How Natural Is It to Keep Putting Off Going to the Bathroom by Saying “I’ll Go in a While”?
Read this article in other languages:
ગુજરાતી (Gujarati): શૌચ અટકાવી રાખવાના નુકસાન: શરીરની કુદરતી હાજતને વારંવાર રોકવાથી શું થાય છે?
हिंदी (Hindi): शौच रोकने के नुकसान: शरीर की प्राकृतिक हाजत को बार-बार रोकने से क्या होता है?
It’s morning. The urge to defecate arises, but you’re in a hurry to get to work. “I’ll go in a little while…” you say, and hold it back.
If this happens occasionally, it usually doesn’t cause a major problem. But if the urge comes repeatedly and yet the habit of holding it back sets in, over time it can affect the digestive system and the body’s natural process of elimination.
Ayurveda does not consider it appropriate to suppress certain natural urges of the body. The urge to defecate (Malavega) is one such natural urge.
When the body signals that it’s time to have a bowel movement, it is more natural to go to the toilet as soon as possible, rather than repeatedly ignoring it.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Problems such as constipation, anal fissures, and hemorrhoids can worsen from the habit of holding back stool.
- According to Ayurveda, suppressing the urge to defecate goes against the body’s natural process and affects Vata dosha.
- Giving yourself enough time in the morning, drinking enough water, and eating a fiber-rich diet help build a good bowel habit.
- Attention should be paid to this habit in children from an early age too.
What Happens in the Body When the Urge to Defecate Arises?
In our large intestine, stool is formed after water is absorbed from digested food. When stool reaches the rectum, the stretching there signals to the body that it’s time to defecate.
This process involves coordination between the brain, the intestines, and the pelvic floor muscles.
Now, if we repeatedly ignore this signal and hold back the urge, over time the body may start experiencing this signal differently.
This is why, in some people, what starts as simply “the habit of delaying defecation” can later develop into constipation, hard stool, or the problem of having to strain more during defecation.
The Importance of Malavega in Ayurveda
Ayurveda explains certain natural processes in the body as Adharaniya Vega — that is, urges that should not be unnecessarily suppressed.
Suppressing the urge to defecate is thought to disrupt the movement of Vata dosha.
In particular, the function of Apana Vayu is connected with the proper elimination of stool, urine, and so on. When the process of natural elimination is repeatedly obstructed, symptoms such as heaviness in the abdomen, gas, discomfort, and difficulty with bowel movements can appear.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, the main point here is not simply that “holding back stool is bad.”
It is not appropriate to repeatedly push the body’s natural movement in the opposite direction.
What Problems Can Arise From Holding Back Stool?
Not everyone is affected in the same way. Still, the habit of repeatedly holding back stool can be associated with the following problems.
1. Constipation
This is one of the most common problems.
When stool remains in the rectum for a long time, more water can be absorbed from the large intestine. As a result, the stool can become harder and drier.
This then requires straining more during defecation.
This way, a cycle can form:
Holding back stool → stool becoming harder → difficulty defecating → the habit of holding back or avoiding stool again → worsening constipation.
2. Excessive Straining During Defecation
To pass hard stool, a person often strains more.
Doing this repeatedly can increase strain on the pelvic floor and, in some people, increase the risk of problems like hemorrhoids.
But holding back stool is not the sole cause of hemorrhoids. Chronic constipation and excessive straining during defecation are also important factors.
3. Anal Fissure
Very hard stool passing through can create a small tear in the skin.
This is called an anal fissure.
It can involve symptoms such as:
- Sharp pain during defecation
- Burning after defecation
- A little fresh blood on the tissue
Once a fissure occurs, if a person starts holding back stool out of fear of pain, constipation can worsen further.
Here, another cycle begins:
Hard stool → fissure → pain → fear of defecation → holding back stool → even harder stool.
4. Risk of Hemorrhoids
Repeated constipation and excessive straining during defecation can increase pressure on the blood vessels around the anal region.
