Constipation and chemo

I had my first chemo on Friday and have not had a bowel movement, I didn't have one the day before chemo, I have been taking the prescripted laxatives from my NHS Cancer nurse, eating fruit and veg and porridge and dried figs, drinking lots of water but still nothing, I am not in pain  but wondering if I should be concerned or should I contact my Cancer nurse tomorrow? 

Many thanks E

  • Hi, i was exactly the same after my first and second chemo treatments and it was just so uncomfortable. I did ring the nurses and after discussing with them, they advised me to increase the laxido sachets i was taking. It worked!

    However; on my third chemo i decided not to take the medication they gave me to take at home as just didn't want to feel like that again. I did speak to the nurses firstly and they said the meds were not mandatory and as long as i felt well, it was ok not to take them. 

    I would definitely call your nurse though for advice.

    Good luck x

  • Thank you, I'll give them a call today 

  • Hi Lainey-W161 and thank you for your post,

    As Cah60 has posted, it is best to contact your nurse specialist as they know your situation and what treatment you are having.  We do have information on our website about constipation and how to manage it which may also be helpful for you.

    I hope you get to speak with your nurse and this gets sorted for you soon.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care, all the best,

    Jemma