I've never taken stool softener before but I'm needing serious help! If I take it at 5pm today how long before would you usually notice a difference? Laxatives never work on me so the only other option I got is stool softener. It's not going to be one of those I take it today and I am in pain for a week and bam relief? Is there an alternative to medicine for this issue???? Will it make me cramp? Anybody have any advice?