Cloacal Anomaly

Your child’s long-term outlook depends on the severity of their condition and whether they have other related health issues or birth defects. Regardless of the severity of their condition, long term care is crucial. Most children with milder cases of cloacal anomaly eventually develop good control of urine, but they remain at risk for urinary tract infections. It will be important to prevent urinary tract infections and make sure that they are emptying urine properly to prevent long term kidney damage. Girls with milder cloacal anomalies may also have nearly normal patterns of passing stool., but may need dietary changes and/or medications to help with stool control.

In more severe anomalies, girls may need surgeries to help achieve urine and stool control.

Most children born with cloacal abnormalities are able to have a typical sex life as adults. Women with a history of cloacal anomaly may be able to have children, though they typically would need to deliver by Cesarean birth rather than a vaginal birth.

Many children with cloacal abnormalities will be able to potty train. Many children with cloacal anomalies will have trouble potty training. Our team will discuss your child’s unique needs and the potential for potty training for urine and stool.

If your child is unable to potty train for stool, our specialists will provide a customized treatment plan through our bowel management program. If your child is unable to potty train for urine, our urologists will provide strategies and medical or surgical therapies to help your child stay dry and in normal underwear.