Continence
Most people are familiar with advertising for feminine products for leakage, but what about the other half of the population?
Urinary and faecal incontinence is not limited to females. It is estimated that urinary incontinence affects up to 13% and faecal incontinence affects up to 20% of males. Incontinence is more common in an elderly population.
And what about faecal incontinence? It shouldn’t be something that we find difficult to discuss, after all it is a normal body function. But what is normal? This can vary from 1-3 bowel motions per day to 3 per week. Beyond frequency of bowel motions there are a few other factors that are considered part of normal bowel function.
- Do you evacuate fully?
- No need to go again in quick succession?
- Can you pass a bowel motion without straining and pain?
- Are you able to hold on a little while when you feel the need to go?
- Do you have enough time to get to a bathroom and undress without leakage?
- Do you pass your bowel motion within a minute of sitting on the toilet?
If you responded no to any of these questions you may have some signs of faecal incontinence.
Please discuss your symptoms with your physiotherapist or health practitioner to get the appropriate assistance.