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🌱 Constipation
What it is, what helps, and when to seek medical help.
General guidance only; it does not replace medical advice. Talk to your medical team before any decision about your treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Constipation: what is it and why does it happen?
Constipation is common due to anti-sickness medicines, opioid-based painkillers, not drinking enough, or being less active. It is a manageable side effect, but one that needs attention early on.
Constipation: what helps?
- Drink enough fluids — at least 8 glasses of water a day.
- Fiber-rich foods: fruit, cooked vegetables, whole-grain bread (if tolerated).
- Gentle daily movement — even 10–15 minutes of walking.
- Softening laxatives or macrogol-based ones are safe — discuss with your doctor.
- Prunes, prune juice or kiwi can help get things moving.
- Do not ignore the urge to go to the toilet — putting it off makes constipation worse.
Constipation: when should you seek medical help?
No bowel movement for more than 3–4 days, severe abdominal pain, intense bloating, or blood in your stool — contact your doctor straight away.
When to seek help
No bowel movement for more than 3–4 days, severe abdominal pain, intense bloating, or blood in your stool — contact your doctor straight away.
See all warning signs