Had anal fistula surgery on Tuesday. Have not had bowel movement since. today is!

Had anal fistula surgery on Tuesday. Have not had bowel movement since. today is sunday. Is that too long?

taking codeine...so I don't know how long is too long...and when I should be concerned

3 weeks ago
I am taking a stool softener in addition. I'm not uncomfortable because of it. Just remember the surgeon saying you may be constipated for 2 or 3 days...but just want to be assured that it's ok if it ends up being 5 or 6 days.

I'm not in a hurry mind you :) I just know it's going to hurt...so if it's ok I'm happy to wait.

Be concerned. Codeine is well-known for causing constipation. I don't know what the prep was for your surgery (some doctors have you completely clean your colon before surgery so it may take a bit longer for you to have a bowel movement post op), but you definitely should have been prescribed stool softeners and told to drink a lot of fluids. Constipation can cause little tears in the anal tissue and also may cause you to strain excessively to pass the BM - both things you need to really avoid right now. If you can't get a hold of your doctor, at least call a pharmacist and get some suggestions (they will probably recommend docusate sodium which you can purchase over the counter as Colace (stool softener) or Peri-Colace (stool softener/stimulant laxative).
Good luck with this!