How many times do you defecate normally? This is the UMSurabaya Lecturer's Explanation

• 23 Aug
• 2023

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How many times do you defecate normally? This is the UMSurabaya Lecturer's Explanation

• Article
• By Uswah Sahal
• Health
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Defecation or defecation is one of the most important physiological functions in the body. Although it is often considered taboo to talk about it, understanding the normality of this process is very important for maintaining one's health and quality of life.

The pattern and frequency of defecation in adults can vary from person to person. There are no exact numbers, some individuals may have bowel movements every day, while others may only have a few times a week. Both of these patterns can be considered normal as long as there are no symptoms that indicate an underlying health problem.

Firman Lecturer at the Faculty of Health Sciences (FIK) UM Surabaya said that the keys to normality are comfort and consistency.

"If someone consistently experiences a marked change in the pattern or frequency of their bowel movements, it can be a sign that further evaluation by health workers is needed," said Firman Wednesday (23/8/23)

He explained, stool consistency is also an important factor in assessing the normality of defecation. Normal stool usually has a soft texture, easy to pass, not too hard and not too runny.

The term "Bristol Stool Scale" is used to describe various types of stool consistency, ranging from very hard (type 1) to liquid (type 7). Ideally the desired stool consistency is type 3 to 4, which exhibits a good balance between softness and firmness.

Stool color can vary from light to dark brown, depending on diet and digestive process. Striking color changes, such as black or red stools, can be a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract and should be evaluated immediately by a health professional.

Some common problems that often occur during bowel movements, the first being constipation or constipation, a condition when bowel movements become slow, causing stools to become hard and difficult to pass. This can be caused by a low-fiber diet, lack of water consumption, lack of physical activity, and delaying bowel movements.

Second, diarrhea, where the stool becomes more liquid and occurs several times at the same time with more frequent intensity than usual. Causes of diarrhea can vary, including bacterial, viral, parasitic infections, food, or reactions to certain medications.

Third, hemorrhoids, or also known as hemorrhoids, this occurs when the blood vessels in the anus and rectum area swell, which can be caused by excessive pressure during bowel movements, chronic constipation, or other causes.

Lastly fissures, these are small cuts or cracks in the skin around the anus. This is often the result of passing hard stools

"Therefore, in order to avoid some of these problems, we must fulfill adequate fiber intake, both from fruits and vegetables, because fiber helps keep stools soft and facilitates bowel movements. Then consume enough water, exercise regularly and avoid delaying defecation," said Firman.