General Information About Rectocele
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
In women, it is the herniation (bulging) of the intestine into the vagina as a result of the weakening or tearing of the connective tissue that acts as a wall between the final portion of the large intestine (rectum) and the vagina.
Giving birth to large babies, multiple difficult vaginal deliveries, chronic constipation (constantly straining on the toilet), chronic cough, obesity, and tissue weakening due to estrogen loss after menopause are the most significant causes.
A fleshy mass protruding from or felt within the vagina, a feeling of downward pressure and heaviness in the lower back/groin area, pain during sexual intercourse, and most importantly, mechanical difficulties during defecation.
While stool should normally exit through the anus, it fills up inside the blind hernia sac (pocket) that bulges toward the vagina. As the patient strains, stool enters this pocket and cannot get out. Patients often have to support (press on) the posterior vaginal wall with their fingers in order to defecate.
It is easily detected through a gynecological or general surgical (rectal) examination. A Defecography (X-ray/MRI of defecation with contrast) is performed to see the size of the hernia and to what extent it disrupts the defecation mechanism.
For mild prolapses, high-fiber diets to prevent constipation and Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles are recommended. If the hernia is large and makes defecation impossible, a Posterior Colporrhaphy (Posterior repair) surgery is performed via the vaginal route to stitch and tighten the weak wall, correcting the anatomy.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
