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
Type 3 and 4 are considered normal, whereas 1 and 2 indicate constipation25,38
Separate hard lumps, like nuts (hard to pass).
Sausage-shaped but lumpy.
Like a sausage but with cracks on its surface.
Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft.
Soft blobs with clear-cut edges (passed easily).
Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool.
Watery, no solid pieces. Entirely liquid.