Women's experiences of anal incontinence following vaginal birth: A qualitative study of missed opportunities in routine care contacts.

OBJECTIVES:This study aimed to explore experiences of women with anal incontinence following a childbirth injury, and to identify areas of missed opportunities within care they received. DESIGN:This is a qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews. SETTING:Participants were recruited via five hospitals in the UK, and via social media adverts and communication from charity organisations. PARTICIPANTS:Women who have experienced anal incontinence following a childbirth injury, either within 7 years of sustaining the injury, or if they identified new, or worsening symptoms of AI at the time of menopause. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:Main outcomes are experiences of women with anal incontinence following childbirth injury, and missed opportunities within the care they received. RESULTS:The following main themes were identified: opportunities for diagnosis missed, missed opportunities for information sharing and continuity and timeliness of care. CONCLUSIONS:Anal Incontinence following a childbirth injury has a profound impact on women. Lack of information and awareness both amongst women and healthcare professionals contributes to delays in accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.