Constipation Awareness Month: Causes, Prevention & When to Seek Medical Help

What is Constipation Awareness Month?

Constipation Awareness Month is a global healthcare initiative observed annually throughout December, led by the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). This awareness campaign addresses the challenges faced by millions living with constipation whilst promoting better understanding of digestive health. The initiative aims to normalise conversations about bowel health, reduce embarrassment, and encourage people to seek appropriate medical attention.

During Constipation Awareness Month, healthcare organisations, medical professionals, and patient advocacy groups collaborate to raise awareness about constipation's impact on quality of life and mental wellbeing.

When is Constipation Awareness Month Observed?

Constipation Awareness Month is observed throughout the entire month of December each year. The timing is particularly significant as it coincides with the holiday season when stress, altered routines, and dietary changes may contribute to digestive issues for many individuals. This makes December an ideal time to focus on digestive health awareness and prevention strategies.

Why Constipation Awareness Month 2025 is Important

• High Prevalence: According to the World Gastroenterology Organisation, chronic constipation affects 9-20% of adults globally, making it a widespread health concern requiring attention.
• Quality of Life Impact: Constipation significantly interferes with daily activities, affecting self-confidence and preventing full engagement in personal and professional life.
• Mental Health Considerations: Beyond physical discomfort, constipation impacts mental well-being, causing frustration, embarrassment, and anxiety.
• Vulnerable Populations: Women, older adults, and certain ethnic groups face disproportionately higher risks for developing constipation.
• Lack of Awareness: Despite being common, constipation remains poorly understood, with many unaware that effective treatments exist.
• Reducing Stigma: Many people suffer silently due to embarrassment, making awareness campaigns essential for normalising digestive health discussions.

What is Constipation?

Constipation is a complex digestive condition that manifests differently in each individual. The condition involves more than just frequency of bowel movements. It encompasses the overall difficulty and discomfort experienced during defecation, including hard stools, straining, and feelings of incomplete evacuation.
 

Also Read: Constipation: Symptoms, Causes, and Proven Treatment Strategies

Common Causes of Constipation

• Dietary Factors: Low fibre intake, inadequate water consumption, excessive processed foods, and high meat/dairy consumption.
• Lifestyle Issues: Sedentary behaviour, irregular eating patterns, and ignoring natural urges to defecate.
• Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can significantly impact bowel function.
• Medications: Certain pain relievers, antidepressants, and iron supplements may cause constipation.
• Medical Conditions: Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and neurological conditions can affect digestive function.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, menopause, and menstrual cycles influence bowel patterns.
• Age-Related Changes: Reduced muscle tone and slower metabolism affect digestive processes.

Symptoms of Constipation to Watch For

• Fewer than three movements per week or significant reduction from your normal pattern.
• Difficulty passing firm, pellet-like stools requiring excessive straining.
• Persistent feeling that bowel movements are incomplete despite efforts.
• Bloating, cramping, or pain in the lower abdomen.
• Requiring significant effort or time to have bowel movements.

Constipation Risk Factors

• Gender: Women experience constipation more frequently than men, particularly during pregnancy and menopause.
• Age: Older adults face increased risks due to medication use and reduced physical activity.
• Medical History: Previous abdominal surgery, chronic illnesses, or neurological conditions increase susceptibility.
• Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary jobs, irregular schedules, and frequent travel disrupt normal bowel patterns.
• Dietary Patterns: Low-fibre diets, inadequate hydration, and excessive processed food consumption.

How Constipation Affects Overall Health

For those living with chronic constipation, the condition significantly interferes with daily activities and prevents full engagement in personal and professional endeavours. The psychological impact proves substantial—people with constipation often report feelings of frustration, embarrassment, and anxiety.

This demonstrates that addressing constipation isn't merely about digestive health but about restoring overall quality of life and mental wellbeing. Chronic constipation can lead to complications including haemorrhoids, anal fissures, and faecal impaction, emphasising the importance of proper management and treatment.

Prevention Tips for Constipation

1. Consume 25-35 grams daily through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes for optimal digestive health.
2. Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.
3. Engage in 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily to stimulate intestinal muscle contractions.
4. Set consistent times for attempting bowel movements, particularly after meals.
5. Never delay when feeling the urge to defecate, as this can worsen constipation.
6. Practice relaxation techniques, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress-related digestive issues.
7. Reduce intake of low-fibre, high-fat foods that can contribute to constipation.
8. Include yoghurt, kefir, or probiotic supplements to support healthy gut bacteria.

