Understanding Bowel Habits and Stool Form Among Indian Adolescents: A Descriptive Study

Bowel habits and stool characteristics reflect adolescents' physical and mental health. Sociodemographics, environment, diet, and genetics influence defecation patterns. However, data on Indian adolescents' normal defecation patterns is limited.

A study was conducted on 232 adolescents (aged 10-19 years) from two schools after obtaining parental consent and children's assent. Data on bowel habits, stool forms, use of school latrines, socio-dietary habits, and demographic profiles was collected. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-squared test and unpaired t-test, with p<0.05 considered significant.

Of the 232 participants (mean age: 14.59±2.12 years; 50% male, 50% female), the most common stool frequency was 1-2 times/day (88.8%), followed by thrice a day (4.7%), <3 times/week (3.9%), and >3 times/day (2.6%). Bristol type IV stool was the most prevalent, followed by types III, II, V, I, VI, and VII. Common bowel issues included abdominal pain and bleeding during defecation. Girls reported significantly higher rates of abdominal pain (p=0.009) and incomplete evacuation (p=0.018) compared to boys.

This study provides insights into the normal bowel habits and defecation patterns of urban and semi-urban adolescents in Northern India. The findings can serve as a foundation for larger studies and aid in developing guidelines for managing constipation and bowel irregularities among Indian adolescents.