blood in stool post bowel cancer surgery

 hi hope everyone is as well as can be i’m almost 12 weeks post opp after having a laparoscopic converted to open hemicolectomy surgery no chemo required on a 5 year survalance plan the last 2 weeks i’ve had right hand side abdomen cramps and like a pressure in my right pelvis area and blood in my stool went to my doctors and they did another stool test which came back positive again after they got in touch with my nurse i spoke to her and she seems to think it’s to early for the cancer to have recurrence and that that my gp should not of given me a fit test that after my surgery it’s normal for blood to still be in my stool but everywhere else i have read about the surgery i had it says expect blood in your stool for up to 6 weeks just wondering anyone’s take on this and if anyone as experienced the same symptoms12 weeks after surgery as me thanks

  • Hello and thanks for your post.

    It can take up to three months to fully recover from bowel surgery, as every patient will be different. Small amounts of blood loss can occur as healing completes. You may need to alter your diet as you go, to regulate bowel movements. Do speak to your hospital specialist nurse again if you are worried about this. He/She can speak with your surgeon if needed. If you experience a greater degree of blood loss, or more episodes, then do make contact with your doctor again. 

    I hope that this helps,

    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.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda