Anal Incontinence (AI) is the inability to reach the toilet in time or control flatus. One in five women develop AI in the first five years after having a vaginal birth. The timing of onset varies; some women having AI early after childbirth, whilst many develop symptoms during the menopause. AI has a significant negative impact on a woman’s quality of life with undesirable effects on her psychosocial and emotional wellbeing. The main barrier for women accessing treatment is a lack of education on AI both for women and health care professionals.

Background to the Study

The GRACE Study was a collaboration between researchers at the University of Warwick, and the MASIC Foundation. Between October 2021 and May 2022, we carried out in-depth interviews with 41 women, from diverse backgrounds, experiencing anal incontinence caused by a childbirth injury. During the interviews women discussed their experiences of anal incontinence, its impact of their lives and healthcare experiences.

Publications

The GPs role in supporting women with anal incontinence after childbirth injuryLink opens in a new window | British Journal of General Practice (bjgp.org)

Womens experiences of anal incontinence following vaginal birth: A qualitative study of missed opportunities in routine care contactsLink opens in a new window | PLOS ONE

You can hear Dr Sarah Hillman speaking on Radio 4 'Woman's Hour' about the outcomes of the GRACE Study.Link opens in a new window

Funded by:

NIHR Research for Patient Benefit

Research team members:

Dr Sarah Hillman: Co-lead, Clinical Lecturer & GP, University of Warwick Prof Debra Bick: Co-lead, Professor, University of Warwick Dr Jo Parsons: Research Fellow, University of Warwick Dr Abi Eccles: Assistant Professor, University of Warwick Prof Kate Seers: Professor, University of Warwick Julie Cornish: Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, MASIC Foundation Anna Clements: MASIC & Public Representative Sarah Embleton: Public Representative Dr Abigail McNiven: Senior Qualitative Researcher, University of Oxford Chloe Oliver: CEO at MASIC Prof Michael Keighley: President of MASIC Jen Hall: Social Media and Website Co-ordinator MASIC Mrs Helen McGowan WMS

Enquiries:

Dr Sarah Hillman

s dot hillman at warwick dot ac dot uk