Summary

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. Millions of Americans have this problem. It affects people of all ages – children and adults. It is more common in women and older adults. It is not a normal part of aging.

Causes include:

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

Treatments include changes in diet, medicines, bowel training, or surgery.

NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases