Hi everyone, sorry about the TMI but just had a Q about constipation after surgery. Can one use castor oil as a laxative in place of store brands if their are issues going on a regular after surgery.

castor oil is pretty harsh - I don't think that would be good to use on a regular basis. Something like Miralax or a stool softener should be OK, though.

I've been dealing with really intense constipation since my surgery Feb 14th. I was first suggested Colace and that didn't do much for me. Next, my doc suggested Senna tea (also called "Smooth Move" in American grocery stores). That worked pretty well. I'm still having issues so my doctor also is having me drink prune juice, psyllium husk, and milk of magnesia which is pushing things along better. My doctor has also recommended to me glycerine suppositories but tbh that didn't work for me. So those are some bariatric-friendly options. One of them or multiple hopefully will work for you. I haven't heard of castor oil being suggested because it might be difficult for the stomach/nausea or cause intestinal discomfort. But at the end of the day, just ask your team and see what they recommend for you! Best of luck with it. I know firsthand how awful post-op constipation is.

I had to use milk of magnesia at first but then I just added soluble fiber to my morning drink each day and I was regular. After I got a ways out I began to decrease the fiber until I don’t need that either because I get enough fiber from food.

Thank you