Constipation

Constipation is a common condition that can cause discomfort, but there are strategies that can help restore regularity and wellbeing. Discover its causes, health impacts and treatment options to support better bowel habits.

Constipation is when faeces (poo) are hard, dry and infrequent or hard to pass. It may cause discomfort, bloating or a feeling of incomplete emptying.

Causes of constipation

Constipation can happen for many reasons, including:

• not eating enough fibre (from fruits, vegetables, wholegrains)
• not drinking enough fluids, especially when increasing fibre intake
• not doing enough exercise
• stress, anxiety, grief or depression
• ignoring the urge (need) to go to the toilet
• using laxatives for a long time
• side effects of some medicines eg pain relief or iron supplements.

Other causes include pregnancy, bowel conditions (eg irritable bowel syndrome, haemorrhoids) and medical conditions (eg Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or diabetes).

Health impacts of constipation

• Bowel – severe constipation can cause bowel incontinence
• Bladder – a full bowel may press on the bladder, causing a frequent urge (need) to pass urine (wee)
• Pelvic floor – straining can weaken pelvic floor muscles needed for control.

You can use the Bristol Stool Chart to check what healthy faeces (poo) look like.

Note: Stool is another word used to describe faeces (poo).

Tips for managing constipation

• drink at least 4 to 6 glasses of fluid daily (unless your doctor tells you not to)
• increase fibre from wholegrains, fruits, vegetables, legumes
• avoid low-fibre processed foods (eg cakes, biscuits, fast food) and fruit and vegetable juices
• regular exercise (eg walking) to stimulate the bowel.

Treatment options for constipation

Your GP (doctor) can rule out any underlying problems and help you find the right approach. They may recommend:

• laxatives – bulking agents, softeners or stimulants (these should be used as directed by your GP)
• suppositories or enemas for short-term relief, followed by a long-term plan.

This content has been reviewed by sub­ject mat­ter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.