How do I make my first postpartum bowel movement easier?

Last reviewed July 23, 2026 by Dr. Sapna Jadhav, General Physician. Sources from ACOG, NHS, Mayo Clinic, CDC, NICE, NIH, Cochrane, and peer-reviewed journals.

Bottom lineThe first postpartum bowel movement is usually easier than feared. Make it easier with plenty of fluids and fiber (fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, prunes), gentle walking, not straining or holding it in, and supporting any stitches by pressing clean toilet paper or a pad against them while you go - stitches are very unlikely to tear. A footstool that raises your knees helps, and you can ask about a stool softener, especially after a C-section or tear. Seek help for no movement in several days, severe pain or bleeding, or any loss of bowel control.

The first poo after birth feels daunting, but it is usually easier and less painful than feared. The keys are fluids, fiber, gentle movement, not straining, and supporting any stitches with clean toilet paper or a pad while you go. Ask about a stool softener if you're worried, especially after a tear or C-section.

Why it can be hard

• Fear of pain or tearing stitches makes people hold back, which worsens constipation.
• Slowed digestion from pregnancy hormones, pain medication (especially opioids after a C-section), iron supplements, and reduced eating and moving around during labor.
• Weakened abdominal and pelvic floor muscles.

What helps

• Drink plenty of fluids and eat fiber - fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, and prunes.
• Move gently - even short walks stimulate the bowel.
• Don't strain or hold it in. Go when you feel the urge.
• Support the area - press a clean pad or wad of toilet paper gently against any stitches while you go; it eases fear and pressure. Rest assured stitches are very unlikely to tear.
• Use a footstool to raise your knees above your hips, which straightens the passage.
• Ask about a stool softener or mild laxative - commonly offered after birth, especially after a C-section or significant tear.

When to get help

• No bowel movement several days after birth despite trying
• Severe pain, bleeding, or a feeling of a bulge at the back passage
• Any leakage of stool or wind you can't control - tell your midwife, as it needs assessment

Fluids, fiber, movement, and not straining make the first bowel movement much easier - and softeners are there if you need them.

Femora helps you track postpartum recovery so you know what's normal and when to ask for help.