Expert reveals exactly what happens to your body when you hold in your poo
Gerrard Kaonga
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Image
Doctors have revealed the dangers that can arise if you hold in your poo too long and how your body responds.
While we all go to the toilet, it is hardly something we talk about all that often, even with friends.
This can lead to bad habits that are bad for your health, including holding your stool for too long before passing it.
Dr Wylie for IQdoctor explained what holding in your poo does to your body.
Advert
Speaking to Metro, they said: “When stool remains in the bowel for longer than it should, more water is absorbed from it, making it harder, drier, and more difficult to pass.
“This can lead to constipation, straining, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and a feeling of incomplete emptying.”
While this can be uncomfortable, the doctor also warned of an even more concerning scenario.
They continued: “In more severe cases, stool can become impacted, meaning it is so hard and large that it cannot be passed without medical treatment.”
When you eventually do try to go to the toilet, if you’ve made a habit of holding it in, you could also need to strain.
The doctor added: “This increases pressure in the abdomen and around the anus, which can contribute to haemorrhoids (piles) and anal fissures, which are small tears in the lining of the back passage."
Australian gastroenterologist Professor Peter Katelaris has previously issued similar warnings.
Speaking to news.com.au, he said: “Some people expect their bowels to open when they want them to, typically after breakfast and before work.
"They sit in hope and expectation, sometimes for a long time, waiting for something to happen.”
The forced straining can then cause painful splits in the skin of the anus, known as fissures, as well as itchy, uncomfortable hemorrhoids.
In older people, straining can cause blood pressure to spike, which could in some cases result in a heart attack or a stroke.
So, how often should we be passing stool?
Prof Katelaris issued an important reminder: that 'our bodies are not machines.'
He added that people shouldn't worry if they're not pooping every single day.
“What is normal for one person may not be normal for another. In general, the majority of adults open their bowels between three times a day and three times a week,” he explained.
To keep your bowel movements regular, Katelaris recommends eating a balanced, portion-controlled, wholefood diet with minimal ultra-processed foods.
He also stresses the importance of drinking enough water to stay hydrated and getting an adequate amount of exercise.
However, if you notice any unusual, sustained changes with your bowel movement and poop, you should visit your general practitioner.