This can create a risk of developing hemorrhoids or worsening an existing case.
But one thing is important to remember:
Holding back stool once or twice does not, by itself, cause hemorrhoids.
Long-term constipation, repeated straining, and other factors are more significant.
5. Heaviness and Bloating in the Abdomen
If stool remains in the intestine for a long time, some people may experience:
- A feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
- Bloating
- Gas
- Gurgling in the stomach
- Discomfort
If a person already has a constipation problem, the habit of holding back stool can make it more difficult.
6. Change in the Natural Rhythm of Defecation
This point is quite important.
Defecation is not merely the process of “expelling stool.” It is a coordinated action of the body, brain, and intestines.
If a person repeatedly ignores the urge, over time they may experience the urge to defecate less clearly, or they may need to spend more time and effort to defecate.
Especially in people with long-standing constipation, there can be a problem of stool accumulating in the rectum and changes in the sensation of defecation.
The Role of Vata Dosha in This Problem, From an Ayurvedic Perspective
In Ayurveda, Apana Vayu is considered to be connected with the various downward elimination processes of the body.
Defecation is one of its important functions.
The Ayurvedic view is that repeatedly holding back the urge to defecate obstructs the natural movement of Apana Vayu.
As a result, some patients may experience symptoms such as:
- Abdominal distension
- Stomach pain
- Gas
- Constipation
- Difficulty with bowel movements
But it is not appropriate to understand every case of constipation simply in terms of “Vata dosha.” Modern medical factors such as diet, water intake, physical activity, medications, certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders, and intestinal function also need to be examined.
When Does the Habit of Holding Back Stool Occur More Often?
This habit is often developed by a person knowingly or unknowingly.
Being Busy at Work
Having work at the office and not wanting to get up repeatedly.
Traveling
Not wanting to use a public restroom.
Schoolchildren
Hesitation about the school bathroom or being caught up in playing.
Concerns About Toilet Cleanliness
Some people don’t feel comfortable defecating in public places.
Fear of Pain
If hard stool has caused pain before, a person may hold back the urge again.
This last reason is especially important, because here, instead of addressing the root problem, holding back stool can make the problem more serious.
How to Develop a Good Bowel Habit?
The body likes regularity.
Give Yourself Time in the Morning
In many people, intestinal movement naturally increases after a meal. So making it a habit to allow enough time in the morning before going to the bathroom can be useful.
Don’t Delay Too Long When the Urge Arises
If possible, don’t repeatedly ignore the urge to defecate.
Drink Enough Water
Getting enough fluids according to the body’s needs helps soften stool.
Increase Fiber in Your Diet
Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and other fiber-rich foods should be taken according to the person’s tolerance.
But starting with too much fiber suddenly can cause gas and bloating in some people. So increase it gradually and drink enough water.
Walk Regularly
Daily physical activity is useful for normal intestinal movement.
Don’t Strain Excessively During Defecation
Rather than sitting for a long time and straining, try to let defecation happen naturally.
What Should Be Kept in Mind From an Ayurvedic Perspective?
If a person suffers from frequent constipation, instead of just taking “medicine for defecation,” it’s important to understand the reason behind it.
In Ayurvedic treatment, the following aspects may be considered:
Agni: How is the digestion of food?
Vata: Is there gas, dryness, bloating, and irregularity?
Mala (stool): Is the stool hard or sticky? How frequently does it occur?
Diet: Is it too dry, packaged, or low in fiber?
Daily routine: How are sleep, physical activity, and meal timing?
Mental state: Does stress or anxiety affect bowel habits?
It is more appropriate to choose proper management only after answering all these questions.
An Important Note About Home Remedies
Don’t get into the habit of immediately taking any strong laxative or herbal powder as soon as constipation occurs.
Certain Ayurvedic substances, in the right dosage, can be useful for some people, but they should be chosen according to the individual’s condition.
