Constipation is most often defined as having a bowel movement less than 3 times per week. It is often associated with hard stools or problems passing stools. You may have pain while passing stools or may be unable to have a bowel movement after straining or pushing.

Normal bowel movements are different for each person. Some people do not have a bowel movement every day.  When you do not have frequent bowel movements, or it takes a lot of effort to pass stool, you have constipation.