School & social impact
Children with encopresis are often taunted, bullied, and ostracized from their peers, resulting in low self-esteem and decreased academic achievement.
Har & Croffie, 2010About Encopresis
It's common, it's not your child's fault, and it's treatable.
Encopresis can feel isolating and frustrating. Here you will find clear, science-backed information to help you understand what is happening and what to do next.
What is encopresis?
When children have encopresis, it means they cannot control their bowel movements and have poop accidents in their underwear. Sometimes people use the words “soiling” or “fecal incontinence” to mean encopresis.
Encopresis is a frustrating and difficult disorder for children and their families, and it can be hard to treat. In almost all cases, encopresis develops as a result of long-standing constipation. Most children suffering from encopresis have a history of constipation or passing very large, painful poops. In some cases, neither the child nor the parents recall the constipation since it was so long ago.
Encopresis is not your fault or your child’s fault.
In most cases, children with encopresis do not have their accidents on purpose, out of spite, or because they are lazy. Rather, many secondary behavioral problems as a result of the encopresis. Once the encopresis is treated, many of the behavioral problems can get better. However, behavior therapy is usually not sufficient to cure the problem.
“One of the most important tasks for parents of children with encopresis is to seek early care.”
— American Academy of Pediatrics
Encopresis, also known as fecal incontinence, is a true medical problem that requires intervention and help. Numerous scientific studies have shown the importance of pursuing both medical management and behavioral training as soon as possible. Because encopresis is considered a developmental disorder, many parents incorrectly believe that a child will “grow out of it.” In fact, no maturing out effect has been scientifically documented.
Why early care matters
Based on research, what might happen if my child’s encopresis isn’t addressed quickly?
Lower self-esteem
Parents have rated the child’s lack of self-esteem as the most important consequence of constipation and incontinence, and these children have been found to exhibit more emotional and behavioral difficulties than others.
Bernard-Bonnin, Haley, Belanger & Nadeau, 1993Cost of missed work
Based on surveys conducted as part of a research study, the cost of encopresis in terms of missed days work, transportation, and toileting supplies averages $40 per week, not including doctor visits.
Ritterband & Thorndike, 2005Where to go next
Find what you need
Possible causes
How chronic constipation leads to encopresis — and what's happening inside.
Tips for parents
Practical, real-world advice from clinicians and from other parents.
FAQ
Quick answers to the questions parents ask most.
Find a pediatric GI
Locate a pediatric gastroenterologist near you to start treatment.
Resources
Trusted organizations and further reading from around the web.