<p>Constipation means that a person has three or fewer <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/bowelmovement.html">bowel movements</a> in a week. The stool can be hard and dry. Sometimes it is painful to pass. At one time or another, almost everyone gets constipated. In most cases, it lasts a short time and is not serious. </p> <p>There are many things you can do to prevent constipation. They include <ul> <li> Eating more fruits, vegetables and grains, which are high in <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/dietaryfiber.html">fiber</a></li> <li> Drinking plenty of water and other liquids</li> <li> Getting enough exercise</li> <li> Taking time to have a bowel movement when you need to</li> <li> Using laxatives only if your doctor says you should</li> <li> Asking your doctor if medicines you take may cause constipation</li> </ul> </p> <p>It's not important that you have a bowel movement every day. If your bowel habits change, however, check with your doctor. </p> <p class="">NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases</p>