Anal Sphincter Injury

A sphincter injury is when the muscle surrounding the anal canal is damaged or torn. These muscles include the internal and external anal sphincter muscle, which play an important role in controlling bowel movements.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an anal sphincter injury depend on the severity of the injury and may include:

• The inability to control your bowel movements
• Increased gas
• Not being able to get completely clean after bowel movements
• Rectal pain

Treatments

The main treatment for an anal sphincter injury is to surgically repair the muscles.

Risk Factors

Anal sphincter injuries are more common in those who have had anal or rectal surgery, or tears or episiotomies during childbirth.