How Incontinence Affects the Skin?

The skin areas most affected are near the buttocks, hips, genitals, and between the pelvis and rectum (perineum). Excess moisture in these areas makes skin problems such as redness, peeling, irritation, and yeast infections likely.

How does urinary incontinence affect the skin?

The skin, when exposed to urine or feces regularly, can become inflamed. The condition is worse for those with fecal incontinence, as stool can irritate the skin more than urine. In many cases, IAD is caused by: an increase in the skin's pH level.

What are the risks of incontinence on skin integrity?

Both urinary and faecal incontinence can have a significant impact on skin integrity. Inappropriate management can cause the skin to become excoriated, leading to large areas of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD), which can cause pain and discomfort.