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Suggest Treatment For Fecal Incontinence
Question: I am 75 years old, female, married, 2 children. I have been treated for stress and urge in continence with medication and sling surgery, which worked very well. I continue to have fecal incontinence irregularly and had acupuncture at my doctors(urology clinic in an attempt to reduce it with no result.. What should I do as next steps to try to control my fecal accidents? I plan to see a gastroenterologist at the first of the new year.
Brief Answer:
You should consult with a gynecologic or pelvic reconstructive surgeon
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and I hope I can help you today.
The same process that can predispose a woman to stress incontinence- weakening of the pelvic floor muscles, can also lead to weakness of the anal sphincter and surrounding tissues. Becasie you did benefit from your previous sling surgery I seriously think you should consider pursuing corrective surgery.
Even though your problem is not with your bladder, the gynecologic subpecialty of urogyneclogy treats both bladder and coloroectal incontinence in women. Sometimes a colorectal surgeon is involved. Beforehand, studies are done testing the strength of the anal sphincter to rule out a neurological cause.
Sometimes, pelvic floor physical therapy can help symptoms of fecal incontinence. A gynecologist could refer you for evaluation if it seemed appropriate.
Urogynecologists are usually available in urban areas or university affiliated medical centers. Your own gynecologist may be able to help you find a specialist.
So in summary, consulting with either your gynecologist or a urogynecologist may give you a chance to have further effective options for treatment.
I hope I was able to adequately answer your question today and that my advice was helpful. If I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best wishes,
Dr. Brown
You should consult with a gynecologic or pelvic reconstructive surgeon
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and I hope I can help you today.
The same process that can predispose a woman to stress incontinence- weakening of the pelvic floor muscles, can also lead to weakness of the anal sphincter and surrounding tissues. Becasie you did benefit from your previous sling surgery I seriously think you should consider pursuing corrective surgery.
Even though your problem is not with your bladder, the gynecologic subpecialty of urogyneclogy treats both bladder and coloroectal incontinence in women. Sometimes a colorectal surgeon is involved. Beforehand, studies are done testing the strength of the anal sphincter to rule out a neurological cause.
Sometimes, pelvic floor physical therapy can help symptoms of fecal incontinence. A gynecologist could refer you for evaluation if it seemed appropriate.
Urogynecologists are usually available in urban areas or university affiliated medical centers. Your own gynecologist may be able to help you find a specialist.
So in summary, consulting with either your gynecologist or a urogynecologist may give you a chance to have further effective options for treatment.
I hope I was able to adequately answer your question today and that my advice was helpful. If I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Best wishes,
Dr. Brown
Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
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