While the phrasing suggests a specific location on the toilet seat, the underlying question is better understood as: How should you position your body while sitting on the toilet for optimal bowel movements?
The recommended posture isn't about the exact spot on the seat, but rather the angle of your body. Here's why and how:
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The 35-Degree Angle: Instead of sitting upright at a 90-degree angle, leaning forward to approximately a 35-degree angle is considered more natural and effective.
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The Puborectalis Muscle: The puborectalis muscle plays a crucial role in continence. When you're standing or sitting upright, this muscle constricts the rectum, making elimination more difficult.
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Relaxation and Widening: Leaning forward helps to relax the puborectalis muscle. This relaxation widens the anorectal angle, creating a straighter path for stool to pass through.
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Benefits of Proper Posture:
- Easier Bowel Movements: Reduced straining and discomfort.
- Prevention of Hemorrhoids: Less pressure on the rectum and anus.
- Reduced Risk of Constipation: Facilitating complete evacuation.
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How to Achieve the 35-Degree Angle:
- Use a Squatty Potty: This device elevates your feet, naturally putting you in a more squat-like position, approximating the desired angle.
- DIY Solution: If you don't have a Squatty Potty, use a small stool or stack of books to elevate your feet while sitting.
- Lean Forward: Even without elevating your feet, leaning forward from the hips can help.
Therefore, the "correct" way to sit on the toilet isn't about where on the seat, but adopting a posture that facilitates easier bowel movements by relaxing the puborectalis muscle and straightening the anorectal angle. This is best achieved by leaning forward, ideally while elevating your feet.
