While most instances of constipation aren’t serious, occasionally, cases of infrequent or difficult bowel movements should be evaluated by a doctor.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this list of warning signs that you should talk to your doctor about constipation:

– You’re constipated for the first time or it occurs for you very infrequently.
– You’ve been treating constipation at home with more fiber, fluids and exercise for at least three weeks, but have no improvement.
– You have abdominal pain.
– You have bloody stools.
– You have unexplained weight loss.