What should you know about slow transit constipation?

People may pass hard stools, strain, feel blocked, or still feel full after using the toilet. Bloating and abdominal discomfort can occur. The colon normally moves stool forward through coordinated muscle contractions; when that movement is sluggish, stool remains longer and more water is removed, making it harder to pass.

Low fluid intake, reduced activity, some medicines, and changes in eating patterns can contribute. A clinician may also consider [Hypothyroidism](/conditions/hypothyroidism/), [Irritable Bowel Syndrome](/conditions/irritable-bowel-syndrome/), or another bowel problem. Constipation can also occur with [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/).

Keep a record of bowel movements, stool form, pain, medicines, and food changes. Drink fluids regularly unless a clinician has given you a fluid restriction, add fibre gradually, and walk or move each day if able. A regular toilet routine after a meal and a footstool to raise the knees may make passing stool easier. [Nutrition Counselling](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/nutrition-counselling/) can help tailor changes. Do not start frequent laxatives or stop prescribed medicines without advice.

Arrange an assessment for persistent constipation, a new change in bowel habit, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss, blood in stool, or ongoing abdominal swelling. Seek urgent help for severe or worsening pain, a rigid abdomen, vomiting with inability to pass stool or gas, or marked weakness. These features can signal obstruction or another condition, including [Diverticular Disease](/conditions/diverticular-disease/).

Ask whether your symptoms fit slow transit constipation, whether any medicine could be slowing the bowel, and which treatment should be tried first. Ask whether thyroid assessment is appropriate and whether [Thyroid Hormone Replacement](/treatments/medical-management/thyroid-hormone-replacement/) would apply if hypothyroidism is found.