Use and evaluation of disposable absorbent products for managing fecal incontinence by community-living people.

PURPOSE

The use of disposable absorbent products by community-dwelling people with fecal incontinence (FI) was described.

METHODS

A survey was administered to 189 community-living individuals with FI at the start of a clinical trial about the effects of dietary fiber on FI.

RESULTS

Forty-five percent of respondents (86/189) used an absorbent product to manage FI. More women (88%, 76/86, P = .009) and persons aged 65 years and older (44%, 38/86, P = .001) wore an absorbent product. Participants who wore an absorbent product for FI had a higher (worse) FI severity score (median, 4.75; range, 1-27; P = .006). Sixty-three users wore pantiliners and they were the only ones who used more than 3 products per day. Feminine hygiene products were worn more than incontinence products. Half of users were satisfied with the product they used. Evaluations of product features differed by type of product; odor control had some of the lowest ratings.

CONCLUSIONS

Community-living individuals with FI, especially women and older individuals, tend to wear absorbent products. Perceptions of FI severity, preference, leakage of liquid stool, and presence of urinary incontinence influence the product type and pattern of wear. Participants report that modification of several features of absorbent products might make them more suitable for FI and increase satisfaction.