Rectal prolapse

Overview

Rectal prolapse is when part of the rectum slips out through the anus, at first only during bowel movements.

Long-term straining, constipation, childbirth, and weak pelvic muscles raise the risk.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Tissue coming out of the anus

Less common

• Leaking stool or mucus
• Bleeding

When to get medical care

Causes

Weak muscles.

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

• Older women

Diagnosis

Exam.

Treatment

Avoid straining.

Self-care

• Fiber
• Push the tissue back gently with a moist cloth if it comes out
• Add fiber and water to soften stools
• Don't strain on the toilet
• Don't strain

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Treat constipation
• Avoid straining

Which doctor treats this

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

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older women: Most common.
• Women over 50: Most common.

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

Fixable.

Surgery fixes most cases.

Surgery fixes most.

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

• Do I need surgery?
• What type of surgery is best for me?

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 Rectal prolapse