Children and Bowel Irrigation

Bowel Problems in Children

Becoming continent is an important milestone in a child’s life. It helps the child to socialize independently and participate in daily activities. Bowel leakage affects self-esteem and confidence and may hinder social interaction.

Children’s bowel problems are something that affects the whole family. Constipation among younger children is common and, in most cases, laxatives, bulking agents, and toilet training will help. For some children with bowel problems, using bowel irrigation may be an option to reduce or eliminate bowel accidents.

How Does Bowel Irrigation for Children Work?

There are no specific recommendations for the best time to introduce bowel irrigation to children. Most children are toilet trained by the age of three. A bowel problem will become more apparent at this age. Bowel irrigation, also called transanal irrigation (TAI), should ideally be introduced when the child is able to cooperate and understand the process.

Diagnoses or conditions in children where bowel irrigation can be a treatment option are:

• Hirschsprung disease
• Anorectal malformation
• Spina bifida
• Functional constipation (i.e. no underlying cause of the problems has been identified)

Here you can find a guide to bowel irrigation for children that has been developed to support parents or caregivers. The aim is to provide knowledge and insight into how the bowel works and how bowel irrigation can help your child.