Splinting is a physical maneuver where a person applies external or internal pressure to assist in the passage of stool. This technique is often employed when natural defecation proves difficult or incomplete.
Understanding Splinting
Splinting involves using fingers or a hand to apply pressure, typically on the perineum (the area between the anus and genitals) or internally within the vagina. This provides support or leverage, helping to overcome resistance that prevents stool from passing. For instance, vaginal splinting involves inserting a clean finger into the vagina and gently pushing against the back wall that borders the rectum, aiming to move stuck stool outward. External splinting may involve applying pressure to the perineal body or between the buttocks, just above the anus.
Reasons for Splinting
Individuals resort to splinting due to various underlying causes that hinder natural bowel movements. Chronic constipation, often resulting in hard or impacted stools, is a common factor. Pelvic floor dysfunction, where muscles and tissues supporting pelvic organs do not work in coordination, can also lead to splinting. This includes conditions like rectocele, where the rectal wall bulges into the vaginal wall, creating a pocket where stool can become trapped.
Dyssynergic defecation, a condition where pelvic floor muscles fail to relax or even contract during an attempted bowel movement, can prevent stool from passing. Perineal descent, characterized by stretched or lax pelvic floor tissues that move downward during defecation, may also prompt splinting for support. Discomfort or tissue injury following childbirth can also make initial bowel movements challenging, leading some new mothers to use perineal support to minimize pain and muscle tension.
When to Consult a Doctor
Persistent reliance on splinting indicates an underlying issue that warrants medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if splinting becomes a regular necessity, or if you experience symptoms such as persistent pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits like stool consistency or frequency. A feeling of incomplete evacuation or worsening constipation are also indicators to seek professional advice.
Splinting is often a symptom of conditions like pelvic floor dysfunction or rectocele. While waiting for a medical assessment, adopting healthy bowel habits can be beneficial. This includes ensuring adequate hydration and a fiber-rich diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stool. Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining proper toilet posture, such as using a squatting position or a step stool, can also promote easier bowel movements and potentially reduce the need for manual assistance.