Toileting Techniques 

 

If you have been having difficulty going to the bathroom, these techniques can be helpful.

 

Find a comfortable toileting position to better empty your bowel and bladder. 

  • Support your feet on a stool so that your knees are higher than your hips.
  • Keep your feet flat and knees apart. Relax your legs; try to avoid pushing through your toes. 
  • Find the position that is most comfortable for you.
    • Lean forward with elbows resting on knees (picture A)

OR

    • Lean back (picture B)

*Use position B if you have post-surgical hip precautions

  
 (A) (B)

 

Don’t rush or push to empty. 

  • Take deep breaths to relax. 
  • Pushing or straining should not be necessary to empty the bladder or bowels. Relax on the toilet to allow the muscles to open and colon to contract. 

 

Making certain sounds can help you to empty. (Ssssss, Shhhhh, Ooooooo, Grrrrrr, or blowing through pursed lips) 

 

Other ways to treat constipation 

  • Increase fiber and fluid intake. 
  • Increase physical activity: move around in bed or in the chair rather than sitting/lying still. 
  • Talk to your health care team about creating a toileting schedule. 
  • Talk with your providers about the use of medication such as laxatives.