bristol stool form scale

Constipation isn’t just about frequency. In fact, many doctors consider factors such as the shape, texture and consistency of stools to be the best way to assess bowel functionality. Stools can easily be determined/categorized using a simple scale:²²

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Type 3 and 4 are considered normal, where as 1 and 2 indicate constipation^25,38

Type 1

Separate hard lumps, like nuts (hard to pass).

Type 2

Sausage-shaped but lumpy.

Type 3

Like a sausage but with cracks on its surface

Type 4

Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft

Type 5

Soft blobs wsith clear-cut edges (passed easily).

Type 6

Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool.

Type 7

Watery, no solid pieces. Entirely liquid.