The association between constipation and quality of life, health related quality of life and health status in adults: a systematic review protocol.

Constipation is often an overlooked problem in health care. 1 Four to 28% of the general population is estimated to be constipated 2,3 and up to 50% develop constipation after a surgical procedure. 4 In patients with complex disorders, up to 70% suffer from constipation. 4 Constipation is about twice more common in women than in men. 3 However reasons like deterioration of pelvic floor muscles following childbirth do not result in constipation 5 and female hormones do not contribute to constipation, considering the prevalence of constipation in older women. 6