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Meckel's diverticulum

Also called: Meckel's diverticulum

A small pouch in the small intestine present from birth. Most cause no problems; some cause painless rectal bleeding in young children.

CommonAbout 2 in 100 people
SignPainless bleeding in a toddler

Overview

A Meckel's diverticulum can contain stomach tissue that makes acid and causes bleeding.

It can also cause blockages or inflammation.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Painless rectal bleeding in a child

Less common

  • Belly pain

When to get medical care

Call 911Heavy bleeding or vomiting with belly pain.
Get care todayBlood in stool.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Born with it.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Boys

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Meckel scan:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Watch for blood in stool
  • Tell doctors about past episodes

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Toddlers: Most bleeding cases.
  • Children under 2: Most bleeding cases.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Surgery cures it if needed.

Surgery cures it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?
  • Does it need surgery?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Meckel's diverticulum

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.