How long should I remain constipated before seeking medical advice?

[EreniTheFrog]

As in, how long without actually, like, going? I haven't since Wednesday, and it's now Sunday. My usually fail-safe remedies of flax and tons of raw fruit have failed me.

[Nevlet]

The longest I went without was 9 days... Syrup of figs did it for me in the end!

[lougle]

Pop down to the chemist and buy some senna or movicol. Make sure you drink lots of water. It doesn't matter how much fruit you are eating if you aren't drinking enough.

[EreniTheFrog]

Am drinking plenty.. been really craving fizzy water. I didn't know though that you could get movicol OTC in the UK..?

[FuzzyOwl]

You can buy lactulose over the counter, which is what I currently have prescribed for me to help with this pregnancy.

[lougle]

Yes you can get movicol over the counter, but you may need to speak to the pharmacist before they will allow you to buy it.

[Andbabymakesthree]

Fuzzy water not likely to be helpful though. Try glycerin suppositories.

[anyname123]

And fybogel is OTC and first line recommendation. Absolutely no need to trouble a GP with constipation at this stage, that's what community pharmacists are for.

[acsec]

I was told not to use Senna as it can stimulate Braxton Hicks contractions. I've bought myself a tin of prunes and will be eating some each morning for breakfast. They worked for me earlier in this pregnancy.

[NotSoLankyNancy]

Glycerin suppositories and lactulose worked for me and putting a stool under feet while on toilet.

[GoldFishFingerz]

Prunes and dried apricots, 10 a day

[livinginabox]

Agree with prunes and dried apricots. Bloody amazing for getting things moving pretty quickly.

[April241]

Spinach in a smoothie - you'll be on the loo in no time!

[StarkintheSouth]

Dried fruit (especially apricots) worked for me pre-pregnancy and I have to say decaff coffee has ensured I've (so far) stayed regular through out my pregnancy. I have around 2 strong decaff coffees a day and touch wood, no problems. Hope you get some relief soon...!

[oldlaundbooth]

Strong coffee.
lentil soup.
Homemade apple sauce.
Prune juice.
Pineapple.

Was constipated for a week once, it was awful. I was obsessed with shitting!

[MindSweeper]

I would be using over the counter stuff and seeing if that worked before going to the doctors.

[EreniTheFrog]

Apologies for drip-feed, but I have been away on holiday with several other families this week... I didn't have any input into the catering with the result that the available diet is rather, erm, limited. There is also absolutely no privacy, and always someone who wants a natter in communal bathroom. So upon return tomorrow, the poo-regime will begin.

[drinkyourmilk]

I'm now nearly 2 weeks without a proper poo. Been taking lactose for a week, and plenty of water. Finally having some effect today. However much liquid you are drinking- drink more!