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Obstetric practice and faecal incontinence three months after delivery
C MacArthur1, C M Glazener, P D Wilson
1Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK.
Summary
Forceps delivery nearly doubles the risk of postpartum fecal incontinence, while Cesarean section may offer protection. Vacuum extraction showed no association with incontinence at three months postpartum.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics
- Gynecology
- Pelvic Floor Disorders
Background:
- Postpartum fecal incontinence affects a significant number of women.
- Understanding obstetric and maternal risk factors is crucial for prevention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between obstetric factors and maternal characteristics with fecal incontinence at three months postpartum.
Main Methods:
- A postal questionnaire was administered to women at three months postpartum.
- Data on fecal incontinence was linked to obstetric casenote information.
- Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of postpartum fecal incontinence was 9.6%.
- Forceps delivery was associated with an increased risk (OR = 1.94).
- Cesarean section was associated with a reduced risk (OR = 0.58), while vacuum extraction was not.
Conclusions:
- Forceps delivery is a significant risk factor for postpartum fecal incontinence.
- Cesarean section may provide a protective effect against developing fecal incontinence.
- Vacuum extraction was not found to be associated with this condition.