Controlling Accidental Bowel Leakage

Accidental bowel leakage or “Anal Incontinence” (AI) is the involuntary loss of feces or gas through the anal canal. It is estimated that 2-15% of women in the general population suffer from AI. This is an isolating and socially debilitating condition, so it is widely believed that this estimate is under-reported.

Treating AI is complex because there can be multiple causes, but in women it is most often the result of injury to anal muscles during childbirth. The injury is sometimes not identified at the time it occurs but more frequently it is repaired poorly. Over time and with increasing age AI can develop.

Initial therapy involves dietary changes, managing constipation and diarrhea, and increasing fiber, but more advanced options are available. Vaginal devices that inflate can occlude the rectum

The torn anal muscles can be repaired through “sphincteroplasty ” but 70% of patients who undergo this procedure will still have AI five years after surgery. Substances such as collagen and silicone have been used to bulk or “plump” the sphincter muscles but each agent has drawbacks and so the ideal substance has yet to be identified.

Sacral Neuromodulation (Axonics® or Interstim®) is an FDA-approved therapy for AI and has long-term success at controlling leakage. In the U.S. is also approved for the treatment of Urinary Urge Incontinence and Urinary Retention.

Talk to your doctor about treatment options and get your freedom back.