bowel control

Bowel control is the body's ability to manage the release of stool, which involves coordination between the muscles of the rectum, anus, and the nervous system. When the rectum fills with stool, nerves signal the brain, giving the awareness to hold or release it. The anal sphincters—a set of muscles around the anus—either contract to keep stool in or relax to allow for elimination. Proper control depends on healthy muscle function, nerve signals, and regular bowel habits. Issues can arise from injury, nerve damage, or medical conditions, affecting a person's ability to control bowel movements.