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Irritable Bowel Syndrome After Hysterectomy

Experiencing digestive issues after a hysterectomy? Learn how Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can develop post-surgery, why it happens, and effective ways to manage symptoms.

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Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt

Last updated on 7th Jul, 2025

Introduction

If you've recently had a hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus) and are experiencing digestive issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea, you might be dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Many women notice changes in their bowel habits after this surgery, and while it can be frustrating, understanding the connection can help you manage symptoms better.

What is IBS?

IBS is a common digestive disorder that affects the large intestine (colon). It can cause:

  • Abdominal pain or cramping

  • Bloating and gas

  • Diarrhoea, constipation, or both (alternating)

  • Mucus in stool

While IBS is not life-threatening, it can significantly impact daily life.

Consult Top Specialists for Your Symptoms

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

18 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Gastroenterology)

Kolkata

LivGastro, Kolkata

1563

1500

Dr Harish K C, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Harish K C

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Bangalore

Manipal Hospital, Bangalore

850

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Paramesh K N, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Paramesh K N

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MS ( General Surgery), DNB ( Surgical Gastroenterology)

Hyderabad

Sprint Diagnostics Centre, Hyderabad

813

750

Why Does IBS Happen After Hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy can sometimes trigger or worsen IBS symptoms due to:

1. Hormonal Changes

  • The uterus and ovaries produce hormones that influence digestion.

  • Removal of the uterus—and sometimes ovaries—can disrupt hormonal balance, affecting gut motility.

2. Nerve and Muscle Disruption

  • The surgery may affect pelvic nerves that control bowel movements, leading to constipation or diarrhoea.

  • Scar tissue formation can also impact intestinal function.

3. Stress and Recovery

  • Surgery is a major physical and emotional stressor, which can trigger IBS flare-ups.

  • Post-surgery pain medications (like opioids) may cause constipation.

How to Manage IBS Symptoms After Hysterectomy

1. Dietary Adjustments

What you eat has a direct impact on your gut health.

  • Fibre Intake: If constipated, increase soluble fibre with oats, bananas and apples. If diarrhoea is an issue, reduce insoluble fibre like whole grains and raw veggies.

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to aid digestion.

  • Avoid Trigger Foods: Common IBS triggers include dairy, caffeine, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners.

  • Smaller, Frequent Meals: Helps ease digestion.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Small changes to your routine can have a big impact on IBS symptoms.

  • Gentle Exercise: Walking or yoga can improve bowel movements and reduce stress.

  • Stress Management: Meditation, deep breathing, or therapy can help, as stress worsens IBS.

  • Probiotics: May restore gut bacteria balance—try yoghurt or supplements.

3. Medical Support

Sometimes, professional treatment is necessary for better symptom control.

  • Laxatives or Anti-Diarrhoeals: Use only under a doctor’s guidance.

  • Hormone Therapy (if needed): If hormonal imbalance is a factor, discuss options with your doctor.

  • Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor therapy can help if nerve damage affects bowel function.

When to See a Doctor

While IBS is manageable, consult a doctor if you experience:

  • Severe pain or sudden weight loss

  • Blood in stool

  • Persistent diarrhoea or constipation

If you're struggling with IBS symptoms after a hysterectomy, Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and diagnostic tests to help you find relief.

Final Thoughts

IBS after a hysterectomy is not uncommon, and while it can be challenging, simple dietary, lifestyle, and medical interventions can make a big difference. Listen to your body, stay patient, and seek professional help if needed.

Consult Top Gastroenterologists

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

18 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Gastroenterology)

Kolkata

LivGastro, Kolkata

1563

1500

Dr Harish K C, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Harish K C

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Bangalore

Manipal Hospital, Bangalore

850

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Paramesh K N, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Paramesh K N

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MS ( General Surgery), DNB ( Surgical Gastroenterology)

Hyderabad

Sprint Diagnostics Centre, Hyderabad

813

750

Consult Top Specialists for Your Symptoms

Dr Rohit Sureka, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Rohit Sureka

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

19 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DNB Gastroenterology

Jaipur

Triveni Gastro Care, Jaipur

600

600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

18 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Gastroenterology)

Kolkata

LivGastro, Kolkata

1563

1500

Dr Harish K C, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Harish K C

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Bangalore

Manipal Hospital, Bangalore

850

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Paramesh K N, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Paramesh K N

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MS ( General Surgery), DNB ( Surgical Gastroenterology)

Hyderabad

Sprint Diagnostics Centre, Hyderabad

813

750

Dr. Mayank Agarwal, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Mayank Agarwal

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

12 Years • DM GASTROENTEROLOGY

Guwahati

Apollo Clinic Guwahati, Guwahati

1000

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Gastroenterologists

Dr Rohit Sureka, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Rohit Sureka

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

19 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DNB Gastroenterology

Jaipur

Triveni Gastro Care, Jaipur

600

600

No Booking Fees

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Vijay Kumar Rai

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

18 Years • MBBS , MD (General medicine) , DM (Gastroenterology)

Kolkata

LivGastro, Kolkata

1563

1500

Dr Harish K C, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Harish K C

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Bangalore

Manipal Hospital, Bangalore

850

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Paramesh K N, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Paramesh K N

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

16 Years • MBBS, MS ( General Surgery), DNB ( Surgical Gastroenterology)

Hyderabad

Sprint Diagnostics Centre, Hyderabad

813

750

Dr. Mayank Agarwal, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Mayank Agarwal

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

12 Years • DM GASTROENTEROLOGY

Guwahati

Apollo Clinic Guwahati, Guwahati

1000

No Booking Fees

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