Should You Push When Pooping?
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| Should You Push When Pooping? |
Personally Researched | Last Updated: July 2026 | Based on Clinical Studies & Personal Experience.
It feels natural to push a little when having a bowel movement, but too much pushing can actually cause harm over time.
Many people don't realize that straining is one of the leading causes of hemorrhoids and other digestive issues.
In this article, we will explain when a little pushing is okay, and when it becomes a problem.
A Little Effort Is Normal
Gentle effort during a bowel movement is a normal part of the process.
Your body naturally uses some muscle effort to help move stool along.
This kind of light effort is not usually harmful.
When Pushing Becomes a Problem
Straining becomes an issue when it is forceful, prolonged, or repeated.
This kind of intense pushing increases pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, which can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and even pelvic floor problems over time.
Why We End Up Straining
Straining is often a sign that stool is too hard or dry to pass easily. This usually happens because of:
- Not eating enough fiber
- Not drinking enough water
- Sitting for long periods without movement
- Ignoring the urge to go, which allows stool to harden further
The Risks of Frequent Straining
Hemorrhoids: increased pressure on rectal veins can cause them to swell
Anal fissures: small tears in the skin around the anus
Pelvic floor strain: long-term straining can weaken pelvic muscles
Rectal prolapse: in severe cases, straining can contribute to the rectum shifting out of place
Better Alternatives to Straining
Focus on relaxing rather than forcing the muscles.
Use a footstool to raise your knees, which naturally straightens the colon and reduces the need to push hard.
A simple posture fix can make a real difference — check out our guide to the Best Toilet Stools for Hemorrhoid Relief, compared by height, material, and weight capacity.
If nothing happens after a few minutes, get up and try again later.
Increase fiber and water intake to make stool softer and easier to pass.
To learn more about managing this condition long-term, take a look at these Top-Rated Hemorrhoid Books, reviewed and ranked to help you find the right resource for your situation.
Conclusion
While a small amount of natural effort during a bowel movement is normal, forceful or repeated straining can lead to real problems like hemorrhoids and fissures.
The better approach is to support your body with enough fiber, water, and good bathroom posture, so that bowel movements happen more naturally and with less effort.
If you often feel the need to strain, it may be worth looking at your diet and habits, or speaking with a doctor.
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- 5 Donut Pillows that Help with Hemorrhoids.
- 7 Best Hemorrhoid Squatty Potty Toilet Foot Stools.
- 10 High-Fiber Foods That Relieve Constipation Naturally
📚 Medical Sources
- Lohsiriwat, V. (2012). Hemorrhoids: From basic pathophysiology to clinical management. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 18(17), 2009–2017.
- Johanson, J.F., & Sonnenberg, A. (1990). The prevalence of hemorrhoids and chronic constipation. Gastroenterology, 98(2), 380–386.
- Sikirov, D. (2003). Comparison of straining during defecation in three positions. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 48(7), 1201–1205.
- Alonso-Coello, P., et al. (2006). Fiber for the treatment of hemorrhoids complications: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 101(1), 181–188.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Hemorrhoids.
