When you suffer a 3rd degree tear, it is very important that you avoid constipation. In this article we explore why it is important to avoid constipation and how this can be achieved.
Taking laxatives after a 3rd degree tear
Shortly after sustained a 3rd degree tear, medical practitioners should give you laxatives to take.
Laxatives help to loosen stools, keeping your bowel movements soft and regular. They do not interfere with breastfeeding. You should be prescribed a course of laxatives to take home with you when you are discharged from hospital.
Avoid constipation after a 3rd degree tear
You will be given this medication to ensure that you do not become constipated after a 3rd degree tear.
If you do become constipated, you will have to strain to pass a stool. This can damage your 3rd degree tear, potentially breaking the stitches. Therefore it is essential your stools remain loose while the injury is still healing.
Along with taking laxatives, you should also take other steps to help prevent constipation, including:
- Drinking plenty of water – around 2 litres per day
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Not delaying when you need to pass a stool
What happens if my stitches break?
If your stitches do break, it is important you seek immediate medical advice. It may be possible to re-suture the injury.
Furthermore, your stitches may have broken for a particular reason. For example, you may have an infection which has caused the wound to break down. If so, you will need medication to treat the problem.
Incontinence after a 3rd degree tear
You may find that you have to rush to the toilet in order to pass a stool after a 3rd degree tear. Consequently you may think that you should stop taking your constipating medication. However, you should not do this without medical advice, as it may make matters worse. The urgency you feel should improve with time, and it is better to keep your stools loose while you are still healing.
Nevertheless, some women do suffer with ongoing faecal urgency after giving birth. If this applies to you, you should seek advice from your GP. It is possible that the tear has not be properly stitched, or that you suffered a more serious tear that has remained undiagnosed.
Missed tear
If you are told that you have a 3rd or 4th degree tear which has until now been missed by medical practitioners, you could be entitled to claim compensation. Contact us for more information.