In someone this condition, 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. Most rectoceles occur in women where the front wall of the rectum is up against the back wall of the vagina.
Risk Factors of Rectocele:
- weakened pelvic support structures
- thinned rectovaginal septum
- birth trauma (delivery of multiples, prolonged deliveries, use of forceps, perineal tears, episiotomy into the rectum)
- history of constipation
- history of straining with bowel movements
- history of hysterectomy
Vaginal Symptoms:
- bulging
- sensation of a mass in the vagina
- pain with intercourse
- something hanging out of the vagina that may become irritated
- occasional vaginal bleeding
Rectal Symptoms:
- constipation
- rapid return of urgency after leaving bathroom (stool may be trapped in rectocele and return to lower rectum when standing)
- pelvic pressure or discomfort
Medical treatments include:
- bowel management program (diet high in fiber and fluid intake)
- stool softeners
- pessary (supports pelvic organs)
Surgical techniques may be performed through one of the following areas:
- anus
- vagina
- perineum between the anus and vagina
- above above through the abdomen
