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Constipation

What is Constipation?

Having a hard time going to the bathroom?  If you’re going less than three times a week, you may be suffering from constipation. But take heart--you’re not alone. More than 4 million Americans suffer from frequent constipation, and women are three times more likely to have stubborn bowels than men.  

Constipation, or the formation of dry, hard stool in the rectum, is not only embarrassing, uncomfortable, and painful, it can interfere with proper urinary function. If the rectum is filled with stool, pressure can move the bladder, affecting the ability to close tightly (and prevent urine leakage).

It’s very important to stay regular, as frequent or chronic straining (or bearing down) for a bowel movement can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, similar to pushing down on a hammock and stretching it. In addition, when you feel the need to go, make the effort to go. If chronically suppressed, the urge to have a bowel movement becomes less noticeable and more easily ignored.

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