Encopresis
Encopresis and Stool Soiling in Children
Soiling is almost never a behavior problem. It is usually chronic constipation, and it is very treatable.
Encopresis is involuntary stool leakage, usually caused by long-standing constipation that has stretched the rectum. Kids cannot feel the leakage and are not doing it on purpose.
Dr. Mendez takes the shame out of this diagnosis, leads families through a careful clean-out, and builds a long-term maintenance plan that protects bowel function and confidence.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms
- Streaks or larger amounts of stool in underwear
- Hiding soiled clothing
- Infrequent, large, or painful bowel movements
- Bloating and intermittent belly pain
- Loss of appetite
- Daytime urinary accidents or UTIs
Our Approach
How we treat it
- Honest conversation with kids and parents that this is medical, not misbehavior.
- A staged clean-out plan tailored to your child.
- Maintenance osmotic therapy with clear weaning criteria.
- Toilet sit schedules, fiber, fluids, and behavioral supports.
- Long-term follow-up so soiling does not return.
When to Reach Out
When to call a pediatric GI
- Any child older than four with stool accidents.
- Chronic constipation that returns whenever medication is stopped.
- Toilet refusal or fear of bowel movements.
- Stool soiling that is affecting school or self-esteem.
Ready to talk it through?
Concierge access means we have the time to listen, evaluate carefully, and stay with your family through every step.