Does using a squatty potty or footstool help with incomplete evacuation?

Using a proper toilet posture can make a real difference if you often feel like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels—a symptom known as the “sensation of incomplete evacuation.” Here’s what the research says about using a squatty potty or footstool, and what else you can do.

Why posture matters

When you sit on a standard toilet, your hips and knees form about a 90° angle. In that position:

• The rectum bends around the puborectalis muscle, creating a kink.
• You may need to strain more to pass stool.
• Complete emptying can be harder, fueling that lingering feeling of fullness.

Squatting (or simulating it with a footstool) straightens the recto-anal channel. Studies using dynamic MRI have shown that:

• Squatting opens the anorectal angle by up to 35° more than sitting.
• There’s less need to push or strain.
• Stool passes more smoothly, reducing leftover residue.

(For instance, a 2013 MRI study in the Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility demonstrated these mechanical advantages.)

Squatty potty and footstools: how they help

A squatty potty or simple footstool raises your feet about 6–12 inches off the floor, mimicking a squat. Benefits include:

• Better alignment of the rectum and anal canal
• Easier, more complete stool passage
• Reduced straining, which can ease hemorrhoids and pelvic floor tension
• Potential relief of that “I’m not done” feeling

Many users report faster, more comfortable bowel movements once they adopt this posture.

What research tells us

Several clinical observations and small trials suggest:

• People with functional constipation often feel “stuck” even after passing stool. Changing to a squatting‐style posture can lessen this sensation of incomplete evacuation.
• In one trial, participants using a footstool had a 20–30% decrease in straining and reported smoother bowel movements.
• Gastroenterology guidelines acknowledge that posture is a simple, low-risk way to support normal defecation mechanics.

Still, most studies are small and short-term. While posture change helps many, it’s not a cure-all.

When incomplete evacuation persists

If the sensation of incomplete evacuation continues despite a footstool, consider these possible causes:

• Functional defecation disorders. Also called dyssynergic defecation, this involves poor coordination between pelvic floor muscles and the rectum.
• Constipation-predominant IBS. Abdominal discomfort and altered bowel habits can include that unfinished feeling.
• Pelvic floor dysfunction. Weak or overactive muscles may block stool passage.
• Structural issues. Anal fissures, hemorrhoids, rectoceles or strictures can interfere with emptying.
• Neurological conditions. Diabetes, multiple sclerosis or spinal injuries may affect bowel control.
• Medications. Opioids, anticholinergics or iron supplements often slow transit and worsen that sensation.

Beyond posture: other strategies

While a squatty potty or footstool is a great first step, a full approach works best:

1. Optimize your diet

   • Aim for 20–35 grams of fiber daily (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
   • Drink 1.5–2 liters of water each day.

2. Establish a routine

   • Try to go within 5–10 minutes of feeling the urge.
   • Set aside 5–15 minutes after meals, when the gastrocolic reflex is strongest.

3. Exercise regularly

   • Moderate activity (walking, cycling, yoga) stimulates gut motility.

4. Pelvic floor training

   • Learn to relax and contract your pelvic floor properly.
   • Biofeedback with a trained therapist can be especially helpful for dyssynergic defecation.

5. Review medications

   • Talk with your doctor about changing or adjusting drugs that slow bowel movements.

6. Consider over-the-counter aids

   • Bulk-forming agents (psyllium) or osmotic laxatives (polyethylene glycol) can ease stool passage.
   • Use sparingly and under guidance to avoid dependency.

When to seek medical advice

If you experience any of the following, see a healthcare provider promptly:

• Blood in your stool or black, tarry stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
• A sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 2–4 weeks
• Signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance

For non-urgent symptoms—especially if you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort—you might try a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker. It can help you gauge whether you need further evaluation or self-care steps.

Remember: only a qualified professional can rule out serious conditions.

Putting it all together

A squatty potty or footstool is an easy, low-cost way to improve your toilet posture and may reduce the sensation of incomplete evacuation. But it’s one piece of the puzzle. Pair it with dietary changes, regular exercise, pelvic floor work and, if needed, gentle medications.

If your symptoms persist or you have any worrying signs, speak to a doctor as soon as possible. Early evaluation can prevent complications and get you on the path to feeling fully empty—and fully comfortable—again.