Episode 16: Everybody Poops: A Guide to Constipation and Gut Health
Let’s be real: most people get squeamish talking about poop. But if your gut isn’t happy, you aren’t happy...which is why we’re breaking the taboo in this episode. Whether you’re dealing with "vacation constipation," incontinence, hemorrhoids, or just feel like your gut runs your life, this is a judgment-free conversation about getting things working again.
From the science behind Dr. Alex’s favorite Yankee swap gift (the Squatty Potty) to mastering a morning routine that supports regularity, this episode is packed with encouraging, practical tips to help you ditch the shame, fix your mechanics, and find lasting relief.
What You’ll Learn:
How small shifts in your bathroom routine can make pooping easier (step one: put your phone away!)
The cool science behind why your gut is called the “second brain” (and how the vagus nerve connects the two)
Why just adding fiber won’t help if the issue is muscle coordination (not slow movement)
Tune in if you’ve ever thought:
“Why do I get blocked up every time I travel?”
“Why am I constipated even though I eat healthy?”
“Why do all my tests say everything’s ‘normal’ when I feel so miserable?”
“Why am I going to the bathroom so often, but still don’t feel ‘done’?”
Helpful Resources:
Femeeze: A small handheld tool that supports the vaginal wall during a bowel movement, helping people with a rectocele empty more comfortably and completely.
Squatty Potty: A small footstool that raises your feet on the toilet to mimic a natural squat and make bowel movements easier.
Mind Your Gut: The Science-based, Whole-body Guide to Living Well with IBS by digestive health specialist + registered dietitian Kate Scarlata and GI psychologist Megan Riehl.
Find a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global Directory
Connect with us:
Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy
Website: rebeccaeudy.com
Instagram: @rebeccahowardeudy
Newsletter: Parents in Love Substack
Dr. Alexandra DiGrado
Website: bostonpelvicpt.com
Instagram: @bostonpelvicpt
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Under the Hood Podcast
Instagram: @underthehooddocs
Website: underthehoodpod.com