Childhood Encopresis Alliance
Supporting children, accompanying families.
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The importance of these steps in the treatment of encopresis
As we have already explained, encopresis is a disorder in which children experience involuntary leakage of stool, usually as a result of chronic constipation. Its treatment requires a comprehensive approach that combines medical intervention, healthy habits and routines, and family support.
Below we explain the importance of each of these key steps:
1. Disimpaction and medical support:
The first step in the treatment of encopresis is disimpaction, which involves removing the accumulation of hardened stool in the rectum. This step is PRIMARY. Without this step, the intestine will not be able to regain its sensitivity and encopresis will persist.
This process should be supervised by a doctor, who will indicate the appropriate use of laxatives or other methods. In addition, monitoring is key to assessing the child's progress and adjusting the treatment as necessary.
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2. Good nutrition: Key to preventing relapses
Following disimpaction, it is essential to keep the bowel moving with a diet rich in fiber and fluids. A proper diet includes:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Whole grains and legumes.
- Lots of water to facilitate evacuation.
Avoiding ultra-processed and low-fiber foods will help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
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3. Bathroom habits: Re-educate the intestine
Restoring the child's ability to evacuate voluntarily is an essential step. To do this, it is recommended that:
- Encourage the child to sit on the toilet after each meal, taking advantage of the gastro-colic reflex.
- Make sure that the baby has support for his or her feet, which facilitates the physiological posture for defecation.
- Do not put pressure or punish if the child does not evacuate at first.
4. Establish routines: The intestine needs order
Children with encopresis need clear routines, as the bowel responds better to regularity.
Establishing fixed times for meals, bathing and hydration will help improve bowel function.
Patience and perseverance are the key in this process.
5. Communication and support:
The emotional aspect also plays a fundamental role. Encopresis can cause shame, anxiety or frustration in children, so it is essential to:
- Provide an environment of trust and support without scolding or punishment.
- Explain in a simple way what is happening in your body and reassure you that with treatment you will improve.
Encourage emotional expression and reinforce achievements with words of encouragement.
A comprehensive approach to overcoming encopresis
Always remember that encopresis is a challenge that is not solved immediately, but with a comprehensive approach that includes adequate treatment, patience and constant support from family and environment, it is possible to achieve significant progress and overcome this condition successfully.