Best Laxatives For Women: Safe And Effective Relief

Constipation is a common issue that affects many people, and laxatives are often used to provide relief. However, with a variety of laxatives available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best option for women. This paragraph will explore the different types of laxatives, their effectiveness, and safety considerations for women, providing guidance on selecting the most suitable laxative for female users.

Bulk-forming laxatives

Before taking bulk-forming laxatives, it is important to consult a doctor if you have difficulty swallowing, kidney disease, or diabetes, as there is a risk of electrolyte imbalances. Laxatives may also impact how the body absorbs medications, so it is advised not to take any medication within two hours of taking a laxative. Bulk-forming laxatives should only be used in the short term, unless otherwise instructed by a doctor.

Osmotic laxatives

Some common osmotic laxatives include:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG): This is an organic compound derived from petroleum that can be safely ingested to manage constipation. Available over the counter, PEG-containing laxatives include Miralax and GlycoLax.
• Lactulose: This is a type of sugar that is not absorbed by the intestine. Instead, it sits and ferments in the intestines, producing fatty acids that draw water into the colon. Available by prescription, lactulose-containing laxatives include Cephulac, Duphalac, and Kristalose.
• Sorbitol: This is another non-absorbable sugar with an action similar to lactulose. Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription versions are available, including Arlex and GeriCare.
• Magnesium citrate: Magnesium citrate is magnesium in salt form combined with citric acid. The salts help draw water into the colon. OTC versions include Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma, and LiquiPrep.
• Magnesium hydroxide: This is a milder form of magnesium sold under the brand name Milk of Magnesia. Available over the counter, Milk of Magnesia is also used as an antacid.

If you are experiencing chronic constipation, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and increased fluid intake may be sufficient to improve the condition.

Stool softeners

There are two types of stool softeners: oral and rectal. Oral softeners are more commonly used and easier to administer. They come in capsule, liquid, and tablet form and are usually taken at bedtime. Rectal softeners are more effective in providing prompt relief. They come in the form of suppositories or enemas.

The active ingredients in stool softeners are docusate sodium and docusate calcium. Docusate sodium is the active ingredient in many stool softeners, including Colace, Phillips' Stool Softener, Fleet Sof-Lax, and DulcoEase. It helps increase the water and fat content of the stool, causing it to become softer. Colace is the number one doctor-recommended stool softener brand and has been trusted by doctors and patients for nearly 60 years.

Other brands of stool softeners include Correctol, Diocto, Doxinate, Ex-Lax Stool Softener, Modane Soft, Surfak, and Geri-Care. Some softeners, like Senna-Plus Natural Vegetable Laxative + Stool Softener Tablets, use natural senna to provide a safe and non-habit-forming remedy for constipation.

It's important to note that stool softeners are intended for short-term use and can take up to 72 hours to work. They should not be taken for more than one week unless directed by a healthcare provider. Side effects may include stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhoea.

Lubricant laxatives

Side effects of lubricant laxatives can include anal seepage, pruritus ani (intense itching around the anus), perianal discomfort, intestinal malabsorption, and rectal leakage. Long-term use can cause dependence and may also lead to lung inflammation if the vapours are inhaled.

Stimulant laxatives

The active ingredients in stimulant laxatives are usually senna (also known as sennosides) or bisacodyl. Some popular brands that use these ingredients include:

• Senexon (sennosides)
• Fletcher's Castoria (sennosides)
• Senokot (sennosides)
• Black Draught (sennosides)
• Feen-A Mint (bisacodyl)
• Correctol (bisacodyl)
• Dulcolax (bisacodyl)
• Carter's Little Pills (bisacodyl)

You should not use stimulant laxatives for more than a week unless specifically advised to do so by a doctor. They can be habit-forming and harmful to your bowels if used for an extended period of time. Do not give stimulant laxatives to children under the age of six unless instructed to do so by a paediatrician.

Frequently asked questions