Table 3.

Rome IV criteria for functional constipation²⁷.

The following criteria should be present for at least 3 months with symptom onset at least 6 months prior to diagnosis

1. Presence of ≥ 2 of the following symptoms:

Lumpy or hard stools (Bristol stool form scale 1–2) in > 25% of defecations

Straining during > 25% of defecations

Sensation of incomplete evacuation for > 25% of defecations

Sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage for > 25% of defecations

Manual maneuvers for to facilitate > 25% of defecations (digital manipulations, pelvic floor support)

< 3 spontaneous bowel movements per week

2. Loose stools rarely present without the use of laxatives

3. Insufficient criteria for irritable bowel syndrome

Content of the table is adapted from: Palsson et al.²⁷.