Fecal incontinence is more common in women than men. Most cases of fecal incontinence are caused by damage to the sphincter muscle. In women, damage commonly occurs during childbirth, especially in a difficult delivery involving forceps or an episiotomy. Muscle damage can also occur as the result of rectal surgery, inflammatory bowel disease or an abscess in the perirectal area. Other causes of fecal incontinence are damage to the nerves that control the anal muscle or that are responsible for rectal sensation and reduction in the elasticity of the rectum.
Medical tests can pinpoint the cause of fecal incontinence and help determine the course of therapy.
Anorectal biofeedback can improve, or even cure, the problem of fecal incontinence in many people.