If that prep did its job to clean you out, a Cleveland Clinic GI expert explains constipation as a colonoscopy recovery symptom.
Is Constipation After a Colonoscopy Normal? A Cleveland Clinic G.I. Doctor Explains
Published on Mar. 01, 2025
About the expert
Adrienna Jirik, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic, where she has been providing care since 2016. She completed advanced fellowships in hepatology/transplant and gastroenterology, with clinical expertise in colorectal cancer screening, liver diseases (including cirrhosis and hepatitis), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Highlights
- Constipation after a colonoscopy is common.
- Hydration and movement can help restore normal digestion.
- Stool softeners can help relieve symptoms.
- Call your doctor if symptoms last over five days.
Whether you’ve just completed a colonoscopy or are preparing for one, you know it’s not exactly a procedure most people look forward to. That said, it is a vital tool for protecting your health—especially when it comes to detecting colorectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, making routine screenings essential. For those at average risk (meaning no personal or family history of colorectal cancer, no genetic syndromes linked to the disease, and no inflammatory bowel disease) the recommendation is to start screening at age 45.
Still, while you might expect to feel relief after the exam, you could be dealing with an unexpected and frustrating side effect: constipation after colonoscopy. After all the prep to empty your system, why does it now feel like your body isn’t moving things along?
Ahead, Adrienna Jirik, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic, explains why your digestive system might need a little extra time to reset—and what you can do to help it.
Is constipation after a colonoscopy normal?
“Some changes in bowel habits after a colonoscopy is not only common, but to be expected,” Dr. Jirik explains. The extensive bowel cleansing required before the procedure—combined with a restrictive diet—empties most of the stool from the digestive tract.
However, it can also lead to mild dehydration, which may contribute to constipation. “Many patients frequently describe symptoms of constipation after a colonoscopy as lack of bowel movements for several days after the procedure.”
Dr. Jirik adds that the colon’s natural rhythm may temporarily slow due to several factors: The procedure itself involves some manipulation of the colon, as well as the introduction of air to improve visibility. Certain medications used during sedation or anesthesia can also affect normal bowel movement (peristalsis), making it sluggish for a short period.
Fortunately, these effects typically resolve within a few days, and staying well-hydrated can help encourage a quicker return to normal digestion.
How to find relief from constipation after a colonoscopy
Dr. Jirik says post-colonoscopy constipation varies from person to person, and the best approach to relief depends on how you’re feeling. Here are doctor-approved recommendations to help ease discomfort:
- Stay hydrated and active: If you’re otherwise comfortable but haven’t had a bowel movement for a few days, focus on drinking plenty of water, moving your body, and eating your usual diet as tolerated.
- Try a gentle stool softener: Over-the-counter options like docusate sodium (Colace) or polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX) can help make bowel movements easier.
- Ease gas and bloating: If you’re experiencing discomfort from trapped gas, medications such as simethicone (Gas-X) can provide relief.
- Call your doctor if symptoms persist: If bloating or discomfort lasts more than three to five days, or if you feel uncomfortable, reach out to your doctor for additional guidance.
Other potential colonoscopy side effects
Dr. Jirik notes that, in addition to constipation, a colonoscopy may cause other potential side effects, including:
- Temporary fluid leakage: This is usually just leftover liquid from the bowel prep and should resolve quickly.
- Cramping and bloating: As the digestive system readjusts, mild discomfort may occur but typically subsides within a day or two.
- Increased gas: A buildup of air during the procedure can lead to extra flatulence, which may last for up to five days.
How long does it take to fully recover from a colonoscopy?
“The majority of patients…feel mostly normal and recover by the following day to resume all of their regular activities and diet,” Dr. Jirik says. “The best way to prepare for and recover from a colonoscopy is to closely follow all of the pre- and post-procedure instructions provided to them from their provider.”
However, recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Several factors, such as medical history, medications, the type of bowel prep used, and individual anatomy, can influence how someone feels after their colonoscopy. While many people feel fine within 24 hours, others may experience temporary side effects or lingering grogginess from sedation.
When to see a doctor
If you’re experiencing constipation after colonoscopy and discomfort persists for more than three to five days, it’s important to follow up with the doctor who performed the procedure.
However, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious issue that requires immediate medical attention. If you have constipation along with any of the following symptoms, seek emergency care immediately:
- Abdominal distention and pain
- Fever or chills
- Rectal bleeding
- Nausea or vomiting
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