It can hurt when pooping for several common reasons including anal fissures (small tears in the skin around the anus), hemorrhoids (swollen veins near the anus), constipation (hard or dry stool that is painful to pass), proctitis (inflammation of the rectum lining), inflammatory bowel disease, and other conditions. Anal fissures cause sharp pain and sometimes bleeding during bowel movements, often from passing hard stool or constipation. Hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding as well. Constipation leads to hard stools that are difficult and painful to pass, while inflammation or infections in the rectal area can also cause pain. Treatment typically involves softening stool with fiber and fluids, using sitz baths, and sometimes medication or medical procedures if needed. Painful bowel movements should be evaluated by a doctor especially if severe, persistent, or accompanied by bleeding.
