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Bowel Incontinence
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Digestive System

Bowel Incontinence

Bowel incontinence is the inability to control bowel movements, a condition that affects millions of people of all ages.

Overview

Bowel incontinence is the inability to control your bowels. When you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, you may not be able to hold it until you get to a toilet. While it is more common in women and older adults, it affects people of all ages and is not a normal part of aging.

Causes

Common causes of bowel incontinence include:

  • Constipation
  • Damage to muscles or nerves of the anus and rectum
  • Diarrhea
  • Pelvic floor disorders

Treatments

Treatments for bowel incontinence include changes in diet, medications, bowel training, or surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Constipation‑related incontinence usually presents with hard, infrequent stools and a feeling of incomplete evacuation, while diarrhea‑related incontinence involves loose, urgent stools that may be painful. A stool diary noting frequency, consistency, and urgency can help differentiate. Your clinician may order stool studies, a colonoscopy, or anorectal manometry to assess motility and sphincter function.
Increase soluble and insoluble fiber (whole grains, fruits, vegetables) and drink at least 8 cups of water daily. Establish a regular bathroom routine (e.g., after meals) and practice pelvic‑floor exercises (Kegels) to strengthen the anal sphincter. Avoid foods that trigger gas or diarrhea, limit caffeine and alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
Sudden loss of control often follows constipation, diarrhea, or a sudden urge that cannot be delayed. Other triggers include gas‑producing foods, caffeine, alcohol, certain medications (like opioids or anticholinergics), and stress. Prevention strategies are: keep a regular toileting schedule, increase dietary fiber and water intake, avoid foods that cause gas, use pelvic‑floor exercises to strengthen the sphincter, and discuss medication adjustments with your provider.
Surgery is considered when conservative measures (diet, medication, pelvic‑floor training) fail to control symptoms, or if there is structural damage such as a torn sphincter. Options include sphincter repair, placement of an artificial anal sphincter, or, in severe cases, a temporary colostomy. Discuss risks, benefits, and expected outcomes with a colorectal surgeon.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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