Q. How common is fecal incontinence after childbirth?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Fecal incontinence, or the inability to control bowel movements, is far more common following childbirth than you might think. According to a 2019 study published in the International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, about one in four women develop fecal incontinence after childbirth. The most common cause of this is called sphincter dysfunction or weakened anal sphincters — muscles which help keep stool inside your intestines until you're ready to have a bowel movement. This can be caused by tearing of the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) that sometimes occurs during labor and delivery and can weaken both urinary and anal sphincter muscles; however, it's also thought that hormone changes associated with pregnancy may contribute to the weakening of these muscles as well. In addition, surgery such as episiotomy used to enlarge the vaginal opening may damage surrounding pelvic floor tissues leading to fecal incontinence too.
Fortunately there are treatment options available for postpartum women suffering from fecal incontinence including pelvic floor exercises such as Kegels, dietary modifications like avoiding high-fiber foods which can make it difficult to fully empty your bowels during defection (or even use stool softeners), medications designed for treating onodparous patients specifically such as Loperamide Hydrochloride (Imodium®) which helps slow down digestion so that stools remain in your system longer than usual , biofeedback sessions with healthcare professionals who specialize in teaching patients how their bodies work when it comes time process digestive wastes; finally - systemic treatments like botulinum toxin injections into anal sphincters or sacral nerve stimulation are some other options available for those struggling with this issue after giving birth!
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