The OASI Care Bundle - a lively topic for discussion

Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) is recognised as the most common cause of anal incontinence (AI) in childbearing-aged women (Marsh 2011), encompassing symptoms of flatus incontinence, passive soiling, incontinence of liquid or solid stool and faecal urgency. These symptoms can cause social and hygienic problems that lead to:

• isolation, limiting occupational and social activity

• negative effect on sexual function and consequent impact on relationships

• reduced self-esteem and reduced quality of life

(Leigh & Turnberg 1982^, Boreham et al 2005^, Lo et al 2010^, Keighley et al 2016).