title: The prevalence of anal incontinence in post-partum women following obstetrical anal sphincter injury.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of anal incontinence (AI) in post-partum women following obstetrical anal sphincter injury (OASI). We also assessed quality of life and prevalence of other pelvic floor symptoms.
  
  
  METHODS
  Women who had third or fourth degree OASI were asked to complete the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire (PFIQ-7).
  
  
  RESULTS
  Survey response rate was 25% (n = 1,383). Average patient age was 33.4 years. Of the patients, 10.2% had a fourth degree tear, and 89.8% had a third degree tear. Prevalence of AI was 7.7% (formed stool), 19.7% (loose stool), and 38.2% (flatus). Average PFDI and PFIQ scores were significantly higher in the fourth degree tear group.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The community prevalence and impact of AI have not been well-studied. Establishment of a perineal clinic and an increase in resources may help educate women and expedite treatment for OASI.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
authors.forename: Rainbow Y T
authors.initials: RY
authors.lastname: Tin
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Schulz
authors.forename: Beth
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Gunn
authors.forename: Cathy
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Flood
authors.forename: Rhonda J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Rosychuk
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001003:Anal Canal / Q000293:injuries*; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D056887:Pelvic Organ Prolapse / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology; D049590:Postpartum Period; D015995:Prevalence; D011788:Quality of Life; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index