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Elimination

Encopresis

Repeated stool discharge in inappropriate places from the age of four years. It's often associated with constipation.

Common signs

Soiling underwearFrequent constipationShame and hiding it

Tips

For you

  1. See the paediatrician about constipation
  2. Toilet routines after meals
  3. Positive reinforcement and no punishment

For family and friends

  1. Calm toilet routines after eating
  2. Praise successes and don't punish accidents

When to ask for help

  1. See the paediatrician about constipation
  2. If there is abdominal pain or blood

Test for families

For parents or relatives: answer thinking about the child or person you are worried about, over the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. Soils their underwear with stools
2. Is over four years old
3. It happens at least once a month
4. Is constipated
5. Finds it hard to go to the toilet or puts it off
6. Feels ashamed
7. Hides dirty clothes
8. It started after a change or a stressful time

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guide: Childhood and youthFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

EnuresisElimination

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.