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Bristol Stool Chart

The seven types of the Bristol stool form scale, with the standard description of each. Select a type, or print the chart.

Bristol Stool Form Scale

  1. Type 1Separate hard lumps, like nuts (hard to pass).
  2. Type 2Sausage-shaped, but lumpy.
  3. Type 3Like a sausage, but with cracks on its surface.
  4. Type 4Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft.
  5. Type 5Soft blobs with clear-cut edges (passed easily).
  6. Type 6Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool.
  7. Type 7Watery, no solid pieces. Entirely liquid.

Harder, slower transit: On the scale, types 1 and 2 are described as forms that go with a slower passage through the bowel.

Commonly described typical range: On the scale, types 3 and 4 are the forms commonly described as the typical range.

Looser, faster transit: On the scale, types 5, 6 and 7 are described as forms that go with a faster passage through the bowel.

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A personal log, not medical advice.

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About the scale

The Bristol stool form scale was published by Lewis and Heaton in 1997. It groups stool form into seven types so that people and clinicians can describe it in the same words. Types 1 and 2 are the harder forms, types 3 and 4 are the forms commonly described as typical, and types 5 to 7 are looser, up to entirely liquid.

The scale names forms. It does not diagnose anything, and it does not say what a form means for the person recording it. A common use is to write down a type for each bowel movement, so the record is clear when it is shown to a doctor or dietitian.

General information, not medical advice

This page describes and records. It does not diagnose, treat or recommend anything, and it cannot tell you what your own entries mean. For questions about your health, ask a doctor or other qualified health professional.

Talk to a doctor if you notice

  • Blood in your stool, or black stools
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • An ongoing change in your bowel habits that lasts for several weeks
  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain

Sources

Frequently asked questions

What is the Bristol stool chart?

The Bristol stool form scale is a seven-type chart that describes the form of stool, from separate hard lumps (type 1) to entirely liquid (type 7). It was published by Lewis and Heaton in 1997 as a guide to intestinal transit time.

Where do the types sit on the scale?

Types 1 and 2 are described as harder forms with slower transit. Types 3 and 4 are the forms commonly described as the typical range. Types 5 to 7 are described as looser forms with faster transit.

Is there a Bristol stool chart PDF?

Use the print button on the chart and choose "Save as PDF" in your browser's print dialog. The printed page holds the chart, the descriptions and the source, and hides the rest of the site.

What does the chart tell me about my own health?

It describes and names forms so they can be recorded in a consistent way. It cannot tell you what your own result means. If you have questions or concerns, talk to a doctor.

Can I keep a record using the chart?

Yes. The free food and symptom diary lets you pick a type for each bowel movement, view the week, print it and export it as CSV. Entries stay in your browser.