Hello, jtd632, What you have is typical of Irritable Bowel Syndrome-Constipation predominant. This can occur in both young men and women. There has been and still is a lot of research going into this trying to understand the basic cause . What we know, is that this not a psychological issue. This has something to do with Brain-Gut hormonal mechanism that affects the contractions of the colon musculature and the nerve endings that control this. Essentially, you have a lazy or slow colon. Using laxatives, stimulants and enemas can temporarily work. What has worked is changing your dieatary habits and incorporate enough fiber in your diet. Eating whole grain cereal, fresh vegetables, nuts are all helpful. Also, you need to keep your fluid intake adquate daily. Regular excercise at least three times a week, even if it is brisk walking is good. What you can try for stubborn costipation, with hard stools, you may get better results with a PEG-solution (Polyethylene Glycol). There are brand name and generic products such as Miralax or equivalent solution. Start that 2-3 tablespoons a day and increse it till you start having diarrhea. Then decrease the dose gradually till your stool is of near normal consistency. This you can follow for 2-3 months if you need it. If you are taking enough dietary fiber, you will get regulated. I am sure that your GI doctor will guide you appropriately along the lines of advice that I have mentioned. I wish you well.