Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. In a rectal prolapse, part or all of the wall of the rectum slides out of place and sticks out of the anus. It may be a: Rectal prolapse is most common in older female adults. It sometimes occurs in young children. The exact cause is not clear, but many things increase the risk of rectal prolapse. These include straining during bowel movements because of constipation. Tissue damage caused by surgery or childbirth, or weak pelvic floor muscles due to aging, may also lead to rectal prolapse. The first symptoms of rectal prolapse may be: Other symptoms may include: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and do a physical exam. This may include checking the rectum for loose tissue and checking how strongly the anal sphincter contracts. You may need tests to rule out other conditions. For example, you may need a colonoscopy or a barium enema. These may be done to look for tumors, sores (ulcers), or abnormal narrow areas in the large intestine. If a rectal prolapse doesn't improve with self-care, you may need surgery. Doctors may attach the rectum to the muscles of the pelvic floor or the lower end of the spine (sacrum). In some cases, they may also remove a section of the large intestine. Current as of: March 21, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: March 21, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Rectal Prolapse
Condition Basics
What is rectal prolapse?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is rectal prolapse treated?
Related Information
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Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: March 21, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.Rectal Prolapse