The Health series is presented by AdventHealth
Many of us put off visiting the doctor for a variety of reasons—finances, schedule, or a belief that our problems simply aren’t that bad. But anxiety can also keep us from seeking medical care, especially when dealing with a condition that causes us to feel embarrassment. Stephanie Peters, MD, MS, a colorectal surgeon with AdventHealth, regularly provides care for patients experiencing fecal incontinence and wants to stop the stigma.
While it’s difficult to know the exact number of people dealing with fecal incontinence, Peters reassures patients they’re not alone. “Some research studies have estimated anywhere from one to 20 percent of the population experiences fecal incontinence,” Peters says. “While this wide range can be due to differences in research study design, I think it also highlights the likelihood that incontinence is underreported by the general population.”
There are many reasons someone could be experiencing fecal incontinence. Peters says causes can be anything from changes in anatomy to neurologic disorders, poor pelvic floor muscle coordination, or even diarrhea and constipation. And the treatment plans are just as varied. “Management often starts with dietary modification and optimizing stool quality and toilet habits,” Peters says. “Skin care and hygiene can also be addressed as well as social support.”
Medical advancements in this area have made some notable strides in recent years. “Just over the last decade, sacral nerve stimulation has been FDA approved. While not every patient will be a candidate or benefit from this therapy, it has shown significant improvement of symptoms and quality of life for a great majority of individuals studied—including long-term benefits,” Peters says.
The temptation to avoid care due to perceived shame or stigma can be high for patients experiencing fecal incontinence, but Peters remains reassuring. “We want our patients to be able to live their best lives. Many causes of fecal incontinence are treatable, and we can see great improvement or even resolution of symptoms with interventions.” While medical therapies and surgical interventions are available, Peters highlights another important aspect of care. “I think mental health is particularly important, and we encourage patient to work with primary care physicians, psychologists, or psychiatrists, depending on their needs.”
Seeking care for incontinence may also lead to a diagnosis of other health-related issues, which can then also be addressed by AdventHealth’s team of specialists, including doctors from gastroenterology, gynecology, urology, neurology, or physical therapy, including pelvic floor physical therapy.
“Fecal incontinence can really take a toll on the individual and their support system, and we don’t want them to feel like they have to deal with this alone,” Peters says. It’s important to remember your medical team wants to help. “I often hear, ‘I wish I came in sooner.’ I think it is important to remember that it is never too late to seek care and that we are discussing normal bodily functions. There should be no stigma associated with this.”