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Coping and support
By Mayo Clinic staff
If you have fecal incontinence
If you have fecal incontinence, you may not want to leave your house out of fear you might have an accident. To overcome that fear, try these practical tips:
- Use the toilet right before you go out.
- If you expect you'll be incontinent, wear a pad or a disposable undergarment.
- Carry cleanup supplies and a change of clothing with you.
- Know where toilets are before you need them so that you can get to them quickly.
Because fecal incontinence can be distressing, it's important to take steps to deal with it. Treatment can help improve your quality of life and raise your self-esteem. If you haven't been to a doctor yet, make an appointment.
If you're caring for someone who has fecal incontinence
If you care for someone with fecal incontinence, try to be supportive. Be careful not to criticize. In addition:
- Take him or her to the doctor to see what treatment options are available.
- Take your loved one to the toilet regularly to help avoid an accident.
- Make sure clothing can be easily removed.
- Place a commode near the bed.
- Put washable cushions or slipcovers on furniture.
- At night, have your loved one use absorbent undergarments and put washable pads on the bed.
