How to correct the bowel movements?

How can I ease the pain of bowel movements?

• I am a 26 year old mother of 6. During my last pregnancy, I got extremely constipated. Ever sine the birth of my son, 11 months ago, I am stil constipated. I've noticed that I won't have a bowel movement for anywhere from a few days to a week, and then once I do start getting some stool out again, I cramp up. The pain isn't constant and it isn't severe, but I don't get any relief from the small amount of stool, and after I try to go, I get crampy. I'm sure this is typical of ibs, but how can I ease the pain? Are there any options to either make me have a full bowel movement or ease the cramping after the little that I get out now? Any advice will be appreciated.

• Answer:

  I had a similar issue, for several years after the birth of my daughter. Due to an underlying thyroid issue (which you may not have), I had several mineral deficiencies. When I started taking magnesium, in an OTC dosage, I very suddenly became regular and it was such a relief! If you have any kidney issues, you should not take Mg, but otherwise it is a pretty safe supplement. It made all the difference to me. Prior to that, I was using Miralax, but even that wasn't working after awhile. You can also take stool softeners without side effects. Good luck, I hope it's as easy as adding Magnesium!