Name: Anonymous 2011-11-21 12:30
How does bowel control work?
Bowel control relies on muscles and nerves of the rectum and anus working together to hold and release stool. The rectum, which is the lower end of the large bowel, also called the large intestine, stretches to hold stool. Stool is normally solid by the time it reaches the rectum. Circular muscles called sphincters close tightly like rubber bands around the opening at the end of the rectum, called the anus, until stool is ready to be released during a bowel movement. Pelvic floor muscles also help maintain bowel control.
Bowel control relies on muscles and nerves of the rectum and anus working together to hold and release stool. The rectum, which is the lower end of the large bowel, also called the large intestine, stretches to hold stool. Stool is normally solid by the time it reaches the rectum. Circular muscles called sphincters close tightly like rubber bands around the opening at the end of the rectum, called the anus, until stool is ready to be released during a bowel movement. Pelvic floor muscles also help maintain bowel control.