Post-surgery Care

Mild to moderate discomfort around the surgical area is common.

What may help:

• Take prescribed painkillers as directed     
• Use warm sitz baths (10–15 minutes) to ease soreness and keep the area clean     
• Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling      
• Avoid: prolonged sitting — alternate between resting and gentle movement     
• Avoid: Using over-the-counter creams or ointments unless prescribed by your doctor.

• Keep the area clean and dry        
• Gently pat dry after showering — avoid rubbing      
• Use soft, unscented toilet paper or wet wipes      
• Wear sanitary pads or gauze if advised, as light bleeding or discharge may occur

It is common to feel anxious about your first bowel movement after surgery. These steps can help:    

• Take stool softeners or fibre supplements as prescribed    
• Drink plenty of fluids (at least 6–8 glasses of water daily)      
• Eat high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, oats, and chia seeds       
• Avoid straining    
• Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge

A small amount of blood during bowel movements is common and usually improves within a few days.
 

Start with soft, easy-to-digest foods, such as:

• Soup, porridge, yoghurt, smoothies   
• Bananas, papayas, eggs, steamed vegetables

Avoid spicy, oily, or very salty foods initially, as they may cause discomfort or constipation.

• Rest during the first few days, but move gently to prevent blood clots and constipation    
• Avoid heavy lifting (over 5 kg) for 2–4 weeks
• Many patients can return to non-strenuous work after about one week — follow your doctor’s advice
  
   

Please attend all scheduled follow-ups, which may include:

• Wound or stitch checks    
• Review of biopsy results (if polyps were removed)     
• Monitoring recovery progress     
• Follow-ups are important to ensure proper healing.
   

Seek medical attention promptly if you experience:

• Heavy or continuous bleeding      
• Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication      
• Fever (above 37.8°C) or chills       
• Pus, foul-smelling discharge, or increasing swelling      
• Difficulty passing urine or severe constipation     
• Symptoms of infection or blood clots
  
  If you are unsure, always contact your care team.