Could a simple laxative before surgery make recovery less painful?

NCT ID NCT06159777

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether taking a laxative (polyethylene glycol 3350) both before and after surgery helps reduce discomfort during bowel movements after pelvic prolapse repair. 74 women having minimally invasive surgery were randomly assigned to take the laxative before and after surgery or only after surgery. The goal was to see if the pre-surgery dose made a difference in constipation symptoms and quality of life.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Polyethylene glycol 3350 (Miralax)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could lead to a simple way to reduce post-surgery bowel discomfort for women undergoing pelvic prolapse repair.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed Phase 4 trial with only 74 participants. The results may not apply to all women or surgeries, and the laxative may cause side effects like bloating or diarrhea.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

constipation disorder pelvic organ prolapse Prolapse prolapse of female genital organ

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center

    Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, United States