Nondiscrimination Policy Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To read our full Nondiscrimination Statement, click here.

Language

Anal Sphincter Injury

A sphincter injury is when the muscle surrounding the anal canal is damaged or torn. These muscles include the internal and external anal sphincter muscle, which play an important role in controlling bowel movements.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an anal sphincter injury depend on the severity of the injury and may include:

  • The inability to control your bowel movements
  • Increased gas
  • Not being able to get completely clean after bowel movements
  • Rectal pain

Treatments

The main treatment for an anal sphincter injury is to surgically repair the muscles.

Risk Factors

Anal sphincter injuries are more common in those who have had anal or rectal surgery, or tears or episiotomies during childbirth.

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

department

Colon and Rectal Surgery

BMC’s colorectal surgeons offer cutting-edge surgical treatments for conditions that affect the colon, rectum, and anus, in coordinating with other specialists.