Psychosomatics of constipation

What psychosomatics says

Psychosomatics doesn’t explain why constipation happens. Its causes are more often everyday and physical, and you’re not to blame for it. First check diet, water, medicines and the thyroid with a doctor.

In psychosomatics, the bowel is linked to what we can let go of. Constipation is talked about as a habit of “holding in”: anger, hurt, old decisions, control. It is also linked to loneliness and a feeling that you must keep everything to yourself. It’s an image, not a diagnosis.

The NHS names stress and anxiety among causes of constipation, so questions to yourself are fitting. They go alongside diet and a doctor.

What it is

Constipation is when you go to the toilet fewer than three times a week, the stool is unusually hard, dry or lumpy, you strain, or you feel you haven’t fully emptied your bowels (NHS). You may also have a stomach ache, bloating and nausea. It’s common and affects people of all ages.

The NHS names the most common causes: not enough fibre and fluids, too little movement, often ignoring the urge to go, changes in diet or daily routine, medicine side effects, and also stress, anxiety and depression. Constipation is common in pregnancy and after giving birth. Sometimes there is no obvious reason. More rarely the cause is a medical condition, so a change in your usual bowel pattern is worth discussing with a doctor.

What helps: a balanced diet with fibre (fruit, vegetables, cereals, bran), enough water, a daily walk, a regular time for the toilet without hurrying, and a low stool under your feet so your knees are above your hips. Laxatives are for when a doctor or pharmacist advises them, and only for a short time: most work within 3 days.

MedlinePlus reminds us that you don’t have to go every day. What matters is whether your usual rhythm has changed.

How it shows up

• Stools fewer than three times a week
• Stool is hard, dry or lumpy
• You strain and it sometimes hurts
• You feel your bowels haven’t emptied fully
• Bloating and heaviness in the belly
• Constipation starts on trips, under stress or when your routine changes

Start with a general practitioner or a gastroenterologist. They’ll clarify the causes, including medicines, and order tests and examinations if needed. If constipation keeps coming back or doesn’t pass after changes in diet and routine, don’t put the visit off.