Blood after wiping, sore rectum

Hello, Anon. Thank you for posting.

Because digestion is a variable process, most people experience hard stools from time to time. Hard stools may also be a chronic problem for some people. You can have hard stools without being constipated. It's possible to have a daily bowel movement and still experience hard stools. You might be constipated if you have fewer than 3 bowel movements a week.

Have you changed your diet at all? Are you drinking enough water, eating enough fiber-rich foods and vegetables? Using a stool softer can also help short term. Stool softeners are over-the-counter products that serve to soften the stool and help to initiate a bowel movement. They reduce the amount of fluid that the intestines absorb, leaving more water in the stool.

The bleeding and soreness are likely caused by irritation (or a hemorrhoid) from passing the hard stools. But whenever blood is present it's best to see your doctor to be sure.

Helena