stool softener?

[Earth Momma]

does anyone take a stool softener after birth like they would give you at the hospital?

[babywolverine]

I bought some just in case but the birth went so well that I had no tearing and didn't need any:

[channelofpeace]

With my first c-section, they gave me one along with my pain meds. My second c-section they did not, and my first bm after that CS was seriously miserable experience. So I bought some and took them after my two subsequent vaginal births (one in the hospital and the last one at home). I probably didn't really need it, but after the one experience, I was definitely not taking any chances.

[cileag]

The ones that are given in the hospital are all over counter---typically Senna (Sennakot) or Colace (Docusate Sodium). You can pick them up at any drug store. I don't think it's a bad idea, especially if you had tearing, or constipation or hemarrhoids prior to birth.