Defecation (BAB) is one of the vital functions of the body that is often considered trivial in everyday life. In fact, this process is an important part of the excretory system that functions to remove metabolic waste from the body. Unfortunately, many people do not realize that the way or position when defecating can affect the smoothness of the digestive process and even have an impact on long-term health.
Disorders Due to Incorrect Defecation Position
Improper position during defecation can cause various disorders, such as chronic constipation, hemorrhoids, and even pelvic floor muscle disorders. Therefore, recognizing and implementing the correct defecation position is not only about comfort, but also part of an effort to maintain overall body health.
Anatomically, the human body is designed to defecate in a squatting position. In this position, the anorectal angle – the angle between the rectum (the end of the large intestine) and the anus – becomes more open and straight. This makes it easier for the stool to come out without having to strain excessively.
When someone squats, the puborectalis muscle, which is the muscle that surrounds the rectum and acts as a natural 'lock' to keep feces from coming out carelessly, will become more relaxed. As a result, the feces exit becomes more open and the defecation process can take place faster and smoother.
Unlike the sitting position commonly used in modern toilets, where the anorectal angle becomes narrower and forces the body to work harder to expel feces. This often causes a person to have to push harder, which can then cause excess pressure on the blood vessels around the anus and trigger hemorrhoids.
Modern Lifestyle to Maintain Natural Defecation Position
As time goes by and modern lifestyles develop, many people have switched from squatting toilets to sitting toilets because they are considered more comfortable and hygienic. However, this transition has a hidden impact on bowel habits and digestive health.
In some developed countries such as Japan and South Korea, awareness of the importance of proper defecation position has encouraged the use of aids such as small stools or toilet stools , which are placed in front of the toilet seat to support the legs. With this tool, the position of the legs becomes higher than the hips so that the body resembles a squatting position even though it remains sitting.
This method has been proven to help straighten the anorectal angle and make the bowel movement process more natural. In fact, various scientific studies have proven that the use of this stool can speed up bowel movements, reduce intra-abdominal pressure, and reduce the risk of diseases such as hemorrhoids and constipation.
The Importance of Correct Position When Defecating
More than just posture, the correct defecation position is also closely related to habits and self-awareness of health. Many people are accustomed to straining hard when defecating because the feces are difficult to pass, even though this is actually dangerous. The habit of straining excessively can damage the pelvic floor muscles, cause pelvic organ prolapse, and even trigger incontinence in the elderly.
In the long term, constant pressure on the rectum can also trigger the formation of diverticula or small pouches in the colon, which can potentially become infected and cause diverticulitis. All of this can be avoided by improving posture during bowel movements, regulating a high-fiber diet, and maintaining body hydration.
The Impact of Incorrect Defecation Position
Not only that, the squatting position or similar to squatting also has an impact on the efficiency of defecation. Many people experience a feeling of incompleteness when they finish defecating. This often happens because the wrong position causes the feces to not completely exit the rectum.
In a squatting position, the natural pressure from the stomach to the large intestine becomes more optimal, so that the feces are pushed out more perfectly. This provides a sense of relief and prevents the accumulation of feces that can cause toxins to accumulate in the body. Some experts even recommend light meditation or deep breathing during a bowel movement to help the body relax more, so that the bowel movement process becomes smoother.
Given the importance of this, education about the correct defecation position should start early, even from childhood. Children need to be taught that defecation is not just about 'going to the toilet', but also about how the body works and how we can help the body work naturally. In schools and in families, the habit of using a squat toilet or knowledge about using a footstool when on a sitting toilet can be part of basic health education.
Small Steps to Digestive Health
It is important to understand that the human body has natural mechanisms that work optimally when supported by habits that are in harmony with its physiology. The squatting position when defecating is not just a tradition or an old habit, but a form of respect for the natural design of our bodies. If you have been accustomed to using a sitting toilet, don't worry—just start with small steps such as adding a small stool in the bathroom to prop up your feet when sitting.
With these simple steps, you can help your digestive system work more efficiently, reduce the risk of disease, and maintain comfort in activities that are often taken for granted. So, start recognizing and practicing the correct bowel movement position because great health starts from small, correct habits.
Article written by dr. Seno Budi Santoso, Sp.B. Subsp. BD(K) (Surgeon Specialist - Digestive Surgery Subspecialist EMC Pulomas Hospital).