Székletürítés

Székletürítés, also known as defecation or a bowel movement, is the final act of digestion, by which organisms eliminate solid, semisolid, or liquid waste material from the digestive tract. This waste material, known as feces or stool, is composed of undigested food, bacteria, and metabolic waste products. The process is primarily controlled by the muscles of the rectum and anus, with voluntary and involuntary components.

The urge to defecate typically arises when stool enters the rectum, stretching its walls. This stimulates sensory receptors that send signals to the brain, creating the conscious sensation of needing to defecate. At this point, the internal anal sphincter, which is under involuntary control, relaxes. The external anal sphincter, under voluntary control, can be held closed to postpone defecation until a socially appropriate time and place.

When defecation occurs, the abdominal muscles contract (straining), and the pelvic floor muscles relax, increasing intra-abdominal pressure and facilitating the expulsion of feces from the anus. The frequency and consistency of stool can vary significantly among individuals and are influenced by diet, hydration, activity level, and underlying health conditions. Normal bowel habits are generally considered to be anywhere from three times a day to three times a week. Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea, constipation, or the presence of blood in the stool, can be indicative of various medical issues and may warrant medical attention.