*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature [CLICK HERE].

Considerations

Most people can use laxatives, but not all types are suitable for everyone.

Check with a GP or pharmacist before using laxatives if you:

have a bowel condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
have a colostomy or ileostomy, where the small or large intestine is diverted through an opening in the abdomen
have a heart condition, such as heart failure
are pregnant or breastfeeding
have an obstruction somewhere in your digestive system
have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
have a lactose intolerance, as some laxatives contain lactose
have phenylketonuria, a rare genetic condition where the body is unable to break down a substance called phenylalanine, as phenylalanine is found in certain bulk-forming laxatives
are taking opioid painkillers, such as codeine or morphine

These situations do not necessarily mean you cannot take laxatives, but certain types of laxative may be more suitable for you than others.

Children and laxatives

Always check with a GP before giving your baby or child a laxative.

Laxatives are not recommended for babies who have not been weaned.

If your unweaned baby is constipated, try giving them extra water in between feeds.

Gently massaging their tummy and moving their legs in a cycling motion may also help.

Babies who are eating solid foods may be able to use laxatives, but first make sure your baby drinks plenty of water or diluted fruit juice, and increase the amount of fibre in their diet.

If they're still constipated, a GP may prescribe or recommend a laxative.

Find out more about treating constipation in children

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature [CLICK HERE]. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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