Here we don’t stray from the difficult topics, today we are looking into the link between autism and holding poop.

Poop problems

We have written a number of articles on toilet training on this site but this is a little bit different.

If you are experiencing your autistic child holding in poop you are not alone, it is more common than you’d think.

Here’s what may be behind the behaviour;

Sensory factors

Sensory sensitivities can impact autistic children in many ways.

One perhaps less talked about impact is how they can be associated with passing poop.

The sensation of having a bowel movement can be uncomfortable or overwhelming for some autistic kids.

They may find the feeling of stool passing through their body distressing.

This therefore may make a child choose to withhold it as a way to cope with this discomfort.

The problem with this being the case is that it has a snowballing effect. When a child (or anyone) holds in poop it will compress and become harder.

This will then likely lead to wider, more painful poops. The cycle worsens the anxiety and increases the fear of passing stool.

Routine

Routines can develop for autistic children in weird and wonderful ways.

They often find comfort in knowing what to expect from their environment and daily activities.

Changes in their routine, such as using the bathroom, can be disruptive and anxiety-inducing.

Some autistic children may withhold bowel movements as a way to maintain a sense of control and predictability in their lives.

An example of this may be with a child starting school. The concept of having a poop anywhere else than at home can be very distressing.

This can lead to a child holding in poops for longer than normal.

Communication struggles

Problems with communication are a hallmark of autism.

This leads to some children struggling to express their needs and discomfort verbally.

Instead, they may resort to non-verbal behaviours, this could include holding in poop.

Ultimately if a child can’t express their fears, discomfort or ask questions about poop, they may just clamp down and try to stop it.

Dietary factors

A lot of autistic children have a very limited diet. This can range from preferring a colour of food to just wanting one type of food, all the time.

These limitations to their diet can impact their toileting.

If for example a child is not getting enough fibre in their diet then this could lead to constipation.

Constipation can lead to painful or difficult to pass poops.

Linking into the sensory problems, this may well lead to them trying to avoid pooping all together.

Confused signalling

Autistic children can sometimes fail to recognise signals which the body is telling it.

These signals could include when it is time to pass poop or urine.

So with that in mind it may be the case that your child isn’t necessarily holding the poop in. It is more that they don’t realise that their body is telling them it is time to go.

What can parents do?

It is one thing knowing what may be behind the problem, it is another thing tackling it.

Any solution would need to be tailored to your child but here are some things to consider.

Laxatives

After consulting with a doctor you could consider giving your child laxatives.

Laxatives can be delivered to a point where they just loosen poop, which can be half the battle.

If the poop is loosened it will likely reduce the sensory discomfort which your child associates with the activity.

There is a wider point on the subject of laxatives in that you may have to go through a process called disimpaction.

This is when a child has built up a large amount of stool in their bowl and need a course of laxatives to clear.

Read more about disimpaction here.

Create a pooping routine

As mentioned above, a lot of autistic children thrive on routine. With that in mind you can try and make a routine out of pooping.

At a consistent time every day sit your child on the toilet in an attempt to make them go.

Be sure to reward them if they do manage to pass anything. If you stick to a constant routine this may reduce their anxiety as they can mentally prepare for what is to come.

Consider communication options

If struggles with communication are proving to be a factor, consider using picture cards or social stories.

These can help you explain to your child the processes of using the toilet. In turn they can also help your child explain when it is time to go.

Get professional advice

You may be well served to speak to a dietitian and a doctor, preferably those with experience of autism.

They can tailor plans specific to your child and together you can work towards resolving the issue.

Summary – Autism and holding poop

Understanding why your child with autism is holding poop is an essential step toward providing them with the necessary support and care.

By acknowledging their sensory sensitivities and respecting their need for routine, parents can help their child navigate this topic.

Remember that each autistic child is unique, and what works best for one may not work for another.

Patience and flexibility are key as you work together to find solutions that work for your family.

Good luck