Bowel Management Program
COCOE offers a comprehensive Bowel Management Program that provides customized treatment for children who experience constipation and/or fecal incontinence (the inability to control their bowels).
- Previously operated anorectal and cloacal malformations
- Previously treated Hirschsprung’s disease
Our program uses a multidisciplinary approach, with access to the pediatric colorectal specialists needed to oversee your child’s care.
How the Bowel Management Program works
Children are seen on an outpatient basis for an intensive week of therapy, and then at about 3 and 12 months. Enemas or laxatives may be given to ensure your child has a clean bowel before treatment begins. Your child’s treatment is specifically tailored to their unique needs and condition.
Treatment at our bowel management clinics include:
- Administering medications (such as laxatives) or enemas when needed to soften stool and relax rectal muscles.
- Education for families on how continence works and why some children experience soiling
- Establishing a bathroom schedule and routine (based around the gastrocolic reflux) to train your child to recognize their body cues and to avoid soiling and accidents
- Connecting with parent support groups: Pull-thru Network
- Setting up a reward system to help encourage your child to go to the bathroom
- Social work helps provide assistance in making travel arrangements and accommodations for those visiting from out of state.
Your child’s time in the program may vary depending on several factors including their age, the type of surgical procedure they’ve had (if any) and the severity of their condition. Typically, children who are at potty training age see positive results within three to four months. School-age children may see results