Abstract
Defecation is a reflex provoked through a sacral arc by distention of the rectum. In infancy, the evacuation of the rectum occurs reflexly. The development of the control over defecation reflex is associated with the growth of inhibition over it. The cerebral cortex cannot only inhibit the reflex but can also initiate it when suitable circumstances are available for voiding. Thus, continence is an acquired capacity to suppress the natural urge to defecate. When this capacity is impaired, incontinence occurs.
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© 2016 Springer India
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Wani, R.A., Thakur, N. (2016). Physiology of Defecation. In: Chowdri, N., Parray, F. (eds) Benign Anorectal Disorders. Springer, New Delhi. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-81-322-2589-8_2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-81-322-2589-8_2
Publisher Name: Springer, New Delhi
Print ISBN: 978-81-322-2588-1
Online ISBN: 978-81-322-2589-8
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