Laxatives and stool softeners are the first things most doctors recommend, and they're the same meds that anyone with constipation might use. Your doctor may suggest you take one before you even have the problem to prevent it.
Stool softeners make hard, dry waste easier to pass out of your body. Laxatives help your bowels move the stools out. You can buy many of these treatments over the counter. Ask your doctor or a pharmacist which ones may be best for you, and how long you’ll need to take them.
They'll start working after a few hours or a couple of days, depending on which laxative or stool softener you use.