Although we don't usually think of surgery as a stressful event, the fact is, surgical operations are among the most extreme stressful events most of us ever endure. The complete disruption of bodily functions by the operation and for days afterward has a enormous range of effects, usually including constipation.

Avoiding constipation after surgery is essential to recovery from hysterectomy, prostate surgery, and, of course, colorectal surgery. Fortunately, constipation after surgery can be treated with a few simple steps:

Eat regularly, throughout the day. Every time you eat food, the intestines secrete a hormone that stimulates the bowel and helps relieve constipation after surgery.

Eat a variety of foods for pleasure and nutrition, but be sure to include at least a few high-fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grain bread, high-fiber breakfast cereals, dried fruit, nuts, beans, bran (be careful to start with no more than one tablespoon to avoid bloating), and prunes.

Drink plenty of fluid, at least 8 cups a day. The way fiber relieves constipation after surgery is by absorbing water. You have to drink water for fiber to work.

Don't ignore the urge to go to the toilet when it comes. And if you need to, take laxatives that have been prescribed for you.

We've kept this list of steps to post-surgical regularity simple - you have other things to concern yourself with than just constipation after surgery! Just one more word of caution: If your bowels aren't working, or if you feel the need to strain, consult your physician.