Constipation Directory
Constipation is a common but painful condition that occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult. It can be caused by nutritional deficiencies, stress, pregnancy, cancer, depression, and more. The best way to prevent constipation is eating a healthy diet, exercising, and drinking plenty of water. Laxatives can help relieve constipation. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about what causes constipation, how to treat it, and more.
Medical Reference
-
Why Can’t I Poop?
Can’t go? You’re not alone. Over 42 million Americans have bowel movements less than three times a week.
-
Symptoms of Constipation
Learn more about the symptoms of constipation from WebMD.
-
The Basics of Constipation
WebMD's guide to constipation, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
-
Water: A Fluid Way to Manage Constipation
Always constipated? Drinking plenty of water and other natural fluids can help. WebMD explains the connection between hydration and constipation.
Features
-
Chronic Constipation: Facts vs. Myths
Chronic constipation is a common problem that can often be relieved by following a multifaceted lifestyle approach to treatment.
-
Pregnancy 101: Things Mom Never Told You
You know about the stretch marks and the morning sickness, but there are many other pregnancy symtpoms. Find out what to expect during pregnancy.
-
Tips to Ease Your Fear of Pooping in Public Places
Worried you’ll have an urgent need to hit the restroom when you’re away from home? Here’s how to be prepared.
-
The Truth About Baby Poop: Colored Stool and Diarrhea in Infants
Find out what color changes, diarrhea, and frequency of baby poop may say about your baby's health.
Video
-
The Truth About Constipation
Leading GI specialist and psychiatrist, Dr. Douglas A. Drossman, gives frank advice on what to do about constipation.
-
Video: Should You Sit or Squat to Poop?
Our modern-day toilet might be a poor design. Is it better to squat instead of sit while going No. 2? Pop a squat and get the rundown before you run to the restroom.
-
Constipation & Hydration
Are you drinking enough water to stay regular?
-
Constipated? Check Your Diet
Constipated? Check your diet to see if you're getting all the right nutrients like fiber.
Slideshows & Images
-
Slideshow: Easing Constipation on Vacation
Don't worry about bathroom problems when you travel. See how to prevent and treat constipation when you're on vacation.
-
Slideshow: Myths and Facts About Constipation
Constipated? See why you may be having problems with your bowel movements and whether fiber, water, and exercise can help with constipation.
-
What Kind of Poop Do I Have?
The Bristol Stool Scale is a way to talk about shapes and types of poop, what doctors call stools. It's also known as the Meyers Scale.
-
Slideshow: A Visual Guide to Irritable Bowel Syndrome
WebMD's overview covers IBS symptoms, causes, medicines, and trigger foods, as well as lifestyle tips for managing this disruptive, but common, irritable bowel condition.