Fecal Incontinence Treatment Near Manitowoc, WI
For women in Manitowoc and the Lakeshore area dealing with accidental bowel leakage, expert care is available just 45 minutes away in Green Bay. Dr. Ryan Stewart is a fellowship-trained urogynecologist in Green Bay offering comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for fecal incontinence and other pelvic floor conditions.
Understanding Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence — also called accidental bowel leakage — is the involuntary loss of stool or gas. It’s far more common than most people realize, affecting about 1 in 10 women, yet it remains one of the most underreported medical conditions because of embarrassment.
Contributing factors include:
- Childbirth injury — damage to the anal sphincter muscles or nerves during vaginal delivery
- Nerve damage — from diabetes, spinal conditions, or surgical complications
- Muscle weakness — age-related decline in anal sphincter strength
- Chronic conditions — IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, or chronic diarrhea
Dr. Stewart explains: “I know this is one of the hardest conditions to talk about. I want you to know that accidental bowel leakage is far more common than you might think, and I treat it regularly. There’s no need for embarrassment in my office — only solutions.”
Learn more about fecal incontinence
Why See a Urogynecology Specialist?
While many healthcare providers can discuss fecal incontinence, a urogynecologist offers fellowship-trained specialization that general OB/GYNs and primary care providers typically cannot match. Depending on their background, urogynecologists complete either a 3-year fellowship after an OB/GYN residency or a 2-year fellowship after a urology residency, focused entirely on pelvic floor disorders — giving them the deepest expertise in conditions like fecal incontinence.
Dr. Stewart’s Approach
Dr. Stewart’s care philosophy centers on education and shared decision-making. The word “doctor” comes from the Latin docere — to teach — and this guides every patient interaction.
Dr. Stewart notes: “Fecal incontinence often coexists with other pelvic floor conditions, which is why seeing a urogynecologist makes sense. I can evaluate the whole picture and address everything together.”
Convenient Access from Manitowoc
Manitowoc residents are just 45 minutes from expert urogynecological care in Green Bay:
- Easy commute — a straightforward drive for appointments
- Telehealth available — virtual visits for consultations and follow-ups
- Most Wisconsin insurance plans accepted
- No referral necessary — schedule directly
Treatment Options
Effective treatments are available:
- Dietary management — fiber supplementation, identifying trigger foods
- Pelvic floor physical therapy — strengthening the anal sphincter and pelvic floor muscles with biofeedback
- Medications — anti-diarrheal agents to firm stool consistency
- Sacral neuromodulation — an implanted device that regulates the nerves controlling bowel function
- Sphincter repair surgery — for women with documented sphincter injuries
The right approach depends on your specific situation, severity, and personal goals. Dr. Stewart will walk you through each option so you can make an informed decision together.
Schedule Your Appointment
45 minutes from Manitowoc, WI
Telehealth consultations available — start your care from home in Manitowoc.
- No referral necessary
- Now accepting new patients
- Most Wisconsin insurance plans accepted, including Anthem, Dean, Quartz, Network Health, and UnitedHealthcare.
- In-person and virtual appointments available