I’ve recently started to have unexpected bowel movements. As you can imagine this is VERY embarrassing and I fear leaving the house. I’m recently retired and was looking forward to having the time to do things I never got a chance to do when my children were young. Any help or advise would be much appreciated. I just want to get my life back and enjoy my retirement.
Hi,
Sorry to hear you are struggling with this. It is estimated that 6.5 million people in the UK suffer from some form of bowel incontinence.
The first step in finding treatment for your condition is to find the underlying reason for your bowel movements. Seeing a Doctor can help you to find the underlying reason if you are unsure. If your incontinence is caused by diarrhoea, you should avoid foods that easily upset your digestive system. You should avoid substances that are known irritants, such as coffee and alcohol. Dairy products such as yoghurt and cheeses can also worsen diarrhoea. If your faecal incontinence is caused by constipation or haemorrhoids on the other hand, you should frequently consume liquids that soften the stools. An easy way to soften stools is through consuming more foods containing fibre. You can read our advice on an ideal diet plan for managing faecal incontinence for more information.
It may seem embarrassing to talk to a Doctor, however, it is important to have the opinion of a health professional. They may recommend you medication options such as anti-diarrheal medicines or laxatives. You will also be provided with options for surgery if medication or other lifestyle tips do not work.
Moderate physical activity helps to regulate normal bowel habits and can reduce your symptoms. Consider going running frequently or doing exercise such as swimming or gentle sport.
Do not worry about the embarrassment of unexpected bowel movements, as there are numerous pads and all-in-one products in the market for faecal incontinence. Plenty of online stores offer a variety of products for both mobile and immobile people.
Do have heavy or complete loss of bowel control, or are your leakages light and infrequent? Do not hesitate to ask for product advice.
Hi,
Thanks for the info. I feel like there might actually be a light at the end of the tunnel. They seem to be light-ish at the moment, but it does happen quite regular. I think the way forward for me will be to have a chat with my doctor. Can anyone advise on what these products are called. I have looked on several different websites, but the names and descriptions really don’t mean anything to me. Just need pointing in the right direction.
Don’t worry, choosing incontinence products can seem daunting when you have never had to shop for them before. Incontinence should not stop you from enjoying your retirement.
The type of product you choose for faecal incontinence depends on your level of mobility. If you are fairly active and mobile, absorbent pull up underwear is the best product option for you. They will feel just like normal underwear however with the additional security of leg cuffs. If you feel comfortable with wearing pull up pants, you should look for pants of the “Maxi” absorbency level. You also have the option of purchasing shaped pads designed especially for faecal incontinence.
If you are less mobile/independent and would prefer a product that is easier to put on and take off, products known as All-In-Ones are ideal for you. These tend to be more absorbent and are convenient to put on and take off.
Could you please let me know your level of mobility? I can then suggest some specific products that are ideal for you.
Hi,
That’s great, thanks. Seems a little clearer now. I still have really good mobility and am quite an active person. I have been doing a little research and i think you are right. The pull up pants seem to be a good option.
If you can suggest any specific products, i can then look into buying some. Thanks again for all your advice
Hi,
Have you tried any pull-up pants products?
The Attends Pull Ons Pants are useful for managing faecal incontinence and come in a range of different levels. The Attends Pull Ons 5 is ideal for managing your moderate incontinence. You can purchase these pants here.
