Bowel

There are many things you can do to look after your bowel, including eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, doing regular physical activity and going to the toilet when you have the urge.

Learn more about the bowel, how it works, good bowel health and when to see your doctor. We also cover irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and bowel incontinence, including symptoms, causes and diagnosis.

IBS is a group of symptoms, such as pain and bloating in your belly (abdomen) and changes in your bowel movements (e.g. constipation and diarrhoea). About 30% of the population have IBS. It’s more common in women, especially those aged 18 to 39 years. Learn more about IBS, including symptoms, causes and diagnosis. Read more

Bowel incontinence is the accidental loss of control of poo or wind, leading to leakage. Many women have bowel incontinence at some time in their life, but it can happen to anyone at any age. Learn more about bowel incontinence, including causes, diagnosis, prevention and management. Read more

This content has been reviewed by a group of medical subject matter experts, in accordance with Jean Hailes policy.

© Jean Hailes Foundation. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the copyright owner. Contact: licensing@jeanhailes.org.au

Bowel

What is the bowel and how does it work?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Bowel incontinence