What is constipation?

Constipation corresponds to stools that are generally hard, less voluminous and less frequent than usual. These stools are more difficult to expel. In cases of constipation, the frequency of evacuation of stools is less than three times a week.

What are the causes of constipation?

Poor eating habits lead to the formation of stools with a low water or fibre content. A lack of exercise can also cause constipation. Certain types of medication, such as anti-inflammatories, can slow down peristalsis in the digestive tract. Food residues do not move fast enough, which means more water is reabsorbed in the colon, causing the stools to become harder and more difficult to evacuate.

Certain intense emotions, such as anxiety or stress, can also trigger constipation, as the muscle of the anus contracts instead of relaxing and prevents stools from being expelled. There are also psychological factors such as diarrhoea phobia, which is a fear of suffering from diarrhoea and not being able to find a toilet in time. This fear can delay and even stop defaecation.