There are seven types of stools (feces) according to the Bristol Stool Chart. The Bristol Stool Chart or Bristol Stool Scale is a medical aid designed to classify feces into seven groups. Click the graphic to the left to enlarge the chart for easier viewing.

What should my stools look like?

The type of stool or feces depends on the time it spends in the colon. After you pass feces, what you see in the toilet bowl is basically the result of your diet, fluids, medications and lifestyle. You can use the Bristol Stool Chart to check what your stools are telling you.

The Bristol Stool Chart shows seven categories of stool. Every person will have different bowel habits, but the important thing is that your stools are soft and easy to pass – like types 3 and 4 below.

• Type 1–2 indicate constipation
• Type 3–4 are ideal stools as they are easier to pass, and
• Type 5–7 may indicate diarrhea and urgency.