Fellowship-Trained Urogynecologist
Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
Green Bay, Wisconsin
✓ Medically reviewed March 2026
Is Fecal Incontinence Common After Childbirth?
Accidental bowel leakage after childbirth is more common than most women realize, but it’s rarely discussed openly. Research shows that anal sphincter injuries occur in up to 11% of vaginal deliveries, and many of these injuries go undiagnosed. Even when recognized and repaired at the time of delivery, some women develop bowel control problems later in life.
Why Childbirth Is a Risk Factor
- Anal sphincter tears — the sphincter muscles can be partially or completely torn during delivery
- Nerve injury — the pudendal nerve, which controls sphincter function, can be stretched or damaged
- Pelvic floor trauma — overall weakening of the pelvic floor affects bowel support
Risk factors for sphincter injury include forceps delivery, prolonged pushing, large baby, and first vaginal delivery.
Many women who develop fecal incontinence after childbirth had a sphincter injury that either wasn’t recognized or was repaired but didn’t heal completely. The symptoms may not appear until years later when natural aging further weakens the muscles.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing any accidental leakage of stool or gas — whether it started right after delivery or developed years later — it’s worth evaluation. This is a treatable condition, and there’s no need to suffer in silence.
I understand the courage it takes to bring up this topic. I want every patient to know that I treat fecal incontinence regularly, I take it seriously, and I can help.
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