What is Bristol Stool Type 1?

Separate hard lumps, like nuts. Very difficult to pass. Indicates severe constipation.

What is Bristol Stool Type 2?

Sausage-shaped but lumpy. Indicates mild constipation.

What is Bristol Stool Type 3?

Like a sausage but with cracks on its surface. Normal to slightly firm.

What is Bristol Stool Type 4?

Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft. This is the ideal stool.

What is Bristol Stool Type 5?

Soft blobs with clear-cut edges, passed easily. Slightly loose but normal.

What is Bristol Stool Type 6?

Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool. Indicates mild diarrhoea.

What is Bristol Stool Type 7?

Watery, no solid pieces, entirely liquid. Indicates severe diarrhoea.

Evidence-based guide

Bristol Stool Scale — Complete Guide

The Bristol Stool Scale is a clinical tool developed at the University of Bristol to classify stool consistency into 7 types. Understanding your type helps identify digestive patterns and communicate with your doctor.

Types 1–2: Constipation Types 3–4: Ideal Types 5–7: Diarrhoea

Tap any type to expand details, transit time, and what to do.

Bristol Scale and IBS

IBS-D

Diarrhoea-predominant

Types 5–7

Frequent loose or watery stools. Often triggered by stress, high-FODMAP foods, or caffeine.

IBS-C

Constipation-predominant

Types 1–2

Hard, infrequent stools. Often associated with bloating and abdominal discomfort.

IBS-M

Mixed

Types 1–2 and 5–7

Alternating between constipation and diarrhoea. The most common IBS subtype.

Medical disclaimer

This guide is for educational purposes only. The Bristol Stool Scale is a clinical reference tool — it does not replace professional medical advice. If you experience persistent changes in bowel habits, blood in stools, unexplained weight loss, or severe pain, consult a doctor immediately.

Track your Bristol type every day

IBSTrack makes it easy to log your stool type in seconds, spot patterns over time, and share data with your doctor.