What is defined as lacking voluntary control over the bladder or bowel?

The term that defines the lack of voluntary control over the bladder or bowel is incontinence. This condition can manifest in various forms, such as urinary incontinence, which involves the involuntary loss of urine, or fecal incontinence, where there is an inability to control bowel movements, leading to involuntary leakage of stool.

Incontinence is a significant concern in care services and support because it can greatly affect the quality of life, leading to potential embarrassment, social isolation, and a decrease in overall well-being. Management and care strategies for individuals experiencing incontinence often include implementing scheduled toileting, utilizing absorbent products, and providing support for pelvic floor exercises, depending on the type and degree of incontinence experienced.

The other options refer to different conditions: urinary retention denotes difficulty in emptying the bladder, constipation is characterized by infrequent bowel movements and difficult passage of stools, and fecal impaction refers to a large mass of stool that becomes stuck in the intestines or rectum, often leading to blockage. However, none of these terms specifically address the lack of voluntary control as incontinence does.