Different types of laxatives work differently. Bulking agents work by adding fibre or ‘bulk’ to your stool. They also help ‘attract’ more water into your intestinal (gut) contents and increase its volume, making it easier to push the stool out. Osmotic laxatives are substances that aren’t well absorbed by your gut. When they reach your intestines, they attract more water into your intestinal contents. This increases the volume of your stool and can make it easier and more comfortable to pass. Stimulant laxatives stimulate the nerves in your gut so that the muscles contract more and the stool is pushed through your gastrointestinal tract more quickly. Stool softeners and lubricants make your stool easier to pass by drawing more water and fats into your stool.