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Updated: Apr 22, 2026

Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse POP Quantification System
Published on: September 20, 2018
Obstetrics and fecal incontinence
1Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UT Southwestern School of Medicine, Dallas, Texas.
Anal incontinence (AI) after vaginal delivery can be debilitating. Diagnosis involves delivery history, physical exam, and sonography. Treatments range from lifestyle changes to surgery and neuromodulation.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pelvic Floor Disorders
- Female Pelvic Medicine
Background:
- Anal incontinence (AI) is a common and debilitating condition affecting women post-vaginal delivery.
- Operative vaginal delivery and anal sphincter lacerations are significant risk factors for developing postpartum AI.
- Early identification and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the risk factors, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for anal incontinence in women following vaginal delivery.
- To provide clinicians with a comprehensive overview of managing postpartum anal incontinence.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on anal incontinence following vaginal delivery.
- Discussion of diagnostic approaches including clinical history, physical examination, and sonographic imaging.
- Overview of current and emerging treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- Key risk factors identified include operative vaginal delivery and anal sphincter defects.
- Comprehensive history, physical examination, and sonography are essential for accurate diagnosis.
- A multimodal treatment approach is often necessary, encompassing conservative and surgical interventions.
Conclusions:
- Anal incontinence is a significant complication of vaginal delivery, influenced by operative interventions and sphincter trauma.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical assessment and imaging techniques.
- Effective management requires a tailored, multimodal strategy addressing the underlying causes and symptoms.
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