Bowel Control Problems (Fecal Incontinence)

Fecal incontinence, also called accidental bowel leakage, is the accidental passing of solid or liquid stools from your anus. You may have a strong urge to have a bowel movement and not be able to control it. You may have bowel leakage and not know it.

The symptoms of fecal incontinence include a strong urge for a bowel movement and not being able to control it, and passing solid or liquid stool without knowing it. Fecal incontinence has many causes, including digestive tract disorders and chronic diseases.

Doctors use your medical history, a physical exam, and tests to diagnose fecal incontinence and its causes. Your doctor will ask specific questions about your symptoms. Play an active role in your diagnosis by talking openly and honestly with your doctor.

How doctors treat fecal incontinence depends on the cause. Your doctor can also recommend ways to manage and treat fecal incontinence yourself. Play an active role in your treatment by talking openly and honestly with your doctor.

Changing what you eat can help prevent or relieve your fecal incontinence. Keeping a food diary can help you and your doctor find out which foods and drinks make your symptoms better or worse.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and other components of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) conduct and support research into many diseases and conditions.