Must Read: 13 Effective Home Remedies for Constipation That Actually Work

Role of Awareness & Education Campaigns in 2025

Constipation Awareness Month 2025 continues vital work in normalising conversations about digestive health and providing tools for better wellbeing. Education campaigns prove essential because many people suffer silently, unaware that simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve their digestive health. The Constipation Awareness Month theme emphasises that constipation is both treatable and preventable.

These campaigns work to fill knowledge gaps by providing comprehensive awareness and reducing stigma surrounding digestive issues. By fostering open conversations, awareness initiatives empower individuals to seek relief they deserve and improve their quality of life, countering misconceptions that constipation must simply be endured.

How to Participate in Constipation Awareness Month 2025

• Share Educational Content: Post reliable information about digestive health on social media platforms.
• Organise Community Workshops: Host local events discussing fibre-rich diet benefits and constipation prevention.
• Support Healthcare Initiatives: Participate in or donate to organisations promoting digestive health research.
• Encourage Open Conversations: Discuss digestive health openly with family and friends to reduce stigma.
• Consult Healthcare Providers: Schedule check-ups to discuss any ongoing digestive concerns.

Constipation Awareness Month 2025 Social Media Messages & Slogans

• "Digestive Health Matters: Break the Silence on Constipation"
• "Fibre-Rich Diet = Happy Gut: Small Changes, Big Results"
• "Constipation Awareness Month: Your Health Deserves Attention"
• "Don't Suffer in Silence: Constipation is Treatable"
• "Healthy Bowels, Healthy Life: Join the Conversation"

Tests for Constipation

• CBC (Complete Blood Count) Test: Helps identify underlying conditions, such as anaemia or infections affecting digestive function.
• Thyroid Profile Test: Evaluate thyroid hormone levels, as thyroid disorders can significantly impact bowel function and digestive health.
• Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) Test: Screens for diabetes, which can affect bowel function.
• Electrolytes Test: Evaluates mineral imbalances that might impact digestive health.
• CRP Test (C-Reactive Protein): Assesses for conditions causing chronic inflammation.
• Coeliac Disease Basic Profile -1: Screen for autoimmune conditions that may cause digestive symptoms.

Conclusion: Small Changes in Daily Habits Can Improve Bowel Health

Constipation Awareness Month reminds us that digestive health is fundamental to overall wellbeing and quality of life. By understanding the causes of constipation, implementing preventive strategies, and knowing when to seek medical help, you can take control of your digestive health. Simple changes like increasing your fibre-rich diet, staying adequately hydrated, exercising regularly, and managing stress can make remarkable improvements in bowel function.

At Metropolis Healthcare, we support your journey towards better digestive health with comprehensive diagnostic services. Our extensive portfolio of over 4,000 tests includes specialised panels for digestive health evaluation, helping identify underlying causes of constipation. With our convenient home sample collection service spanning 10,000+ touchpoints across India, you can access accurate diagnostics from the comfort of your home.

FAQs

What is Constipation Awareness Month, and why is it observed?

Constipation Awareness Month is observed in December to educate people about constipation, reduce stigma, and encourage seeking appropriate medical care for this common digestive condition.

What causes constipation the most?

Low fibre intake, inadequate water consumption, sedentary lifestyle, and ignoring natural urges to defecate are the most common causes of constipation in healthy individuals.

What is the fastest way to relieve constipation?

• Increase water intake immediately
• Consume high-fibre foods like prunes or berries
• Take a brisk walk to stimulate bowel movement
• Consider over-the-counter stool softeners if needed

How much fibre should I eat daily?

Adults should consume 25-35 grams of dietary fibre daily from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes for optimal digestive health and regular bowel movements.

Is constipation a sign of other diseases?

Chronic constipation can indicate underlying conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, or neurological issues, making medical evaluation important for persistent symptoms.

How can I manage constipation naturally at home?

• Establish regular bathroom routines
• Increase fibre-rich foods gradually
• Stay adequately hydrated throughout the day
• Exercise regularly to stimulate digestion

References

1. https://www.iffgd.org/news-events/awareness-month/
2. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation
3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation/
4. https://www.worldgastroenterology.org/UserFiles/file/guidelines/constipation-english-2025.pdf