If the volume of leaking stool is large, parents may interpret it as diarrhea. The cause of encopresis isn't certain. It isn't a disease but may be a symptom of constipation or emotional difficulties. Extra attention from parents about bowel movements may lead to the child's perception that stool is valuable and he or she should hold it in. Soiled underwear may result in additional attention from parents, which may encourage the child to repeat the behavior.
Toilet training can be a difficult process.
If you have questions or concerns about toilet training, discuss them with your child's doctor. Treatment of encopresis begins with clearing the colon of retained, impacted stool. This may involve colon lubricants, such as mineral oil, colon stimulants, such as lactulose, and suppositories and enemas. A doctor may recommend abdominal X-rays to document the progress of the colon cleaning. Then parents must start a program of promoting regular bowel movements and continue it for several months.