soiling

soiling is uncontrolled leakage of stools into the underwear. This is normally associated with
chronic constipation and is usually totally outside the child’s control. Often the child is
unaware that they have soiled, even though stools may smell offensive to others. Lack of
awareness is due to changes to the anatomy of the large bowel as the result of constipation
and is not due to behavioural or psychological issues.
Rarely soiling is not caused by constipation. Any child who is soiling should be assessed by a
healthcare professional. Treatment is usually with laxatives, which may initially make the
problem worse. The laxatives may be required for months.