Overview
A rectocele is a form of pelvic organ prolapse that occurs when the tissues and muscles that hold the end of the large intestine (rectum) in place are stretched or weakened. This results in the rectum moving from its natural position to press against and sometimes through the back wall of the vagina.
A rectocele usually develops when a woman's pelvic muscles become weak as a result of having children, aging, or having previous surgery. In rare cases, a rectocele may be present at birth (congenital).
A rectocele may become large or more obvious with straining or bearing down (for example, during a bowel movement). A rectocele may cause pain during sexual intercourse or difficulty when passing stool.
Many cases of rectocele do not cause symptoms and do not require treatment. If treatment is needed, a rectocele usually can be surgically corrected.
How can you care for a rectocele?
- Avoid heavy lifting. It puts pressure on your pelvic muscles.
- Do pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises, which tighten and strengthen pelvic muscles. To do Kegel exercises:
- Squeeze the same muscles you would use to stop your urine. Your belly and thighs should not move.
- Hold the squeeze for 3 seconds, and then relax for 3 seconds.
- Start with 3 seconds. Then add 1 second each week until you are able to squeeze for 10 seconds.Repeat the exercise 10 to 15 times a session. Do three or more sessions a day.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
- To ease pressure on your rectum and vagina, lie down and raise your legs by putting a pillow under your knees. You also can lie on your side and bring your knees up to your chest.
- Avoid constipation.
- Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day. These foods are high in fiber.
- Drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
- Get some exercise every day. Build up slowly to 30 to 60 minutes a day on 5 or more days of the week.
- Take a fiber supplement, such as Citrucel or Metamucil, every day if needed. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- Schedule time each day for a bowel movement. Having a daily routine may help. Take your time and do not strain when having your bowel movement.