Doctors are warning against prolonged toilet sitting, advising that spending more than 10 minutes on the toilet could have health risks. The position can increase pressure on the veins in the rectum, potentially leading to hemorrhoids, a common condition characterized by swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum and anus.
When sitting for long periods, the body remains in a squatting position, which can cause strain on the pelvic floor muscles and slow down blood circulation, making it harder to fully evacuate the bowels. Experts recommend not forcing bowel movements and listening to your body’s signals to avoid overexertion.
According to the American Journal of Gastroenterology, prolonged toilet sitting can exacerbate conditions like constipation and lead to long-term issues such as rectal prolapse or pelvic floor dysfunction. Medical professionals suggest taking breaks if bowel movements are taking longer than usual and avoiding straining.
For optimal bowel health, it’s recommended to spend no more than 10 minutes on the toilet at a time and seek medical advice if constipation becomes a frequent issue.
