Prevalence of Bowel Incontinence

Unless asked specifically about it, individuals often are reluctant to disclose bowel or fecal incontinence – even when talking to their own physician. This reluctance can make it difficult to obtain accurate estimates of the true prevalence of bowel/fecal incontinence. The results, and criteria, from several studies vary in reported prevalence of bowel/fecal incontinence.

"I thought I was the only one."

"You feel so alone. You don't dare tell most people."

Fecal incontinence affects people of all ages.

• In women living in the community, fecal incontinence occurs in 6% of those younger than 40 and increases to 15% in older women. Combined fecal and urinary incontinence is estimated to occur in about 10% of women.[1] 
• In men living in the community, fecal incontinence occurs in 6–10% and increases slightly with age. Combined fecal and urinary incontinence occur in 10% of men.[1]
• Two nursing home studies have identified a 45.0%[3] to 47.0%[4] prevalence of fecal incontinence among residents. Studies suggest that incontinence contributes to the decision to institutionalize elderly patients.
• Minor fecal incontinence (staining underclothes, or leaking or losing less than 2 tsp. of stool) affects 7.4% of adult males and 6.9% of adult females.[2]
• Approximately 30% of people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have frequent loose stools and 20%[5] report fecal incontinence.
• Obstetrical trauma, leading to sphincter muscle injury or pudendal nerve injury, is a common cause of fecal incontinence.[6]

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