Fecal incontinence and Controlling your Bowel Movements
Fecal incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, causing stool (feces) to leak unexpectedly from the rectum. Also called bowel incontinence, fecal incontinence ranges from an occasional leakage of stool while passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control. The ability to hold stool and maintain continence requires normal function of the rectum, anus and the nervous system.
Common causes
Fecal incontinence is considered a sign or a symptom, rather an a diagnosis of an issue. Usual it is the result of a complex mixture of factures that contribute to a weakening of the muscles that control your sphincter.
- Constipation – causes a weakening of anus and intestines
- Impacted stool in rectum
- Severe diarrhea
- Anal sphincter muscle damage
- Nerve or other muscle damage
- Gynecological, prostate or rectal surgery
- Chronic laxative abuse

“ Highest quality adult diaper available. TENA® Super briefs are by far the most reliable diaper.”
- TENA Customer in Alaska
Try TENA Today
Get a Free Trial KitTypical treatment
Lifestyle intervention
It can help to change the diet: eliminate alcohol and caffeine, and add more fiber to increase bulk of stool.
Bowel retraining
Bowel retraining can help promote better muscle tone.
Interventions
The success of treatment depends upon the exact causes and how easily these are corrected. Treatment choice depends on the cause and severity of disease, and the motivation and general health of the person effected. Commonly, conservative measures are used together, and if appropriate surgery carried out. Treatments may be attempted until symptoms are satisfactorily controlled.