Bowel and Bladder Problems

Cancer and cancer treatment may cause bowel or bladder changes or problems such as diarrhea, constipation, incontinence, or retention.  Learn why they might happen and what to expect if they do.

Constipation

Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passage of hard stool, which often can be painful and uncomfortable. It's important to know what might cause constipation and how it can be managed. 
Diarrhea

Diarrhea is loose, watery bowel movements that might happen several times a day with or without discomfort.  Since diarrhea can have many causes, there can be different ways to manage it.
Bowel Incontinence

Leaking or being unable to control stool is called bowel incontinence.  It might happen to some people who have certain types of medical conditions, including cancer. Learn who might be at risk for bowel incontinence and how to get help.
Bladder Incontinence

Leaking or being unable to control urine is called bladder incontinence.  It might happen to some people who have certain types of medical conditions, including cancer. Learn who might be at risk for bladder incontinence and how to get help.
Urine Retention

Being unable to completely empty the bladder is called urinary retention.  People with certain types of tumors or who are taking certain medications or cancer treatments might have a higher risk for this. It's important to learn how urinary retention can be managed.

Related Topics

Ostomies

Learn about the different types of ostomies, including colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy. Find out why they might be needed, and how they might affect a person's life.
High-Fiber and Low-Fiber Foods

A low-fiber diet may be suggested for diarrhea, cramping, trouble digesting food, or after some types of surgery. Here you'll find lists of low-fiber foods, along with lists of foods to avoid.

Related Resources

Flyer: What to Do for Diarrhea

More Resources

Worksheet: Track Your Chemotherapy Side Effects
Worksheet: Track Your Radiation Therapy Side Effects
Cancer Care Toolkit

Organize your cancer journey with the American Cancer Society Cancer Care Toolkit.
Caregiver Resource Guide

A helpful tool for people who are caring for someone with cancer. View the complete guide here.