What is stool retention?

Common problem: Stool retention is a common problem of childhood that may become evident as soon as a child develops some control of the emptying process. A stool mass presents to the emptying chamber releasing a message to the brain that may allow release of the material or retain it.

HOLD ON!!: Stool retention occurs when someone doesn't want to poop and holds it in. It may be painful to poop, it may be interupting play or other fun things, or it may be the child doesn't want to raise hand at school to ask to go or doesn't like public restrooms. If happpens recurrently, can cause intestine to enlarge and lose the sensation that it needs to empty - then stool accidents begin to happen.