why does it hurt to pass stool?

Pain with bowel movements is often caused by the stool simply becoming too hard as a result of constipation.  Over-the-counter products typically called stool softeners will correct this problem and your pain should quickly resolve.  However, pain that occurs with soft stools should never be considered normal.  The most common reason for having pain associated with bowel movements that are soft would-be high tone pelvic floor dysfunction.  This is a problem where muscles are very tight and do not relax properly while attempting to pass stool.  Patients will often report a long history of constipation that often starts in childhood.  This problem requires a simple pelvic examination to evaluate your pelvic floor and to rule out other causes for this symptom.  If muscles are hypertonic patients typically have a resolution of their symptoms by working with a physical therapist trained in the management of the defecatory dysfunction.