It might sound funny—or downright gross—but more patients are showing up to doctors’ appointments armed with photo albums of their poop. From pediatricians to gastroenterologists, many physicians say they’re seeing stool snapshots on a regular basis. And while the “ick factor” is undeniable, experts agree: those pictures can sometimes make a big difference.
“Stools carry a lot of diagnostic information,” said Dr. Naheed Ali, a physician who has seen plenty of surprise poop photos. “A clear image can help us distinguish between harmless changes—like pigment from beets—and serious concerns such as gastrointestinal bleeding.” For doctors, a quick glance at a photo can often provide faster answers than a long list of questions.
Conditions like blood in stool, mucus, or oily residue can point toward issues ranging from dietary reactions to infections or malabsorption. Photos give doctors objective evidence, especially when symptoms are inconsistent or hard for patients to describe. As gastroenterologist Dr. Supriya Rao put it, “In GI medicine, stool is a vital sign.”
Not all doctors are thrilled about the trend. Some find it uncomfortable or unnecessary, noting that poor lighting or camera quality can distort what’s really going on. But many acknowledge that technology is empowering patients to be more engaged in their health.
For patients, the benefits can outweigh the awkwardness. A quick photo may help rule out serious conditions or speed up a diagnosis, as several patients have reported. Still, experts recommend courtesy—don’t shove your phone in your doctor’s face without warning.
The takeaway? While no one’s saying poop pics are pretty, they can be powerful. Your stool offers “free daily feedback from your gut,” said Dr. Tokunbo Akande. Taking a look—and sometimes a picture—might just help protect your health.
