The topic is about the experience of feeling the urge to defecate after undergoing a Hartmann’s procedure, which is a type of surgery often performed for conditions like infected diverticula. This can be a bit confusing and concerning, especially when you feel like you need to use the toilet in the usual way. Here are some insights and advice that might help:

1. It's quite common to feel the urge to defecate after a Hartmann’s procedure. Many people find that they pass only mucus or very small amounts of stool.

2. These urges usually become less frequent over time, but they might continue indefinitely or happen every few months.

3. What you might pass can include:
- Clear to grey mucus, which might have a musty smell.
- Occasional spasms where nothing comes out.
- A sensation that feels just like a normal bowel movement.

4. This process is usually not painful, although some people do experience discomfort. It's best to sit on the toilet and let things pass naturally without straining.

5. The buildup of rectal mucus is normal because your remaining bowel still produces it, and it needs to exit. This is actually a positive sign if you are planning a reversal or takedown in the future.

6. If you experience irritation, inflammation, or painful urgency, some people find relief using:
- Anusol Cortisone suppositories, which are widely available and inexpensive in the U.S.
- Cortofoam or Proctofoam steroid foams, which are easier to get under the NHS but can be expensive in the U.S.
- Fleet Enema (saline enema) to help clear out mucus.

7. To cope with these urges, keep some reading material nearby, try to relax, and avoid forcing evacuation.

8. If you smoke, be aware that nicotine can increase the urgency. Reducing or stopping smoking might help decrease the frequency of these episodes.