In discharge teaching about elimination after childbirth, which statement should the nurse include?

• A. Decrease fluids to prevent urinary frequency.
• B. Increase fluids to help prevent constipation.
• C. Rely on laxatives routinely.
• D. Limit fiber intake.

Answer: (B)

Postpartum elimination hinges on preventing constipation, which can worsen perineal pain and delay healing. Increasing fluids helps soften and bulk stools, making them easier to pass and reducing straining during bowel movements. This supports recovery of the perineal area and promotes regular elimination. Decreasing fluids would raise the risk of dehydration and harder stools; relying on laxatives routinely isn’t appropriate because it can lead to dependence and doesn’t address hydration and stool softness; limiting fiber is counterproductive since a higher-fiber diet with adequate fluids helps stool passage. So, telling the patient to increase fluids to help prevent constipation is the best instruction for discharge.