Unpleasantries Of Bowel Motions

[Fluppy]

Now, this is a slightly embarrassing topic, so I am sorry if it offends anyone…

I know we all go on about the squirts and the things to do to avoid that – purification tablets etc, but just wondering if anyone has experienced the opposite (ie – constipation) whilst trekking Kokoda.

Both my friend (who is not trekking with me) and I suffer from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and stomach cramps, constipation and the squirts are all a part of it

So…having heard about the uh…'unique' smell of the toilets and really not wanting to do a Sudoku puzzle to pass the time in there (ie – I want to be in and out as quick as possible – but this is not always 'doable' ), I was wondering what sort of things I could do to I don't know…deal with this situation?

Should I just dig my own hole and sit there for as long as it takes? Are you allowed to do this? How big/deep should it be and how far away from the campsite? Don't want to get lost

Lately it hasn't been of concern. However, my partner (who is trekking with me) has a similar problem in that his bowel motions won't 'work' when he is camping. 3 or 4 days is usually fine and he goes as soon as we get home, but this is a 9-day trek. I just don't think it's possible for someone to hold-on that long (not without some major discomfort if not damage to their system)…

[Mrs Moo]

Hi fluppy
I notice no one has come in to advise you on this topic!

Firstly, I don't know too much about IBS, but I had worried a bit about constipation on the trek. However, I had no trouble. Maybe it was the muesli we had for brekky every day, or even the squatting position as opposed to sitting on a seat, but I was regular. I think walking all day probably helps as well.

I really didn't think the toilets were so bad as to require you to dig a separate one for yourself. Probably not a good idea near the campsites. You could probably deal with the pong for as long as it takes in the loos provided.

If you have an urgent need along the track. just ask your porter to wait for you and duck into the scrub. He will help you catch up to the main group afterwards.

Enjoy your trek and stop worrying.
Moo

[Author]

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