How Bad Is It to Hold in a Poop?

D-brief
By Lauren Sigfusson
Dec 20, 2017 6:26 PMMay 17, 2019 8:28 PM
constipation-hold-poop
Holding in your poop because you don't like pooping in public? Well, you aren't doing yourself any favors. (Credit: Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

You know the feeling when you have to poop, but there’s no toilet in reach or you’re too scared to stink up the stall at work? Then, instead of listening to Mother Nature, you end up holding in your poop?

Let’s face it, no matter how many times we hear “everybody poops,” it doesn’t make the endeavor any less awkward in public settings.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group