If you’re one of those people who lingers on the toilet, reading newspapers, scrolling on your phone or watching your favorite podcast, think again. Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time can lead to various health problems.
A 2020 survey by India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reported that nearly 35% of Indian adults spend more than 15 minutes on the toilet, and more than 60% use smartphones during bathroom visits, contributing to prolonged sitting. Prolonged sitting on the toilet can cause digestive problems, nerve compression and circulatory problems.
Toilet training time
Although it is common to associate toilet time with relaxation, sitting for long periods of time is uncomfortable and puts unnecessary stress on various parts of the body. According to Dr Rajeev Manek, Consultant General Laparoscopic, Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Road, the human body is not designed to sit for long periods of time.
“Prolonged sitting on the toilet can cause discomfort in the lower body, especially the rectum and pelvic floor. Over time, this can lead to a series of other health complications,” says Dr Manek.
He adds that the main problem with prolonged abstinence is stress on the rectal and pelvic muscles. “Constant pressure on these areas can make constipation worse, increase hemorrhoids, and increase the chance of rectal prolapse, which is when part of the rectum bulges outside the body.”
Effects on health
One of the most common health problems associated with prolonged constipation is the development of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area that can cause significant discomfort, itching, and even bleeding. When you sit on the toilet for long periods of time, you increase the pressure on these veins, which can cause them to become swollen and painful.
Dr. Deepak Ahire, a consultant gastro-enterologist, hepatologist, and endoscopist at Medicover Hospital, Navi Mumbai, says, “Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time increases the pressure on the rectal veins, which can lead to hemorrhoids. If this habit is repeated regularly, it worsens the existing hemorrhoids and can lead to serious complications such as anal fissures and rectal prolapse.”
Furthermore, prolonged sitting on the toilet can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor has muscles that support the bladder, bowels, and uterus, and these muscles are important in controlling bowel movements. Sitting for too long can weaken these muscles, which can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, which can lead to incontinence and difficulty controlling bowel movements. Dr. Ahire adds, “When you put too much pressure on the pelvic muscles by sitting on the toilet for long periods of time, you can weaken them, leading to pelvic floor dysfunction. This condition is not only uncomfortable but can also affect your quality of life.
Prolonged sitting problems
Spending too much time on the toilet can also harm your digestive health. Sitting for long periods of time can affect your bowels and rectum, making it more difficult for your body to initiate normal bowel movements. Dr. Ahire explains, “Staying on the toilet for a long time can put excessive pressure on the rectum and intestines. This pressure can affect normal bowel movement patterns and cause stress, making it difficult to have a natural and easy bowel movement.”
Although it may seem counterintuitive, this extended sitting can lead to constipation. When you sit on the toilet for too long, your body begins to adjust to having a bowel movement, which can delay your urge to go. Over time, this can lead to constipation. Additionally, straining to have a bowel movement can worsen constipation and contribute to the development of conditions such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and rectal prolapse. Dr. Manek advises, “Don’t put unnecessary pressure on your body. Listening to your body’s signals and making sure you don’t force a bowel movement can help prevent constipation and other digestive health problems.”
Another consequence of spending too much time on the toilet is nerve compression. When you sit for long periods of time, especially in slouched or awkward positions, you put extra pressure on the nerves in your lower body. This can cause tenderness, tingling, and discomfort. Dr. Manek explains, “Sitting for a long time
Blood circulation in the toilet and nerve function in the lower body can be negatively affected. It can also cause tingling, swelling and pain in the legs due to restricted blood flow.”
The posture you adopt while sitting can also aggravate these problems. Slouching or leaning forward puts more stress on your lower back and hips, which can contribute to nerve compression and further discomfort. Nerve compression may seem like a minor problem, but over time, it can cause chronic pain and mobility problems, especially in the legs and lower back. Dr. Ahire emphasizes, “The longer you sit, the more likely it is to block blood flow, leading to numbness and discomfort. It is essential not to delay toileting to maintain proper circulation and prevent nerve compression.”
Ideal bathroom routine
So, how long does it take to sit on the toilet? Health experts agree that you should aim to spend no more than 7 to 10 minutes on the toilet. Dr. Manek recommends keeping bathroom breaks short to avoid stressing your body. “Sitting for more than 10 minutes at a time puts unnecessary stress on your body. It’s important to listen to your body’s cues and get up when you’re done,” he advises.
Dr. Ahire also recommends limiting your time in the bathroom, especially if you use your phone during bathroom visits. Dr. Ahire says, “Avoid bringing your smartphone to the toilet. “It can cost you more time than necessary. A good rule of thumb is to not spend more than 5 to 10 minutes on the toilet. And if you experience discomfort or difficulty having a bowel movement, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor.”
By paying attention to how much time you spend on the toilet and adopting healthy bathroom habits, you can prevent these risks and improve your overall health. By making small changes to your bathroom routine, you can keep your digestive system, circulation, and nerves in optimal health.
Toilet problem
35% of Indian adults spend more than 15 minutes on the toilet 60% use their smartphones during bathroom visits
Prolonged sitting on the toilet can cause nerve compression and poor circulation, especially in the lower body (Indian Journal of Pain).