Especially in long-standing constipation, it is more important to find the root cause than to repeatedly take laxatives on your own.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If constipation or bowel problems persist repeatedly, a medical evaluation should be done.
In particular, the following symptoms should not simply be considered “ordinary constipation”:
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent or severe abdominal pain
- Repeated vomiting
- Fever
- Severe bloating
- Continuous severe pain with defecation
- Newly started and persistent constipation
- A significant and persistent change in bowel habits
- Severe abdominal bloating with the inability to pass both stool and gas
In such circumstances, a proper medical examination is necessary.
The Habit of Holding Back Stool in Children
This problem needs special attention in children.
If a child experiences pain during defecation, they may start holding back stool afterward. Stool then remains longer in the intestine and hardens, causing more pain during the next defecation.
This can create a cycle of pain → holding back stool → hard stool → more pain.
Instead of scolding the child, it is better to calmly explain, establish a regular bathroom habit, and consult a pediatrician if needed.
Does Holding Back Stool Once Cause Harm?
Generally, if you have to hold back stool for a short time due to circumstances, it usually doesn’t cause immediate serious harm.
The problem arises when:
The habit of repeatedly ignoring the urge to defecate sets in.
Here, rather than “how many hours was stool held back,” how often and for how long has this habit been going on is more important.
Remember
Repeatedly suppressing the body’s natural urges has become a common habit in our busy lives.
But when the body signals that it’s time to defecate, we should give it time whenever possible.
Good digestive strength is not built simply by eating good food. Proper diet, enough fluids, regular movement, adequate sleep, and respect for the body’s natural functions — all of this together helps keep the digestive system healthy.
Ayurveda’s message is fundamentally the same:
Understand the body’s natural movement, do not unnecessarily reverse it, and when a problem arises, try to understand not just the symptom but the root cause.
📚 References
A general explanation based on traditional Ayurvedic principles related to Vega-Dharana (suppression of natural urges) and Vata dosha.
👤 About the Author
Dr. Nikul Patel (BAMS) — years of experience practicing Ayurvedic medicine. See our About page for more information.
Dr. Nikul Patel (B.A.M.S.)
307, 3rd Floor, Shalin Complex, Above Farki Lassi, Krishnabaug Char Rasta, Maninagar, Ahmedabad – 380008
Timings: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM | Saturday–Sunday: Closed
📍 Clinic Location — Google Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
Does holding back stool cause constipation?
Repeatedly holding back the urge to defecate can contribute to worsening constipation, especially when the stool starts becoming hard and bowel habits become irregular.
Does holding back stool cause hemorrhoids?
Holding back stool just once or twice does not cause hemorrhoids. But chronic constipation and repeatedly straining excessively during defecation can increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
Can holding back stool cause bloating?
Yes, especially when stool remains in the intestine for a long time along with constipation, some people may experience bloating, heaviness, and gas.
Is it necessary to have a bowel movement only in the morning?
No. Every person’s natural bowel rhythm is different. What matters is easy defecation and not repeatedly ignoring the urge.
Should you take a laxative right away if you’re constipated?
Not every time. In frequent or long-term constipation, it’s important to find the underlying cause. The right medicine or Ayurvedic herb should be taken according to the person’s condition and with expert advice.
People also ask
What happens if you hold back stool?
Repeatedly holding back the urge to defecate can increase the likelihood of the stool becoming harder, worsening constipation, and straining more during defecation. Because of this, some people may develop problems such as hemorrhoids, anal fissure, bloating, and difficulty with bowel movements. Occasionally holding stool for a short time usually doesn’t cause serious harm, but making it a regular habit is not advisable.
Dr. Nikul Patel (B.A.M.S.)
307, 3rd Floor, Shalin Complex, Above Farki Lassi, Krishnabaug Char Rasta, Maninagar, Ahmedabad – 380008
Timings: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM | Saturday–Sunday: Closed
📍 Clinic Location — Google Maps
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