The moment of death is defined by the irreversible cessation of major body functions. This event is often accompanied by the involuntary release of bodily waste. When the body’s control systems shut down, the muscles responsible for containing urine and feces immediately relax. If the bladder or lower bowel contains material when life ends, that material is commonly expelled. This natural event results from the body’s transition from controlled muscle contraction to complete flaccidity.
The Mechanism of Sphincter Relaxation
The body maintains continence using both smooth and striated muscles in the sphincters. These muscles require constant neurological signaling and energy to maintain their contracted, or closed, state. At the point of death, all nervous system activity ceases, and the muscles are immediately deprived of the necessary energy supply. This rapid loss of input causes the muscles to enter a state known as primary flaccidity, which is the complete and immediate relaxation of all muscles, including the sphincters.
The relaxation of the internal and external sphincters removes the physical barrier holding waste within the bladder and rectum. The contents of the bladder and lower colon are then subject only to gravity and residual pressure. If the deceased had a full bladder or a significant amount of stool, this material will typically drain out. This immediate post-mortem release is distinctly different from events that occur later during decomposition.
Other Involuntary Post-Mortem Releases
Beyond the initial sphincter relaxation, other involuntary releases can occur due to different mechanisms, often involving the digestive tract. Air trapped in the stomach or intestines can be expelled when the body is moved or repositioned. This release may manifest as a sound similar to a burp or flatulence because the muscles controlling the openings of the esophagus and rectum are relaxed.
Later, microbial activity begins during decomposition, producing gases like hydrogen sulfide and methane. This process, known as putrefaction, causes significant bloating of the abdomen. The internal pressure from these gases can become substantial enough to force any remaining residual waste material from the bowel.
This gas-driven expulsion is a secondary event that happens hours or days after death, depending on environmental conditions like temperature. The buildup of pressure can also lead to the expulsion of putrefactive fluids from other body orifices, a process known as post-mortem purging. These later releases are a direct consequence of biological breakdown, distinct from the immediate loss of muscle tone.
Management in Medical and Mortuary Settings
Healthcare professionals anticipate these involuntary releases as a normal part of the dying process. In hospice or hospital settings, absorbent pads or protective materials are placed beneath the body. This preparation helps contain any bodily fluids or waste released immediately after death while maintaining the dignity of the deceased.
Following the pronouncement of death, mortuary staff have established procedures for managing the deceased’s body. During preparation, which may include embalming, thorough cleansing of the body is a standard first step. Any expelled waste is removed, and the body is meticulously cleaned and disinfected.
To prevent further leakage during handling and viewing, techniques are employed to seal the internal orifices. This often involves placing absorbent materials or specialized internal sealants in the rectum and sometimes the urethra. For bodies being transported or stored, they are often placed in impermeable body bags to contain any subsequent fluid release for hygienic and practical reasons.