What is a rectocele?
A rectocele is a bulge of the front wall of the rectum into the vagina. The rectal wall may become thinned and weak, and it may balloon out into the vagina when you push down to have a bowel movement.
What can cause a rectocele?
birth trauma such as multiple, difficult or prolonged deliveries, the use of forceps or other assisted methods of delivery, perineal tears, or an episiotomy into the rectum or anal sphincter muscles. In addition, a history of constipation and straining with bowel movements, or hysterectomy may contribute to the development of a rectocele.
What are the symptoms of a rectocele?
Many women have rectocele but only a small percentage of women have symptoms related to the rectocele. Symptoms may be primarily vaginal or rectal. Vaginal symptoms include vaginal bulging, the sensation of a mass in the vagina, pain with intercourse or even something hanging out of the vagina that may become irritated.
How is a rectocele diagnosed?
an x-ray study called a defecagram. This study shows how large the rectocele is and if it empties with evacuation.
What treatment is available for a rectocele?
Rectoceles that are not causing symptoms do not need to be treated. In general, you should avoid constipation by eating a high fiber diet and drinking plenty of fluids.
Medical treatment
A bowel management program is the best first step. This includes a diet high in fiber and 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day. Fiber acts like a sponge
Avoid prolonged straining.
Surgical treatment
If symptoms persist even with medical therapy, then surgical repair may be indicated.
