What is Fecal Incontinence (FI)?
Fecal incontinence (FI) is the loss of control over bowel movements, resulting in the unintentional passage of stool. This condition can range from occasional leakage when passing gas to a complete loss of bowel control. Various factors, including damage to the muscles or nerves in the rectum and anus, chronic constipation, or complications from surgery, can cause fecal incontinence. The condition can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, leading to social withdrawal and emotional distress.
What Causes Fecal Incontinence?
FI can result from several underlying causes. One of the most common causes is damage to the anal sphincter muscles, which can occur during childbirth, particularly if forceps or an episiotomy were used. Nerve damage, which can also happen during childbirth or due to conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis, can impair the nerve signals that control bowel movements. Chronic constipation can stretch and weaken the rectal muscles, leading to incontinence. Additionally, surgeries or radiation treatments involving the pelvic area can sometimes result in fecal incontinence. Aging is also a factor, as the muscles and tissues supporting the rectum weaken over time.
Available Treatments for Fecal Incontinence
At New Jersey Urogyn, we offer a range of treatments to address FI,, tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
- Pelvic Floor Therapy: Pelvic floor therapy is often one of the first-line treatments for FI. This therapy includes exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in controlling bowel movements. Techniques such as biofeedback, which helps patients learn to control these muscles more effectively, and electrical stimulation, which can improve muscle strength, are commonly used in this therapy. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can significantly reduce FI symptoms.
- Dietary Management: Dietary changes are often an essential part of management. Increasing fiber intake can help regulate bowel movements, while avoiding foods that may trigger diarrhea or gas can reduce the likelihood of accidents. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized dietary plan that supports your digestive health and helps manage incontinence.
- Medication: Medications may be prescribed to help control bowel movements and reduce the frequency of incontinence episodes. For example, anti-diarrheal medications can help firm up stools and reduce urgency, while laxatives can relieve constipation if it is contributing to incontinence. Our specialists will evaluate your condition and determine if medication is an appropriate option for you.
- Sphincteroplasty: In cases where a damaged anal sphincter muscle causes fecal incontinence, sphincteroplasty may be recommended. This surgical procedure involves repairing the injured muscle to restore its function and improve bowel control.
- Sacral Nerve Stimulation (SNS): Sacral nerve stimulation is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing a small device under the skin to stimulate the sacral nerves, which control bowel function. SNS can improve communication between the brain and the muscles that control bowel movements, thereby reducing episodes of incontinence. This treatment is often recommended for patients who have not responded well to other therapies. This is the most common procedural treatment for FI.
