectomy? Learn the possible causes, how long it lasts, and the best ways to manage and relieve symptoms naturally.

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Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 4th Jul, 2025

Introduction

Undergoing a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) is a major procedure that can bring about several changes in your body, including bowel habits. Some women experience increased bowel movements or diarrhoea after surgery, which can be concerning. If you're going through this, know you're not alone—and there are ways to manage it effectively.

Why Do Bowel Movements Increase After a Hysterectomy?

Several factors can contribute to changes in bowel function following a hysterectomy:

  1. Surgical Impact on Nearby Organs: The uterus is located close to the intestines and bladder. During surgery, these organs may be disturbed or repositioned, temporarily affecting digestion.

  2. Anaesthesia and Medications: Painkillers, antibiotics, and anaesthesia used during and after surgery can disrupt gut flora or stimulate the bowels.

  3. Nerve Sensitivity: Surgery may impact nerves involved in bowel control, causing increased urgency or frequency.

  4. Dietary Changes: A shift to lighter, post-surgical diets (soups, juices, low-fibre meals) can affect stool consistency and frequency.

  5. Stress and Recovery: Emotional and physical stress after surgery can directly impact the digestive system, sometimes leading to bowel irregularities.

Common Symptoms You Might Experience

  • More frequent bowel movements than usual

  • Loose stools or diarrhoea

  • Abdominal cramping or discomfort

  • Bloating or excess gas

  • Sudden urgency to use the toilet

How Long Does It Last?

Increased bowel movements are typically temporary and improve within a few weeks as your body adjusts and heals. However, if symptoms last longer than a month or worsen, it’s best to consult a doctor.

Tips to Manage Increased Bowel Movements

Here are some practical tips to help you manage increased bowel movements after a hysterectomy and support your digestive recovery:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

Adopt a gut-friendly diet that supports healing and soothes digestion.

  • Reduce fibre short-term: Limit high-fibre foods (e.g., raw veggies, beans, bran) during bouts of diarrhoea.

  • Try the BRAT diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast help firm up stools.

  • Probiotics: Include probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or take a daily probiotic supplement.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and oral rehydration fluids to prevent dehydration.

2. Avoid Trigger Foods

Certain foods can irritate your digestive system during recovery.

  • Skip spicy, greasy, fried, or processed foods

  • Limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol, which may worsen diarrhoea

Consult Specialists For Tips To Manage Bowel Movement

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

550

44 Cashback

Dr. Shailaja L, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shailaja L

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, MS

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

660

64 Cashback

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, DGO

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

600

54 Cashback

Dr. Ritika Khurana, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Ritika Khurana

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)

Pune

Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune

875

700

Dr. Debashree Saha, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Debashree Saha

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata

625

500

3. Gentle Movement

Physical activity helps stimulate regular bowel movements without overexertion.

  • Take short daily walks to boost digestion

  • Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting until cleared by your doctor

4. Manage Stress

Your gut and brain are closely connected, so emotional stress can aggravate symptoms.

  • Practice deep breathing, guided meditation, or gentle yoga

  • Prioritise rest and sleep to support recovery

5. Medications (If Needed)

  • Over-the-counter remedies like loperamide (Imodium) may help manage diarrhoea

  • Always consult your doctor before taking new medications, especially post-surgery

When to See a Doctor

While temporary digestive changes are normal, contact a healthcare provider if you notice:

  • Persistent or severe diarrhoea lasting more than 7–10 days

  • Blood in your stool

  • High fever or signs of infection

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Severe abdominal pain or bloating

These could be signs of complications, such as infection, bowel obstruction, or an unrelated gastrointestinal issue.

Conclusion

Increased bowel movements after a hysterectomy are not uncommon and are usually temporary. Dietary changes, stress, and medications often play a role. With proper care, most women see improvements within a few weeks. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

 If you're experiencing prolonged digestive issues after a hysterectomy, consider consulting a specialist. You can book an appointment with a gynaecologist or gastroenterologist through Apollo 24|7 for expert, personalised guidance.

Consult Top Gynaecologists

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

550

44 Cashback

Dr. Shailaja L, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shailaja L

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, MS

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

660

64 Cashback

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, DGO

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

600

54 Cashback

Dr. Ritika Khurana, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Ritika Khurana

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)

Pune

Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune

875

700

Dr. Debashree Saha, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Debashree Saha

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata

625

500

Consult Specialists For Tips To Manage Bowel Movement

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

550

44 Cashback

Dr. Shailaja L, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shailaja L

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, MS

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

660

64 Cashback

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, DGO

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

600

54 Cashback

Dr. Ritika Khurana, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Ritika Khurana

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)

Pune

Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune

875

700

Dr. Debashree Saha, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Debashree Saha

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata

625

500

Consult Top Gynaecologists

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Alapati Jyotsna

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

550

44 Cashback

Dr. Shailaja L, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Shailaja L

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, MS

Bangalore

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore

660

64 Cashback

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

8 Years • MBBS, DGO

Visakhapatnam

Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

600

54 Cashback

Dr. Ritika Khurana, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Ritika Khurana

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

16 Years • MBBS, DGO(GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS)

Pune

Dr Rupali and Dr Ritika, Pune

875

700

Dr. Debashree Saha, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr. Debashree Saha

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

4 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Kolkata

DR. DEBASHREE SAHA Clinic, Kolkata

625

500

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