Bowel Control Problems
Bowel Issues? You’re Not Alone
If you’re dealing with bowel incontinence or chronic constipation, it can be difficult to talk about, much less experience. Patients suffering these conditions often can’t make it to the toilet on time to prevent leakage of stools—or once they’re there, find that they can’t go (constipation). Gas and bloating can be other related symptoms.
In the U.S. one in 12 adults suffer from bowel incontinence, while about 4 million adults experience chronic constipation.
But don’t suffer in silence or be embarrassed. As urogynecologists, we are experienced in diagnosing and treating issues with the muscles and nerves that cause bowel control problems.
Treatments
Our urogynecology practice offers a wide range of treatments for bowel incontinence or chronic constipation, including:
- Dietary changes. Adding fiber to your diet can make stools firmer and promote more complete passage of bowel movements. Our physicians can also recommend more specific diet changes for both incontinence and constipation.
- Medications. Laxatives help soften stools if you’re constipated, while anti-diarrheal medications can help make stools firmer.
- Physical therapy. Pelvic muscle exercises can improve strength, tone, endurance and coordination. Used in conjunction with exercise, biofeedback can help you pinpoint and better control these muscles.
- Bulking therapy. During this procedure, your urogynecologist injects a safe gel-like material around the rectum and anus, which carry stool out of your body. The gel bulks up the area to help block leakages.
- InterStim. This neuromodulation device is implanted in the body and sends gentle electronic pulses to help strengthen and contract pelvic and anal sphincter muscles (those muscles that help control bowel movements).
- Sphincter repair surgery (sphinteroplasty). If the anal sphincter (the muscle that helps control passage of bowel movements) is injured or weakened, you may require a surgical procedure to strengthen and tighten this area.
Patient Education
Download information guides offered by the International Urogynecological Association for more answers to your questions.
• Constipation
Schedule an Appointment Now
To make an appointment, call us at 706-446-1300. Our friendly specialists will schedule a time as soon as possible.
Or leave a message on our Consult-a-Nurse line. Our practiced urogynecological nurses will respond to your question within 48 hours. Call 706-721-6741.