IT seems the famous British stiff upper lip is alive and well.

According to a recent survey by Dulcolax, almost half (49 per cent) of women say they are embarrassed to talk about bowel movements, with almost two-thirds adding they would not talk to their pharmacist or GP, even if they saw a worrying change.

We know many people suffer in silence because they are too embarrassed to talk about the issue, yet constipation and other bowel worries affect millions of people.

Beating Bowel Cancer wants the nation to be more open and willing to talk about going to the loo, and to discuss health concerns as soon as they appear.

So we have joined forces with Dulcolax to encourage people to talk.

We’re urging everyone to visit LetsTalkConstipation. co.uk for information and advice on bowel-related matters.

Unusual or unexpected changes in going to the loo should be discussed with your GP, as the earlier the diagnosis, the easier the treatment.

If you’re worried, you could also contact us for advice and support beatingbowelcancer.org.

Mark Flannagan, Beating Bowel Cancer.