Question about glycerin suppositories - Bowel Disorders Message Board

MLWC · 08-30-2002, 06:43 AM

Hi everyone...
I have a quick Q about using glycerin suppositories. I know that they are typically used to help one have a BM if constipated. However, I seem to have a little bit different problem and was wondering if I could use them for this....

whenever I have to have a BM, the first part of the movement really hurts as it descends and I usually get some spotting on the tissue and pain (fissure..I know I know), but the REST of the movement is fine. It justs seems to be this first part.

And so, I am wondering if a glycerin supp. will help to soften it or if I put some cream onto the supp. if that would also help. Is this necessarily a bad idea? I mean, I usually go every morning like clockwork (as soon as I've had breakfast), so the glycerin wouldn't be making me go...just assisting (hopefully).

What thinks you??

Thanks...MLWC

08-30-2002, 07:42 AM

If you are regularly having a BM every morning, then no, you don't need to use a suppository. What you need to get is a stool softener such as Sodium Docusate. This will help your BM's to be softer and easier to pass.

mlgable · 08-30-2002, 08:13 AM

You need to add fiber therapy to help get your stools in order. Colace aka docusate is a stool softner as Sarah said but it is only a temporary solution where as fiber therapy such as metamucil is a permanent thing. You also should increase your water intake. Forget the suppositories as they will not soften your BM.

auntjudyg · 08-30-2002, 10:22 AM

That is what happens to me on hot, humid spells when I am perspiring a lot, so for me it means not enough water. Best wishes!

MLWC · 08-30-2002, 02:35 PM

Thanks for the replies and support!

As of now, I don't need to have more fiber...the bulk (pardon the pun) of my BM is soft and easy to pass. It's the FIRST part of it (which, I'm assuming has been waiting the longest to come out) that is causing the problem.

Also, I do currently drink 2-3 L of water every day. No exceptions. And more when I work out or if I'm hot.

Perhaps the stool softener would help for a little while. Is Correctol stool softener okay? I think it's docusate...

I only asked about the glycerin because it melts and is sort of slick feeling. I thought that maybe it would help somehow.

Can't blame one for being creative (or at least trying)
-MLWC