Prevalence of Fecal Incontinence After Childbirth in Turkey: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

BackgroundFecal incontinence (FI), defined as the reduced or lost ability to control the elimination of solid or liquid stool and gas due to anal sphincter dysfunction, is mostly caused by childbirth.AimThis study aimed to determine the prevalence of postpartum fecal incontinence in Turkey.MethodsThis systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted between December 1 and December 31, 2024, considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. The literature search was performed using PubMed, Science Direct, Medline, Ovid, Ebsco CINAHL Plus, and Cochrane Library databases. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the checklist developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute.ResultsA total of six studies were included in this review. The combined results indicated that the prevalence of postpartum fecal incontinence in Turkey is approximately 3%. Women who delivered by cesarean section had significantly lower rates of FI than those who delivered vaginally (z = 3.10, p = 0.002, CI: 0.39 [0.21, 0.71]). Additionally, the combined results of the studies showed no significant relationship between fecal incontinence and menopausal status, indicating that premenopausal and postmenopausal women had similar rates of fecal incontinence (z = 0.02, p = 0.98, CI: 0.97 [0.10, 9.47]).ConclusionFecal incontinence can occur after childbirth. The postpartum fecal incontinence rate in Turkey is 3%, and it is associated with the mode of delivery but not with menopausal status. A thorough postpartum examination is recommended for the early detection of fecal incontinence.PROSPERO Registration No: CRD420250653603.ConclusionFecal incontinence can occur after childbirth. The postpartum fecal incontinence rate in Turkey is 3%, and it is associated with the mode of delivery but not with menopausal status. A thorough postpartum examination is recommended for the early detection of fecal incontinence.PROSPERO Registration No: CRD420250653603.