What is Rectal Incontinence?

Rectal Incontinence or bowel incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements. The rectum can become weakened an unable to hold the feces in place. This can be an embarrassing condition but usually not serious in nature.

What Causes Rectal Incontinence?

The most common cause of rectal incontinence is related to damage to the sphincter muscles of the anus. This damage can be from situations such as:

• Vaginal childbirth
• Inflammatory bowel disease

Diagnosis of Rectal Incontinence

• Stool testing which might indicate infections causing the incontinence
• Endoscopy to identify problems with the anal canal
• Nerve testing to check the nerves that control the sphincter muscles.

Treating Rectal Incontinence

There are some conservative approaches to treating rectal incontinence such as diet, medications and exercises. Following a proper evaluation, Dr. Sandmann can properly recommend whether conservative treatments or surgery will be the best course for correcting the issue.

Schedule an Appointment

To schedule an appointment with our McKinney Urogynecologist, call our clinic at (972) 961-9300.