Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Sharp Stabbing Pain Prior To Defecation?
Question: Hi, this is an embarrassing problem but sometimes right before I have to go #2 I get this sudden, sharp stabbing pain that runs from my anus to my belly. It only lasts about 20 seconds, then I am fine, usually long before I reach the bathroom. It hurts so much sometimes that it's hard to walk, a few days ago it happened while I was going up the stairs and all I could do was kneel on the stairs it hurt so much. What could be causing this, and is it something I should have checked?
Brief Answer:
It is normal defecation reflex.
Detailed Answer:
Dr. Hanif warmly Welcomes you!
Thanks for consulting at my virtual clinic. I have carefully worked through your case, and I can realize your health worries. Being your physician, I assure you not to worry as I will take care all of your medical concerns.
Nothing is to be embarrassed. Almost everyone has got this defecation reflex. If you are not having any other related gastrointestinal symptoms, it is all normal. No issues of medical concerns with your symptoms.
These are normal reflex contractions of the intestinal tract. Usually it happens when you finish eating a meal and your rectum was already filled out with feces. It is called gastrocolic reflex. As the food touches the stomach, it creates a strong signal that reaches and starts contracting the colon and rectum.
As we have micturition reflex for passing out the urine, In the same way we have defecation reflex for passing out the feces or stools. Mass movements of the intestines occur in it for the fecal matter to be pushed towards the anus.
Hope I answered all of your medical concerns. If you have more queries feel free to contact me. If satisfied and agreed, please give a five Star rating, and don't forget to Close this discussion. Have a wonderful time ahead.
Best Regards!
DR. XXXXXXX M. HANIF
USA
It is normal defecation reflex.
Detailed Answer:
Dr. Hanif warmly Welcomes you!
Thanks for consulting at my virtual clinic. I have carefully worked through your case, and I can realize your health worries. Being your physician, I assure you not to worry as I will take care all of your medical concerns.
Nothing is to be embarrassed. Almost everyone has got this defecation reflex. If you are not having any other related gastrointestinal symptoms, it is all normal. No issues of medical concerns with your symptoms.
These are normal reflex contractions of the intestinal tract. Usually it happens when you finish eating a meal and your rectum was already filled out with feces. It is called gastrocolic reflex. As the food touches the stomach, it creates a strong signal that reaches and starts contracting the colon and rectum.
As we have micturition reflex for passing out the urine, In the same way we have defecation reflex for passing out the feces or stools. Mass movements of the intestines occur in it for the fecal matter to be pushed towards the anus.
Hope I answered all of your medical concerns. If you have more queries feel free to contact me. If satisfied and agreed, please give a five Star rating, and don't forget to Close this discussion. Have a wonderful time ahead.
Best Regards!
DR. XXXXXXX M. HANIF
USA
Note: Revert back with your health reports to get further guidance on your gastric problems. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
