Nowadays, sitting toilets are the common types since they are deemed more modern, yet there might still be some squatting toilets around. Most children in this generation may have been taught that sitting is the proper way when pooping in the toilet seat. However, new studies suggest that there is a better way to using the toilet.
The 90-degree position is commonly practiced wherein the feet are both on the ground and a 90 degree angle on the hips is seen from head to knees. This manner of sitting on the toilet, pressure is put upward on the rectum, the passage of intestines is sealed, and the muscle of the colon (puborectalis) is put in a tight and tensed position. This position makes it hard for the feces to properly pass through.
Also, sitting on the toilet too long puts pressure on the veins around the relaxing anus by filling it with blood. This position puts you at greater risk of developing swollen veins or hemorrhoids. Furthermore, passing a large stool in the sitting position may increase the likelihood of the occurrence of anal fissures.
According to recent studies, the proper position for defecating is the 35-degree position, or could be considered as squatting, wherein the knees are slightly higher than the hips, with both feet elevated perhaps by a footstool. In this position, the puborectalis muscle is relaxed and the rectum is straightened compared to the usual position of sitting or in the 90-degree position where muscle chokes the rectum.
This practice seems outdated and primitive, but even before the toilet was available, squatting is the natural way of defecating.
Colon disease, constipation, hemorrhoids, and similar ailments may be avoided in the natural squatting position. The colon fully relaxes in squatting which eliminates strain in defecating and peristalsis is quickened. In squatting, the puborectalis muscle widens the anorectal angle which allows for better and quicker passage of stools through anal canal.
One study says that an average time of 51 seconds, compared with 114 to 130 seconds when sitting, resulted for passing of bowel during squatting. Another study conducted on people with chronic anal fissures were found to have reduced symptoms when they mimic the squatting position in bowel movements.
Although squatting has benefits, the proper way of defecating is not the perfect solution for easy bowel movement. It does not cure conditions such as hemorrhoids. There are other factors, such as diet, exercise, fluid intake, and medications which shall be taken into account. Some people even have a condition called “slow transit constipation”, resulting for them to take a little bit longer in the toilet.
Moreover, cleaning the anus properly should be considered for proper hygiene, especially for those with ailments, such as anal fissures. Having sitz or hip baths may help not only in healing the anal fissure, but also in cleaning the anus, improving the blood flow, and relaxing the anal sphincter. Indeed, squatting is not the answer to everything, but it can make defecating more comfortable and less straining.
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