Why Squatting is Essential for Your Child's Bowel Movements

You need to squat to be able to pass it out?

Hello, doctor.
My son is 11 years old and he says he can only have a bowel movement when squatting.
He has been sitting down to use the toilet since he was little, but he hasn't been able to break this habit.
Is this just a habit, or are there people who actually have this issue? Is it a condition? If so, should we seek medical attention? Which specialist should we see? Thank you.

Mr. Huang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/07

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Is it better to exert more muscle effort while squatting to have a bowel movement, or are there psychological factors involved, such as feeling insecure about a large toilet seat and fearing falling off, making squatting feel safer? It would be advisable to consult a pediatrician or a pediatric gastroenterologist.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2024/02/07

More Info

Squatting is an essential position for effective bowel movements, and it is quite common for children to develop preferences for certain postures when using the toilet. In your case, your 11-year-old son prefers to squat while defecating, which may stem from a combination of anatomical, physiological, and habitual factors.

Why Squatting is Beneficial
1. Anatomical Alignment: The human body is designed in such a way that squatting aligns the rectum in a more favorable position for the passage of stool. When a person squats, the puborectalis muscle relaxes, straightening the rectum and allowing for easier elimination. In contrast, sitting on a standard toilet can create a kink in the rectum, making it more difficult to pass stool.

2. Increased Pressure: Squatting increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can help propel stool through the colon and out of the body. This is particularly beneficial for children who may have difficulty with constipation or incomplete bowel movements.

3. Cultural Practices: In many cultures around the world, squatting is the norm for defecation. Children raised in such environments may naturally gravitate towards this position, as it feels more comfortable and effective for them.

Habit vs. Medical Condition
Your son's preference for squatting is likely a habit rather than a medical condition. It is not uncommon for children to develop specific habits regarding how they use the toilet, and these habits can be influenced by their early experiences with potty training. If he has always been encouraged to sit, but finds squatting more comfortable, it may simply be a matter of personal preference.

However, if your son is experiencing discomfort, pain, or any other concerning symptoms while using the toilet, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional. In such cases, a pediatrician or a pediatric gastroenterologist would be the appropriate specialists to evaluate his bowel habits and overall gastrointestinal health.

Recommendations
1. Encourage Comfortable Positioning: If squatting is what works best for your son, consider allowing him to continue doing so, as long as it is safe. You might explore options like a squatty potty or a footstool that allows him to elevate his feet while sitting on the toilet, mimicking a squatting position.

2. Monitor for Issues: Keep an eye on his bowel habits. If he experiences constipation, pain, or any other gastrointestinal issues, it would be advisable to seek medical advice.

3. Education on Bowel Health: Educate your son about the importance of regular bowel movements and healthy dietary habits, including adequate fiber intake and hydration. This can help prevent constipation and promote overall digestive health.

4. Consult a Professional: If you have concerns about his bowel habits or if he expresses discomfort, do not hesitate to consult a pediatrician. They can provide guidance and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.

In conclusion, while squatting is a natural and beneficial position for bowel movements, your son's preference for this method is likely a habit rather than a sign of a medical issue. However, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers is essential to ensure his gastrointestinal health and comfort.

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