Melatonin and constipation

Recently I learned older daughter has been taking melatonin to help her sleep. The law firm where she works is busy and she’s working overtime at night.

This past weekend we were having dinner together at her place, and I noticed her new silicone fountain syringe hanging in the shower. I asked her what was happening, and she said that she thought the melatonin was making her constipated. She had given herself an enema that morning.

I adore my 30s daughter more than I can ever say. She’s a really smart young woman, except she can also be really dense about some things. Once a mom always a mom, so I told her what I knew about melatonin, since I took it when I used to fly across time zones, and yes, it can and does cause constipation.

Melatonin is now all over the sleeping aid shelves in pharmacies. For those of you who have or are taking melatonin, what has been your experience?

While I have not used Melatonin, I can't help but wonder if the extra down time (sleep) has an effect on the bowel. I do sometimes use Diphenhidramine.

I find that I sometimes sleep, or fight through those natural urges, that I shouldn't ignore. By the time I'm upright, things are so dry that the extra boost of a quick enema are the easiest way to get things moving.

It may be akin to “withholding” that some refer to, especially as kids or younger persons that are so busy they ignore the natural signals.

In any case, an enema can be a great way to kick off a hectic day of work or fun!