Symptoms of the bowel pressing on the bladder

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Overview

The bladder and the colon, which is part of the bowel, are located close to each other in the body. This means that when one is experiencing issues, it may affect the other. 

For example, when you’re constipated, your colon is filled with stool. This extra weight may cause your colon to press onto your bladder and cause irregularity with peeing. This can lead to several symptoms, such as urinary frequency.

Several treatment methods can help reduce symptoms. For example, medications such as laxatives, fiber supplements, and regular exercise may help.

What does the bowel pressing on the bladder feel like?

When the bowels, such as the colon, are full of stool and can’t empty, the weight can press on the bladder. This can also occur if the bowels are inflamed.

This can lead to several symptoms, such as:

• a sudden urge to pee
• more frequent peeing
• feeling that the bladder doesn’t fully empty

Causes of the bowel pressing on the bladder

Different conditions that stop the stool from moving can cause the bowel to press on the bladder. This can result in swelling in the bowels. These conditions include:

• Constipation: Constipation occurs when you can’t pass stool, causing it to build up and become hard. The buildup puts pressure on the bladder, which is near the colon and the rectum. A 2021 study noted that constipation increased urinary urgency.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS refers to different symptoms affecting your digestive system, including diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. Some 2023 research suggests that IBS is associated with an overactive bladder and may cause increased urinary urgency.
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD): BBD happens when you experience problems peeing and pooping. This may be due to nerve or muscle dysfunction. 
• Other health issues: Some health conditions can lead to constipation, irregularities in the digestive system, and urinary issues. These conditions can include:
  • diabetes
  • neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and spinal cord tumors
  • hemorrhoids
  • pelvic floor dysfunction

Some medications can also lead to urinary issues and digestive symptoms such as constipation. These medications include:

• antipsychotic drugs, such as clozapine (Clozaril) and risperidone (Risperdal)
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Caldolor) and naproxen (Aleve)
• blood pressure medications, such as amlodipine (Norvasc), clonidine (Catapres), and propranolol (Inderal)
• mood stabilizers, such as lithium (Lithobid)
• antidepressants, such as escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), and paroxetine (Paxil)

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Treatment options

If your bowels are pressing on your bladder and causing urinary irregularity, you can treat constipation and reduce its symptoms with several methods, such as drinking more fluids and eating more fiber.

You can also treat constipation by taking medications such as:

• over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives and stool softeners, such as docusate (Colace)
• osmotic agents, such as polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX)
• stimulants, such as and bisacodyl (Correctol)

You can alleviate constipation with some at-home remedies and lifestyle measures, such as:

• increasing the amount of fluids and water you consume
• increasing your fiber intake
• eating prunes
• exercising regularly
• eating a balanced diet
• reducing stress where possible
• getting quality rest
• avoiding or limiting alcohol, if applicable

If IBS or another health condition is causing your bowel to put pressure on your bladder, talk with a healthcare professional about the best treatment routes for you. IBS treatment includes medications and lifestyle strategies such as diet and exercise.

When to speak with a doctor

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, consider speaking with a healthcare professional:

• increased urination frequency
• feeling as though you haven’t completely emptied your bladder
• bloating
• difficulty pooping
• having hard poop
• diarrhea
• lower frequency of bowel movements

Usually, a doctor will diagnose what’s causing your bowel to press against your bladder by analyzing your symptoms. But they may also use some of the following methods:

• performing a physical exam by touching your abdomen to feel if there’s a buildup of stool
• stool analysis
• blood test
• colonoscopy exam

A healthcare professional may also order a urine test to see whether you have a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can cause feelings of bloating and increase urination urge and frequency. 

Online care services, including Optum Perks Online Care, may make getting treatment easier. With these services, you can submit an online form answering a few questions about your symptoms, and a US-licensed healthcare professional will respond soon after to prescribe a treatment plan.

Summary

The bowels and the bladder are located close to each other in the body. This means when one is experiencing issues, it may affect the other.

For example, if your bowels are backed up or inflamed, they can put pressure on your bladder, increasing your urge to urinate and the frequency of peeing. 

Several options can relieve this symptom, including medications to help empty your bowels and lifestyle measures, such as increasing your water and fiber intake.

If you feel that your bowel is pressing on your bladder, talk with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the cause and most suitable treatment options.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on many prescription medications. Plus, you can now get them delivered to your home in as little as 3 days. Search for your medication here.