Pain in the butt!
How to know if you’re constipated? Frequency may be somewhat informative, however, not having a bowel movement (BM) every day isn’t necessarily telling. Everyone’s frequency may be a bit different! Some people’s norm may be a BM 3x a day and others every other day (and of course other variances in between). However, if you’re heading to the porcelain throne less than 3x a week, this can be a telltale sign. Other signs you may be experiencing constipation include straining or having pain to evacuate your stool. Your stool may also be hard/lumpy/dry or come out in pebble type form. Symptoms of constipation can include abdominal bloating, pain, and cramping. Constipation can be short lived or become more of a major issue if left unresolved for a longer period of time. Having constipation for a short bout every once in a while is fairly common, however chronic constipation can affect around 15-20% of the adult population and becomes more of a pressing issue.
Common causes of constipation can include decreased overall activity levels, poor hydration intake, insufficient fiber intake, and/or ignoring the urge to go. Other factors that may play a role in constipation development may include increased stress, routine changes, and possible hormonal fluctuations. Certain medications can cause worsening constipation so it’s important to check with your doctor if medications may be playing a role.
Having to strain to poop is not something you should have to deal with!
How can pelvic physical therapy help?
Pelvic PTs can work wonders to help you improve upon and/or eliminate your constipation! Pelvic PTs work with you to make sure you are positioned correctly and breathing well on the toilet. They also make sure your muscles are working well so that they can pass stool easily and have good coordination to make sure things are as smooth as possible. They can also touch on the discussion of healthy diet and hydration. Further, they can assist you in observing your toileting set-up as there are tips/tools to assist in reducing tension on the pelvic floor to allow for improved bowel emptying.
Another fact: having constipation issues can directly relate to urinary issues. Often if you clear one issue up the other will vastly improve as well!
Remember if you are experiencing continuous straining and/or pain with bowel evacuation don’t wait any further to seek help as this can cause a snowball effect of other issues down the line….