Coping and support

For some people, including children, fecal incontinence is a relatively minor problem, limited to occasional soiling of their underwear. For others, the condition can be devastating due to a complete lack of bowel control.

If you have fecal incontinence

You may feel reluctant to leave your house out of fear you might not make it to a toilet in time. To overcome that fear, try these practical tips:

• Use the toilet right before you go out.
• If you expect you'll be incontinent, wear a pad or a disposable undergarment.
• Carry supplies for cleaning up and a change of clothing with you.
• Know where toilets are located before you need them so that you can get to them quickly.
• Use pills to reduce the smell of stool and gas (fecal deodorants) available over-the-counter.

Because fecal incontinence can be distressing, it's important to take steps to deal with it. Treatment can help improve your quality of life and raise your self-esteem.