“Gastroenterologist Reveals the Simple Toilet Posture That Makes Passing Constipated Stool Easier”

Are you struggling on the toilet, sweating and straining just to pass stool? While diet, medications, and treatments often help, one simple factor is often overlooked: posture.

Gastroenterologist Dr. Joseph Salhab, known on Instagram as The Stomach Doc, explained in a September 16 post why adjusting your posture can make bowel movements easier.

Many people sit hunched or slouched on the toilet—scrolling on their phone or avoiding the splash—but this position isn’t ideal for passing stool. Dr. Salhab highlights a simple hack: raising your feet.

“This isn’t just a gimmick,” he said. “Elevating your feet gives you a squatting posture, which relaxes your puborectal muscle and straightens your anorectal angle. This allows stool to move with less resistance, less straining, and much faster.”

The benefits go beyond ease of bowel movements. People with chronic constipation or hemorrhoids may find relief, as the posture reduces straining. Even a basic footrest or stool can help achieve the correct squatting angle, supporting your back and feet.

Dr. Salhab emphasized, “This can help with constipation, hemorrhoids, and straining-related issues. You can use any inexpensive stool at home.”

In short, a small change in how you sit can make a big difference. Less straining not only makes pooping easier but also helps prevent worsening existing problems like hemorrhoids.