What Causes Mucus in Your Stool?
Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 20th, 2026.
Mucus in stool typically results from intestinal inflammation, infections, or digestive disorders. Your intestinal lining naturally produces mucus to protect and lubricate the colon, but excessive amounts often indicate underlying issues. Common causes include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn's or ulcerative colitis, bacterial infections, and food intolerances. Stress, certain medications, and dietary factors can also trigger increased mucus production. Studies show that up to 20% of adults experience mucus in stool occasionally, though persistent mucus warrants medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions.
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