Constipation is a common condition that affects people of all ages, including women. It can mean that you’re not passing stools regularly or you’re unable to completely empty your bowel. The severity of constipation varies from person to person, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Lack of fiber, fluids, and exercise: A lack of dietary fiber, fluids, and exercise can cause constipation. Fiber absorbs water and causes stools to be larger, softer, and easier to pass. Increasing fiber intake helps cure constipation in many people, but those with more severe constipation sometimes find that increasing fiber makes their constipation worse and leads to gassiness and discomfort.

• Medications: Constipation may be a side effect of some medicines, particularly opioid pain relievers. Other medicines that may cause constipation include some that treat pain, high blood pressure, seizures, depression, disorders of the nervous system, allergies, and others.

• Problems with pelvic floor muscles: Pelvic muscle weakness and other muscle function problems are a major contributor to constipation. The muscles in the pelvic floor help control bowel movements, and if they are weak or damaged, it can be difficult to pass stools.

• Medical conditions: Many medical conditions common for older adults, as well as medications, can cause constipation. Medical conditions that affect the muscles or nerves used for normal bowel movements, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or a spinal cord injury, can cause constipation. Conditions that affect hormones or metabolism, such as diabetes, can also lead to constipation. Other medical conditions that can lead to constipation include tumors or other blockages, pelvic floor disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.

• Changes in life or routine: Traveling can give some people problems because it disrupts normal diet and daily routines. Aging often affects regularity by reducing intestinal activity and muscle tone. Pregnancy may cause women to become constipated because of hormonal changes or because the enlarged uterus pushes on the intestine.

In general, constipation occurs when stool moves too slowly through the large intestine, also called the colon. If the stool moves slowly, the body absorbs too much water from the stool, and the stool can become hard, dry, and difficult to pass. If you are experiencing constipation, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.