Bowel problems can affect people in many ways, from a sudden need to rush to the toilet to discomfort when passing a bowel motion, or even difficulty passing anything at all.

Around 6.5 million people in the UK live with some form of bowel issue. Despite this, many find it hard to talk about, with most unaware of how common bowel-related issues are.

Some of the most common bowel problems include:

• Bowel urge incontinence – a sudden, urgent need to go to the toilet, sometimes making it difficult to get there in time.
   
• Passive soiling – when there is no warning before a bowel motion is passed.
   
• Leaking small amounts when passing wind.
   
• In some cases, health conditions can cause a complete loss of bowel control.
   

If you regularly experience any of these symptoms or have discomfort or pain, it’s important to speak to your GP. Don’t try to manage the condition on your own with continence products if you’re experiencing this for the first time. While these kinds of products may be useful in the short term, the priority is to identify the cause and agree on a treatment plan with a medical practitioner.

You can read more about:

• Possible Causes of Bowel Problems
   
• Ways to Manage Bowel Problems
   
• Where to Get Help
  
   

For a more detailed explanation of how your bowel works, visit:

• How the Bowel Works