I went to use the bathroom and found out that I am very constipated. I sat there trying to focus on going, but no such luck. My main worry is that I was pushing so hard to get my bowels out that I became lightheaded and my stomach started hurting.

Is there any chance that it could damage or harm my band from pushing too hard?

I went to Rite Aid and got a laxative, so we will see.. I am just concerned about the pushing.

I felt like I was giving birth all over again....... NOT fun.

Thanks in advance.

I had this problem after my surgery last year too. I talked to my surgeon and he suggested stool softeners (didn't work), tried chewable fiber (didn't work), tried prune juice- worked but tastes yucky. Within the last few months started using Benefiber- it is a powder that mixes into any drink. It is tasteless and I mix it in my coffee. It is a miracle for me. Works perfectly

Ps- I don't think pushing can damage the band, but u could get hemmeroids

You won't hurt your band. Make sure you're getting enough fiber in, etc.

Thanks you guys! I feel better now knowing I am not harming my band. I went to the store and got benefiber!

Seriously Benefiber has saved me much discomfort. I can't believe it toon me like 8 months to start using it. :-)

My doc recommended dulcolax, not sure if I spelled it right, suppositories. oh my Gosh, that thing works too good probably, don't make plans after that!

I plan to start adding a fiber supplement to my morning shake. It's so bad at times I literally drop a couple of pounds when it get things moving again.