Constipation

Constipation means having fewer than 3 bowel movements a week, or stools that are hard, dry, and painful to pass. It is one of the most common causes of belly pain in both children and adults. Most cases improve with simple changes.

What Is It

Constipation happens when stool moves too slowly through the colon and too much water is absorbed. Common causes include low fiber, not drinking enough, inactivity, travel, holding it in, and some medicines. In children, it often starts during potty training or when they avoid school bathrooms.

Symptoms

Fewer than 3 bowel movements a week
Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
Straining or pain when passing stool
Bloating and belly cramps
A feeling that you did not fully empty
In kids, stool accidents in the underwear

Not sure it’s constipation? Constipation is the most common cause of stomach pain in children. Belly pain that is steady and getting worse, especially on the lower right, is not constipation. Read more about abdominal pain.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines your belly, and an X-ray may help show how much stool is backed up. Treatment depends on age and may include over the counter or prescription options. Children often benefit from a bathroom routine.

At home:

Drink more water throughout the day
Eat more fiber from fruit, vegetables, beans, and whole grains
Walk or move after meals
Sit on the toilet for 5 to 10 minutes after meals, with your feet on a small stool

Most constipation improves within a few days of these changes.

When to Get Care for Constipation

Watch at Home

Mild constipation for a few days
Improving with more water, fiber, and movement
Eating and drinking normally

Come to Urgent Care Today

No bowel movement for more than 3 to 4 days with cramping
Pain or bleeding when passing hard stool
A child with stool accidents or holding in stool
Home remedies not working after a week

Go to the Emergency Department

Severe belly pain with a swollen, hard belly
Vomiting and not passing gas or stool
A large amount of blood in the stool, or black stool
Constipation with fever and worsening pain

FAQ

What helps constipation fast?

Drinking more water, eating high fiber foods like prunes or pears, and walking can help constipation fast. If that does not work within a day or two, an over the counter laxative may help, but check with a provider first for children.

How long is too long without a bowel movement?

Going more than 3 days without a bowel movement is considered constipation for most adults. Seek care if it lasts longer with cramping, bloating, or vomiting.

What causes constipation in kids?

Constipation in kids is usually caused by holding in stool, low fiber, not drinking enough, or changes like potty training and starting school. Painful stools can start a cycle of holding it in.

Can constipation cause stomach pain?

Yes, constipation is one of the most common causes of stomach pain, especially in children. The pain is usually crampy and in the lower belly, and it eases after a bowel movement.

When is constipation an emergency?

Constipation is an emergency when it comes with severe belly pain, a swollen hard belly, vomiting, or not being able to pass gas. These can be signs of a bowel blockage.

Can urgent care treat constipation?

Yes, urgent care can treat constipation. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine adults and children and discuss treatment. No appointment or referral is needed.

Last reviewed October 2026