6 natural stool softeners: Including those safe for pregnancy and children. Find out how to treat constipation naturally and safely here.

After researching and testing various stool softeners, we have identified the top products that are safe, effective, and easy to use for daily use.

I have been taking one stool softener daily (100 mg of docusate sodium) with my vitamins. This routine seems to help. Is it safe to do this every day, or should I reduce this to a few days a week?

Castor oil is a natural laxative that can help relieve occasional constipation. Learn more about how it works, how to use it, ...

Stool softeners are a type of laxative. They work by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and more comfortable to pass. Learn more.

Stool softeners are generally considered safe during pregnancy. Pregnancy constipation, defined as having fewer than three bowel movements a week, can be uncomfortable.

A pharmacist explained why your stool softener doesn’t seem to actually help when you’re constipated — and how to repurpose the meds in an unexpectedly delightful way.

When you're backed up, you need to know some easy ways to make yourself poop. Here, experts share what to eat, drink and do ...

Despite potential side effects from laxatives and stool softeners, some people have made the switch after they stopped taking weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy due to extreme side effects.

There are four ways that laxatives work: Stool softeners add moisture to your stool, so it isn’t as hard Osmotic laxatives increase water in your intestines, so that hard stool passes easier ...

Medically reviewed by Robert Burakoff, MD Home remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and other self-care methods often deliver constipation relief. Exercise and improved hydration can ...