Autism & Constipation | Understanding Childhood Constipation, Toilet Learning & Bowel Health with Ann Costigan

Constipation is one of the most common childhood health conditions, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood, particularly for Autistic and neurodivergent children. Many families don't realise that constipation can develop gradually, present with subtle signs, and have a significant impact on a child's comfort, behaviour, bladder function and toilet learning. In this episode of **The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast**, Amanda McGuinness is joined by **Ann Costigan**, founder of **@pooandtheloo**, for the first of a two-part series exploring childhood bowel health. Ann is also the **Co-founder and Chair of Children's Continence Ireland**, bringing together healthcare professionals working in paediatric continence to improve education, collaboration and services for children and families. Together, Amanda and Ann unpack what constipation really looks like in children, why it is so frequently missed, and how recognising the early signs can prevent longer-term bowel and bladder difficulties. They also discuss why constipation and toilet learning are so closely connected, particularly for Autistic children and those with additional developmental needs. • What childhood constipation actually is and why it is often overlooked. • The subtle signs of constipation that many parents and professionals miss. • How constipation can affect bladder function, wetting, behaviour and emotional wellbeing. • Why constipation is so common during infancy, toilet learning and periods of transition. • The relationship between constipation and successful toilet learning. • How bowel habits, diet, hydration and routines influence bowel health. • Understanding macrogol medications, disimpaction and current evidence-based treatment approaches. • Why tracking bowel movements can provide valuable information for families and healthcare professionals. • Practical strategies to support bowel health while reducing stress for children and families. • When to seek support from your GP and other healthcare professionals. This is **Part One** of a two-part series with Ann Costigan. In **Part Two**, Amanda and Ann explore **poo withholding, toilet learning after previous unsuccessful attempts, and practical strategies for supporting children to develop confidence around using the toilet.** Helpful books, resources and supports for families.⁠https://tr.ee/saUPdQihi6⁠A practical checklist designed to help parents recognise the often subtle signs of constipation and identify when further assessment or support may be needed.⁠https://tr.ee/-Tgj5sK\_Nc⁠A helpful guide to support conversations with your GP, outlining the information that may assist in assessing constipation, stool withholding, toileting difficulties, and bowel health.⁠https://tr.ee/KeJhYU0E7T⁠A parent-friendly resource explaining macrogol medications, how they work, and their role in treating childhood constipation.⁠https://tr.ee/9oZSlhZdSe⁠Information to help parents understand the disimpaction process, why it may be needed, and what to expect during treatment.⁠https://tr.ee/fQ\_k5qvGr0⁠A beautifully illustrated children's book that can help normalise conversations about poo, reduce anxiety around toileting, and support children experiencing stool withholding or fear of poo.⁠https://www.amazon.ie/princess-who-wa...Kids Physiotherapy Waterford⁠https://kidsphysiotherapywaterford.ie/⁠Leah Bryans Physiotherapy⁠https://leahbryansphysiotherapy.com/⁠Anatomy Physiotherapy⁠https://anatomyphysiotherapy.ie/⁠National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)Constipation in Children and Young People: Diagnosis and Management (CG99)⁠https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg99⁠🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.littlepuddins.ie⁠