Hi Hope-Full,

Sorry you're having to go through this. I think that taking just a stool softener (Colace, Docusate, Fleet, etc.) should be all you need. It is non-stimulant and works by drawing water from your body into the intestines, softening the stool and relieving your problem. If you want to try a non-medicated route to begin with, start with more water. If your intestines are "dry," it's gonna be hard for them to push things along. Also, I know it's cliche, but prune juice, prunes and even dried apricots may help. An increase in fiber works well too, but needs lots of water for "lubrication" during passage.

I apologize, I'm full of random bits of information... Remember that items that containing caffeine tend to have a dehydration effect, so you may wanna steer clear or again ... drink more water.