We’ve all been there—scrolling through social media, reading, or posting while on the toilet. What begins as a quick bathroom break often turns into a 15-minute session of relaxation, scrolling, and posting. But what seems harmless could be causing significant damage to your health.
Experts caution that prolonged toilet sitting can have serious consequences. According to Dr. Lai Xue, a colorectal surgeon at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, spending extended periods on the toilet can weaken pelvic muscles and increase the risk of hemorrhoids. “When patients come to me with complaints, one of the main areas we explore is excessive toilet time,” Dr. Xue notes.
Dr. Farah Monzur, assistant professor of medicine and director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Centre at Stony Brook Medicine, recommends limiting toilet time to just five to ten minutes. But what’s the real harm in staying longer? Let’s break it down with some simple science: prolonged sitting on the toilet strains your body’s blood circulation. Gravity pulls blood downward, making it harder for your circulatory system to return blood to your heart.
Problems from Prolonged Sitting
Unlike sitting on a couch, the toilet seat places pressure on the lower body, compressing the rectum and affecting blood flow. Dr. Xue explains that this creates a “one-way valve” where blood enters the veins but struggles to return, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse.
In addition to physical strain, excessive toilet time also affects pelvic floor muscles. These muscles work to help coordinate bowel movements, but sitting for too long can weaken them, making it harder to pass stool and potentially causing long-term issues.
Dr. Lance Uradomo, an interventional gastroenterologist at City of Hope Orange County, suggests keeping phones, books, and other distractions out of the toilet to prevent prolonged sitting. “Don’t go to the toilet with the mindset that you’ll be there for a long time,” Dr. Monzur advises. “Keep it as uninteresting as possible.”
Limit Your Time
If you struggle to relieve yourself, doctors recommend limiting toilet time to no more than 10 minutes. After that, try walking around to help stimulate your gut muscles. Staying hydrated and consuming fiber-rich foods like oats and beans can also improve digestion and prevent constipation, reducing the need for straining.
The National Academy of Medicine recommends drinking 2.7 to 3.7 liters of water per day. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also advises consuming 14 grams of fiber per 1,000 calories. These simple dietary changes can make bowel movements easier and less taxing on your body.
However, if you often find yourself sitting on the toilet for unusually long periods, it could indicate a deeper issue. Conditions like Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or even colorectal cancer may cause trouble with bowel movements. If symptoms persist, it’s essential to consult your doctor for further evaluation.
When to See a Doctor
If you’ve been dealing with constipation or prolonged toilet time for more than three weeks, it’s a sign that you may need professional medical advice. Consult your primary care physician, who may recommend a colorectal surgeon or gastroenterologist for a more detailed examination.
