Are Women More Likely to Experience Constipation Than Men?

Source: Dr. Andrew Octovianus Wijaya
Editor: Danastry Intan

Constipation can affect anyone, but women are generally more prone to experiencing it than men. This is not only due to differences in diet and hydration but also because of biological and hormonal factors. Women are more likely to experience constipation due to several reasons, including differences in pelvic and intestinal anatomy, the effects of the hormones progesterone and estrogen, pregnancy and childbirth, and the habit of delaying bowel movements. (1)

In everyday life, this is a common issue for many women with busy schedules. Between work, household responsibilities, frequent meetings, long commutes, and avoiding public restrooms because they feel uncomfortable, it can be easy to postpone going to the bathroom. Small habits such as not drinking enough water, being physically inactive, and consuming too little fiber can gradually make digestion less regular. (1)

One natural way to promote regular bowel movements is by improving your daily habits. Drinking enough water, exercising regularly, avoiding the habit of holding in bowel movements, managing stress, eating prebiotic and probiotic foods, and increasing your intake of fiber-rich foods can all help relieve hard stools and constipation. (2)

Fiber is not only found in fruits and vegetables but can also come from healthier snack options. This is important because many people still associate snacking with foods that are high in sugar, high in fat, or low in nutritional value. In reality, choosing the right snacks can make them part of a more balanced and nutritious diet.

Specific Data Sources:

1. Bharucha, A. E., & Wald, A. (2019). Chronic Constipation. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 94(11), 2340-2357.
2. Ren, Y. P., Chan, W. L., Chuah, K. H., Kim, Y. S., Nakajima, A., Mahadeva, S., Lee, Y. Y., Chua, A. S. B., Bai, T., Syam, A. F., Chen, C.-L., Lu, C.-L., Rahman, M. M., Patcharatrakul, T., Tan, V. P. Y., Hang, D. V., Hou, X., Xiao, Y., Wu, J., Ghoshal, U. C., Suzuki, H., Gonlachanvit, S., & Siah, K. T. H. (2026). Bali chronic constipation roundtable report: Chronic constipation management in Asia. Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, 32(1), 109–128.
3. Yavabali.com
4. Fatsecret.com