Containment And Collection Options - Managing Fecal Incontinence: Bladder Conditions

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Containment and collection options

Absorbent products, such as pads and disposable undergarments, are designed primarily for urinary incontinence, and people with fecal incontinence often find them unsatisfactory. Of the range of choices available (see "Managing urinary incontinence"), those that provide "heavy" protection are most likely to be helpful for fecal incontinence. According to the limited studies available, disposable products with super-absorbent materials may provide the best protection and be easiest on your skin.

Fecal collection devices (such as Bard FCD and Hollister) are pouches that adhere to the skin around the anus to collect uncontrolled stool leakage. These devices control stool odor and can drain off liquid into a separate bag. To order such products, contact a medical supply house or catalog.

Anal plugs contain fecal incontinence by blocking the passage of stool. Limited research on these devices suggests that they are difficult to tolerate but can be an effective primary or occasional management technique for some people. Devices made of polyurethane (such as Peristeen, available in Canada) seemed to perform better than those made of polyvinyl-alcohol, according to one study. Anal plugs are primarily used by people with diminished anal sensation and those with significant neurological impairment from injury or illness.

Last updated:	September 05, 2008