Arch Surg. Hypothesis Endoanal ultrasonographic results have demonstrated that clinically occult anal sphincter damage during vaginal delivery is common. This may or may not be associated with postpartum fecal incontinence FI. Bayesian meta-analysis of the literature revealed that at least two thirds of obstetric sphincter disruptions are asymptomatic in the postpartum period. Women with postpartum asymptomatic sphincter damage may be at increased risk for FI with aging compared with those without sphincter injury. Patients After excluding patients with other possible causes of FI, the histories of consecutive women with late-onset FI after vaginal delivery were analyzed. Main Outcome Measures Endoanal ultrasonographic findings, pudendal nerve terminal motor latency assessment, and anal manometric results. The mean incontinence score, squeeze and resting pressures, median age at last delivery, and median duration of FI were not significantly different between patients with and without sphincter defects. Pudendal neuropathy was more frequent in patients without sphincter defects 10 [


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Skip to main content. Search all BMC articles Search. Signs summarized in RCPCH systematic review Reflex Anal Dilatation The dynamic observation of the anus opening after minimal buttock traction, with relaxation of the external and internal sphincter muscles. Laxity Decreased anal muscle tone.
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Try out PMC Labs and tell us what you think. Learn More. There is uncertainty about the nature and specificity of physical signs following anal child sexual abuse.
Many men and women practice a broad range of voluntary sexual activities, most of which are harmless. The only erotic activities that have an unacceptable risk for injury are vaginal insufflation during pregnancy, and fist fornication. Many minor injuries of the genital, oral, and anal areas do occur but most require only symptomatic therapy. Vaginal lacerations focus primarily around the posterior fourchette, although the few most serious ones tend to be high in the vault.