Anal hygienic pad and method of use

Abstract

A method is disclosed for absorbing anal leakage, such as fecal material, blood or flatulence. The method includes positioning an intergluteal absorbent pad external to the anal orifice of a subject such that the pad is retained between the buttocks, and any discharge from the anus is absorbed by the absorbent material of the pad. The pad has a smaller minor portion superimposed on a larger major portion, and the smaller minor portion is inserted as a leading edge between the gluteals of the subject to facilitate insertion by gradually moving the gluteals apart. The smaller minor portion of the pad is positioned against the anal orifice to minimize pressure exerted in this sensitive area, while the larger major portion is retained in the less sensitive intergluteal space. The major portion conforms to the soft tissue of the gluteals, and is large enough to help retain the pad frictionally in place without any adhesive or garment to hold it in place. The pad can have a variety of shapes, including major and minor portions that are portions of spheres or ellipsoids, or which are elongated and have cross-sections that are circular or ellipsoid. Insertion and retention of the pad adjacent to the anus helps alleviate symptoms of the hemorrhoids, absorbs leakage (such as fecal material or medication), and can also be used as a reservoir to administer medication.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to the field of anal incontinence, more specifically to a device for absorbing anal leakage or other discharges. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Hemorrhoids are varicosities of anal veins which are common following pregnancy, as one ages, or as a result of a more sedentary lifestyle. Those suffering from hemorrhoids are often not able to use common suppositories or cremes for the relief of itching or pain during the day, because suppositories or cremes can leak during ambulation or when it is not possible to remain supine. Hemorrhoids can also bleed or result in a mucus discharge that can stain clothing. Although any resulting anal discharge (which may include feculent material) may be in small amounts, it can be hygienically and emotionally distressing. [0003] Anal incontinence (the loss of feces and contaminated moisture) or loss of blood from hemorrhoids or anal fissures, are common problems, particularly with activities suc...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes an absorbent pad designed to be placed between the buttocks to collect any anal discharge. The pad can be retained in place without the need for adhesive or other attachment devices. The pad is designed to alleviate symptoms of hemorrhoids or deliver therapeutic substances to the anal orifice. The pad can be any shape, but particularly shapes that taper towards the anterior edge, such as a bipartite pad with a major and minor portion. The pad is comfortable and securely retained in the intergluteal space, with the anterior edge slightly deforming the surrounding buttocks for better friction. The technical effects of this invention include improved comfort, retention, and therapeutic efficacy for hemorrhoids."

Problems solved by technology

Those suffering from hemorrhoids are often not able to use common suppositories or cremes for the relief of itching or pain during the day, because suppositories or cremes can leak during ambulation or when it is not possible to remain supine.

Hemorrhoids can also bleed or result in a mucus discharge that can stain clothing.

Although any resulting anal discharge (which may include feculent material) may be in small amounts, it can be hygienically and emotionally distressing.

Anal incontinence (the loss of feces and contaminated moisture) or loss of blood from hemorrhoids or anal fissures, are common problems, particularly with activities such as jumping or running.

The loss of even small amounts of discharge from the anus may give rise to a pungent and abhorrent odor, accompanied by a feeling of wetness and / or irritation.

Anal incontinence may lead to the development of other diseases due to the bacteria laden moist environment created by this leakage.

Such secretions and exudations may mix to produce disagreeable odors, and may be accompanied by an uncomfortable feeling of wetness.

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