After Hernia Surgery I Ended Up Being Constipated Even Though

After hernia surgery I ended up being constipated even though I did everything to the letter as my surgeon told me. 3 days after surgery I went to the ER for the constipation (very painful) and they sent me home with something to drink to help me with my bowel movement. However it seemed to create a greater sense to go and involuntarily I pushed really hard (couldn't help it I was in a lot of pain)...how can I tell if I did damage to the repaired area?