withholding

Using the anal muscles to deliberately stop a poo from leaving the body. In young children this behaviour normally starts because of previously passing a painful poo. Withholding can quickly lead to constipation because the longer the poo stays in the bowel, the harder, drier and bigger it gets, making it more and more painful to pass. It can be a difficult behaviour to break. Laxative treatment can help to keep the poo soft and easier to pass.