I had surgery 5 days ago and still haven't had a bowel movement. is this normal? when can i expect to have one?

It took me about three weeks. Your on a liquid diet so I think normal. Take your stool softeners, the first few were a bit rough.

I had a couple of small bowel movements within the first week and then not another one for a week. I am a nurse and was getting a little concerned, but when I started on full liquids everything went back to regular. Don't worry until your taking in a little more substantial nourishments. Kathe

Three weeks??!! :0/ oh boy. Did it put too much pressure on your belly to have or to try to have a movement?

No pressure on belly but I wasn't raking enough water so first two took a bit of pushing.

It took me 3 days to have one. Actually, I was still in the hospital when it happened.

My suggestion is try a "stool softener". Not a laxative (though some may think this will help). But, with a stool softner it will be easier to swallow and it will have your body perform in a natural state -- not a forced state.

Hope this helps...

S2B

thank you everybody for all your feedback. I love this site and will participate every day. ;0