Sitting on the toilet is one of the most mundane everyday actions. However, staying there too long might not be trivial. Several doctors warn of the risks of this seemingly harmless habit, whether it involves circulation problems, hemorrhoids or even perineal disorders. But then, how long do you really have to spend on the throne?
The risks of staying in the toilet too long
Staying in the toilet for a few minutes to relieve yourself is perfectly normal. But staying there for too long, phone in hand or magazine on your lap, can quickly pose a problem. According to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of True Medical, “Sitting on the toilet after finishing a bowel movement could increase the risk of hemorrhoids and other health problems due to pressure on the hemorrhoidal veins“. This prolonged pressure promotes inflammation and even persistent pain.
An observation shared by Ellie Chen, gastroenterologist at the University of California, who specifies in SELF magazine: “Sitting on the toilet for a long time, especially while straining, is probably the main cause of hemorrhoids.“. These repeated efforts can ultimately lead to excessive thrusting. Dr. Priyanka Singh, of Mount Sinai in New York, also warns of another possible disorder, rectal prolapse, when part of the rectum slides down and protrudes beyond the anus. A situation favored by prolonged sitting and repeated efforts.
A position harmful to the perineum
The consequences do not only concern the rectum. Dr Pauline Guillouche, gastroenterologist known on the networks as pauline.hépato, recalled in January 2024: “Indeed, the long position on the toilet is not good for the perineum. You should avoid being in this position for too long.“. For her, good posture consists of slightly elevating the legs using a small step stool. This allows the knees to be placed above the hips, a position that promotes natural and effortless evacuation. She also recommends going to the stool only when the urge arises, and not out of habit.
The ideal time not to exceed
There remains a question that many ask: how long is it reasonable to spend in the toilet? Dr. Kierzek believes that “The amount of time spent in the toilet can vary greatly from person to person, but in general, the average time spent in the toilet is around 2 to 3 minutes for women and less than 2 minutes for men“.”However, studies show that some people spend an average of 45 minutes per day in the bathroom, which can include time spent reading or browsing the internet!“. An observation which shows to what extent screens have transformed this daily routine.
Doctors agree that after five minutes, the risk of exerting excessive pressure becomes real. A simple piece of advice helps avoid inconvenience: “If you sit down and cannot have a bowel movement within this time, get up and try again later“. And if, despite everything, prolonged passages or difficulties persist, it is better to consult. As Dr. Kierzek reminds us: “Finally, if you have to return to the toilet frequently and/or you have urges to push without stool or any other abnormality, consult!“
How to spend less time on the throne?
In the meantime, to shorten the time spent on the throne, specialists advise changing a few habits: going to the toilet only when the urge is there, avoiding the smartphone which unnecessarily prolongs the session, and treating constipation problems by adopting a diet richer in fiber, drinking more water and moving more. A simple discipline which is often enough to restore the appropriate duration of going to the toilet.