ABSTRACT
The severity of incontinence can be classified depending on the frequency of incontinent episodes. Elective caesarean section appears to be the only preventive measure to avoid sphincter and pelvic floor damage; however, it has been reported that there was no reduction in the prevalence of persistent faecal incontinence in women following elective caesarean section when compared to a normal vaginal delivery. Subsequent vaginal deliveries may worsen anal incontinence symptoms. All women who have had a third- and fourth-degree tear in their previous pregnancy should be counselled regarding the risk of developing anal incontinence or worsening symptoms with subsequent vaginal delivery. The prevalence of faecal incontinence on direct questioning of women before pregnancy, at 34 weeks’ gestation, and after delivery was found to be 0.7 per cent, 6.0 per cent, and 5.5 per cent, respectively. Neuropathy of the pudendal nerve may result from forceps delivery or persistent nerve compression from the fetal head.
