The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis that are involved in urination, defecation and sexual response. As they relax, they lengthen toward the floor and the sphincters open. To help them relax, you can breathe very deeply, completely into your pelvis, so that the pressure of your breath helps them to lengthen. If you do this when you are about to have a bowel movement, it may speed up your bowel movements.

Also, consider elevating your feet on a stool when sitting on the toilet to defecate. Bringing the body into a deep squat position helps stretch the pelvic floor muscles even more, improving emptying and reducing bloating.