The frequency of bowel movements varies greatly among individuals. Some may have up to three bowel movements a day, while others may go every other day. As long as stools are well-formed, easy to pass, and free from bloating or discomfort, there is typically no cause for concern.

Signs of constipation:

• Fewer than three bowel movements per week
• Difficulty passing stools or excessive straining
• Hard, dry stools or stools that resemble pellets
• Gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort
• A sense of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
• A constant feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen

If these symptoms persist for weeks or longer, it may indicate chronic constipation, which can disrupt daily life and suggest underlying issues like dehydration, digestive imbalances, or an unhealthy diet. 

If left unmanaged over time, constipation may contribute to complications such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and in more severe cases, fecal impaction.

Supporting bowel regularity early may help maintain healthy digestive function.

Common causes of constipation:

Approach of Care

Constipation management focuses on supporting bowel regularity, identifying contributing lifestyle and physiological factors, and improving overall digestive function.

Contributing factors may include diet, hydration status, motility, stress, and microbial balance.

Assessment may consider:

• Dietary intake including fibre and fluid balance
• Bowel motility and digestive function
• Lifestyle and stress-related influences
• Potential microbial imbalance or gut dysbiosis

Supportive strategies may include:

• Dietary adjustments to support bowel regularity
• Nutritional or supplemental support where appropriate
• Digestive support strategies to improve motility
• Functional testing where clinically indicated (e.g. stool testing, SIBO breath testing, food sensitivity testing)

When Care is Appropriate

Consider further evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent constipation that does not improve with dietary or lifestyle changes
• Ongoing difficulty passing stools or significant straining
• Symptoms such as bloating, discomfort, or incomplete evacuation that affect quality of life
• Dependence on laxatives or worsening bowel regularity over time
• Concerns regarding underlying digestive function or contributing health factors