Fecal Incontinence

Fecal incontinence, also known as bowel incontinence, is loss of control of bowel movements, causing unexpected fecal leak from the rectum. It is more common among women than men.

Causes of Fecal Incontinence

• Muscle damage as a result of childbirth
• Nerve damage as a result of:
  
  • Childbirth
  • Bowel movement straining
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • Multiple sclerosis
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Rectal damage or scarring as a result of:
  
  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
• Surgery to treat hemorrhoids or other conditions
• Rectal prolapse
• Rectocele
• Aging

Diagnosing Fecal Incontinence 

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms and perform a physical examination to assess your anal sphincter muscle. Procedures include:

• Ultrasound
• Anal manometry
• Defecography – also known as evacuation proctography, evaluates pelvic floor muscles and rectum during a bowel movement
• Pudendal nerve testing – determines whether the pudendal nerve in the pelvis correctly functions

Treating Fecal Incontinence 

Houston Methodist doctors will discuss your condition and determine your personalized treatment plan. Options may include:

• Diet changes<
• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Medications
• Surgery