Constipation is a common problem that affects people of all ages – but that doesn’t mean you have to live with it. At The The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we understand how uncomfortable and frustrating constipation can be. Whether it’s a new issue or something you’ve been dealing with for years, our specialists can help you get to the root of the problem and find relief.
What is constipation?
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or having hard, dry, or difficult-to-pass bowel movements. You might also feel bloated, sluggish, or as though you haven’t fully emptied your bowels. For some people, constipation comes and goes. For others, it’s a long-term issue that affects daily life.
You don’t have to have a bowel movement every day to be healthy – but if your routine changes and you’re going fewer than three times a week, it could be a sign of constipation.
Common causes of constipation
There are many reasons why constipation can develop. These include:
- Low-fibre diet – not eating enough fruit, vegetables, or wholegrains
- Dehydration – not drinking enough fluids can make stools dry and hard
- Lack of exercise – physical activity helps stimulate bowel movements
- Ignoring the urge – regularly delaying trips to the toilet can worsen symptoms
- Medications – including certain painkillers, antidepressants, and iron supplements
- Hormonal changes – such as during pregnancy or the menopause
- Underlying conditions – like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), underactive thyroid, or bowel narrowing
When to see a bowel specialist
Constipation is very common, but if it becomes frequent, painful, or is accompanied by other worrying symptoms, it’s time to speak to a specialist.
See a consultant if you experience:
- Ongoing constipation that doesn’t improve with diet or lifestyle changes
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Blood in or around the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- A feeling of incomplete emptying after going to the toilet
- New bowel symptoms if you’re over 50
It’s especially important to get checked if there’s a family history of bowel conditions such as bowel cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
How we investigate constipation
At The Midlands Bowel Clinic, we’ll start with a detailed consultation to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, and any existing medical conditions. We may recommend:
- Blood tests to check for thyroid issues, coeliac disease or signs of inflammation
- Stool tests to rule out infection or assess bowel function
- Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy to examine the bowel lining
- Imaging such as MRI or CT scans if needed
- Specialised tests to assess how your bowel moves (e.g. transit studies or anorectal physiology)
Treatment options
Once we’ve identified the cause of your constipation, we can develop a personalised treatment plan. This may include:
- Dietary advice – increasing fibre intake and improving hydration
- Medication – such as gentle laxatives, stool softeners or newer treatments that help bowel movement
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy – if your symptoms are linked to muscle control or function
- Management of underlying conditions – like IBS, thyroid problems, or structural issues
Our goal is to help you regain regular, comfortable bowel movements and improve your quality of life.
Why choose The Midlands Bowel Clinic?
Our experienced team of bowel specialists offers expert diagnosis, tailored treatment, and compassionate care. With access to advanced investigations and minimal wait times, we can help you get answers and find relief as quickly as possible.
Contact us
If you’re struggling with constipation, don’t put off getting help. Contact The Midlands Bowel Clinic today to arrange a consultation with one of our specialists. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
