- During the previous year, all patients must have experienced or reported at least two of the following symptoms for at least three months and with 25% of bowel movements (when not taking laxatives) (22):1) stool frequency of less than three/week, 2) passage of hard stools, 3) excessive straining, 4) a feeling of incomplete evacuation, 5)sensation of anorectal obstruction or blockage and 6) use of manual maneuvers to facilitate defecations (e.g., digital evacuation).