Loo & Behold

If you are one of those who sits on the toilet for long, reading newspapers, scrolling through your phone or catching up on your favourite podcast, think again. According to Dr Rajiv Manek, a Consultant General Laparoscopic, Metabolic, and Bariatric Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Road, the human body is not designed for extended sitting “Sitting for long periods on the toilet can cause discomfort in the lower body, particularly around the rectum and pelvic floor. If this habit is repeated regularly, it can worsen existing haemorrhoids and lead to more serious complications like anal fissures and rectal prolapse.” Moreover, prolonged sitting on the toilet can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction. Dr. Ahire adds, “When you put too much pressure on the pelvic muscles by sitting on the toilet for extended periods, you can weaken them, leading to pelvic floor dysfunction. Listening to your body’s cues and ensuring you don’t force bowel movements can help prevent constipation and other digestive health problems.” Another consequence of spending too much time on the toilet is nerve compression.