Anal incontinence is the accidental loss of faeces (poo) or Flatus (wind).
Bowel urgency is the sudden need to open your bowels with little warning.
The symptoms can be very distressing and can make it difficult to carry on with your normal routine. You do not have to put up with these symptoms and help is available from your healthcare professional.
It is the job of the pelvic floor muscles to:
Support the bladder, uterus and bowel
Prevent leakage of urine (wee), faeces (poo) and flatus (wind)
Start by exercising your pelvic floor muscles 3 times a day
Follow good bowel health. Eat a varied diet of fresh fruit, vegetables and fibre and drink around 2 litres of water a day.
If you have the sudden urge to poo, try to squeeze your pelvic floor muscles around your anus for 10 seconds. This can help control the urge and prevent leakage.
Make sure you open your bowels fully, take your time and relax the pelvic floor muscles. Don’t strain whilst opening your bowels and if you are constipated see your pharmacist or GP.
How to avoid straining on the toilet
Sit on the toilet with a stool under your feet
Your knees should be higher than your hips
Lean forward and put your elbows on your knees
Buldge out your abdomen
Straighten your spine
Do not strain and keep your tummy muscles relaxed
It is helpful to take a slow breath in through your nose so that your stomach moves outwards, and your chest remains still and then exhale through pursed lips.
