Constipation occurs when bowel movements become more difficult or less frequent than normal. Of course, “normal” for one person is not necessarily “normal” for another. The typical length of time between bowel movements ranges widely from person to person. An epidemiologic study of constipation in the United States identified it as an inability to evacuate stool completely and spontaneously three or more times per week⁴. Check out the self-assessment calculator below to see if you may be suffering from constipation.

One of the best ways to help determine whether or not you are constipated is to keep a personal journal of your bathroom trips. Keeping track of your bowel movements will not only help you determine how frequently you feel constipated, but it also will be a beneficial tool to take to doctor appointments. It may seem strange at first, but the more detailed information you can give your doctor, the more accurately he or she can assess your situation.

>>Download a sample journal page.

Many people who meet the medical definition for constipation do not consider themselves to be constipated. In fact, 33 percent of women who meet the symptom criteria for constipation do not think they are constipated⁴. To help determine whether you might be constipated, or even chronically constipated, use this self-assessment calculator.

>>Use the Self-Assessment Calculator.