Mucus in the stool is a very common symptom of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While some mucus is normal, IBS mucus can be excessive and may be visible in the stool.

Even though producing large amounts of mucus is common in people with IBS, scant research has been done about it. No one can say for sure why the mucus is there or what it means about your digestive system.

This article looks at possible causes of mucus in the stool and what we know about its role in IBS.

What Is Mucus?

Mucus is a fluid produced by mucous membranes throughout your body. It moistens and protects the lining of many body parts systems. This includes:

  • The digestive tract
  • Respiratory organs
  • Reproductive organs
  • The urinary tract

Mucus can be thin or thick. It may be clear, green, yellow, or white. Mucus in the stool is usually white.

Causes of Mucus in Stool

Several digestive disorders besides IBS are associated with mucus in the stool:

  • Celiac disease
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Lactose intolerance
  • Ulcerative colitis

Mucus and IBS

Mucus in the stool is generally associated with inflammation. But studies on the role of inflammation in IBS don’t even mention mucus.

Sudden onset of mucus in the stool can be a sign of a bacterial infection. Other symptoms to watch for are:

A couple of small studies have talked about mucus in IBS. In one, just over half of people surveyed with IBS reported mucus in their stools.

Another small study suggested men with IBS were more likely than women to report mucus in their stools.

Clearly, more work needs to be done. It’s possible that investigating mucus might lead to a better understanding of inflammation’s role in the conditions.

Summary

Mucus lines many organs in your body. It’s there to provide moisture and protection. Several digestive disorders involve mucus in the stool.

Little research has been done on mucus in IBS. It’s unknown whether it’s related to inflammation.

Studies have reported a 50% prevalence of mucusy stools in IBS. It may be more common in men.

A Word From Verywell

Mucus in the stool is considered a benign (harmless) IBS symptom. Still, tell your healthcare provider about it.

That way, they can check for more serious causes. That process can either set your mind at ease or help you get additional treatments you may need.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is mucus with diarrhea common?
  • Yes, with certain gastrointestinal disorders. Common causes are bacterial infections from:E. coliShigellaSalmonellaCampylobacterClostridium About 50% of people with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome report mucus in their stool.
  • Learn More:
  • How to Treat a Stomach Infection
  • What does bloody mucus in your stool mean?
  • Bloody mucus in stool can be a sign of colorectal cancer. But it may also be caused by Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or an infection.Talk to your healthcare provider if you have blood in your stool or other unusual symptoms.
  • Learn More:
  • Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors

Yes, with certain gastrointestinal disorders. Common causes are bacterial infections from:

Bloody mucus in stool can be a sign of colorectal cancer. But it may also be caused by Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or an infection.