Squatting may help people complete a bowel movement, particularly if they are constipated, but this position can be difficult with a pedestal toilet. Using a foot stool can help replicate a squatting position.
Constipation can occur at any age, although it may be
More immediate relief may come from changing the sitting position on the toilet. Research suggests a defecation posture modification device (DPMD), or footstool,
This article explores different positions while pooping and shows how changes in posture may help people have more satisfactory defecation experiences. It also offers tips for relieving constipation and adopting healthy toilet habits.
Most experts agree that squatting is the best position for people to poop. In a
Western toilet design encourages people to sit upright while pooping. Sitting is a less effective way of pooping as it adds unnecessary kinks in a person’s rectum, making it harder for them to have a bowel movement.
People who use a DPMD, or footstool, that lifts their knees higher than their hips recreate the squatting posture and straighten out these kinks.
This adjustment
Pooping is the body’s way of getting rid of waste products from digestion. People
Ideally, a person should act on this urge and use the bathroom. It is possible to delay a poop by squeezing the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. However, those who do this regularly
Healthy toilet habits to practice include the following:
- allowing enough time to poop without straining
- trying to poop at regular times each day
- using a stool to raise the knees above the hips when sitting
- using the toilet after feeling the urge to poop
- wiping from back to front
- washing hands thoroughly after pooping
As well as adjusting positions on the toilet, people can make some simple lifestyle changes to reduce their likelihood of constipation. The
- keeping well hydrated by drinking enough water
- eating more fiber, including fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beans
- limiting or avoiding fast foods and heavily processed foods, such as hot dogs
- taking regular exercise
- trying to poop at the same time each day
If constipation persists, people can speak with a healthcare professional about medication that may help or about stopping current medication that could be worsening their digestive issues.
Below are the answers to common questions about poop positions and constipation.
Is it better to lean forward or backward when pooping?
Leaning forward with the knees raised and elbows resting on the knees may help people
However, some people find leaning back helps when they are constipated. They may rock gently backward and forward or get up and walk around.
Is there a way to poop instantly?
The best way to poop instantly is to visit the bathroom as soon as possible after feeling the urge to go. However, if someone is constipated, their poop may be dry, hard, and lumpy, making it difficult to pass.
Laxatives can act quickly to help a bowel movement, while stimulant laxatives make the muscles in the digestive tract contract.
When a person uses stimulant laxatives as a suppository, they typically work within 15 minutes to 1 hour. Orally, they usually work within 6–8 hours.
How can someone relieve painful constipation?
Taking a walk or doing another form of gentle exercise
Taking steps to treat constipation, such as taking over-the-counter medication, staying hydrated, and changing position on the toilet may help encourage a bowel movement. People can speak with a doctor if the pain persists or worsens.
Squatting is the
Most people can manage symptoms of constipation with lifestyle changes. These include eating more fiber-rich foods, drinking more water or other fluids, and getting regular exercise.
If constipation symptoms do not improve after making these changes, people can speak with a healthcare professional for more help.