If you’re worried you’re not pooping every single day, relax — it’s probably normal. While many people assume a daily bathroom routine is ideal, doctors say what really matters is how you feel and what your poop looks like.
“There’s no perfect number,” says Dr. Joseph Shami, a gastroenterologist with Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey. For some, three times a day is fine. For others, three times a week is perfectly normal. According to the American Journal of Gastroenterology, the “3 and 3” rule means healthy bowel habits can range from three times a day to three times a week.
So, when should you worry? Gastroenterologist Dr. Kenneth Brown says signs you’re not pooping enough include bloating, abdominal cramps, or straining on the toilet. Serious constipation can lead to painful hemorrhoids, small tears, or even fecal impaction — when stool gets so hard it’s stuck. “If you’re regularly spending more than 10 minutes on the toilet or feel you can’t fully go, it’s worth talking to a doctor,” adds UCLA’s Dr. Folasade P. May.
Doctors also stress that what’s in the bowl matters. Light-colored stool may indicate bile duct issues. Greasy, yellow poop might mean fat absorption problems. Blood could come from hemorrhoids, but can also signal more serious conditions like IBD or colorectal cancer, so always get it checked.
To maintain regularity, experts recommend a diet rich in fiber, plenty of water, and regular physical activity. And don’t ignore the urge — delaying can make stool harder to pass. Try a footstool, such as a Squatty Potty, for improved posture on the toilet.
Bottom line? Listen to your body — and your poop. When in doubt, peek before you flush!