What does rectocele mean in medical terms?
A posterior vaginal prolapse, also known as a rectocele, occurs when the wall of fibrous tissue that separates the rectum from the vagina weakens. When this happens, tissues or structures just behind the vaginal wall — in this case, the rectum — can bulge into the vagina.
Can poop get stuck in a rectocele?
When rectoceles become symptomatic a conversation with your doctor is needed. Problems may include: Difficulty having a complete bowel movement because of stool getting stuck in the rectum. The need to press against the vagina and/or space between the rectum and the vagina to have a bowel movement.
Can you heal a rectocele without surgery?
The vast majority of a patient’s symptoms associated with a rectocele can be managed effectively without surgery. It is very important to have a good bowel regimen in order to avoid constipation and straining with bowel movements. A high fiber diet of 25+ grams per day can help with this goal.
What happens if rectocele is not treated?
If a rectocele is left untreated, the following complications may occur: Pressure or discomfort in the pelvic area. Constipation. Leakage of bowel movements (incontinence)
What is the best treatment for rectocele?
Rectocele Treatment Mild cases can often be improved with pelvic floor exercises and bowel training. Moderate to severe cases are often treated with a vaginal pessary (a support device inserted into the vagina) or rectocele repair (a minimally invasive surgical procedure).
How do you poop with a rectocele?
How do you poop with a rectocele? With severe prolapse, you may need to use your fingers to hold your vaginal wall up so that you can poop. This process is called “splinting.” You may have to use a finger to nudge the poop out. Ensure that your finger is clean (bacteria-free) before inserting it into your vagina.
How do you clear your bowels with a rectocele?
NONSURGICAL TREATMENT
- Eating a high-fiber diet and taking over-the-counter fiber supplements (25-35 grams of fiber/day)
- Drinking more water (typically 6-8 glasses daily)
- Avoiding excessive straining with bowel movements.
- Applying pressure to the back of the vagina during bowel movements.
Is rectocele repair major surgery?
Rectocele repair is a major surgery. A doctor will often suggest it only after other treatments have failed to correct your problem.
How serious is a rectocele?
A rectocele may not cause symptoms. Or, you may notice a bulge in your vagina when you strain or bear down during a bowel movement. You may feel pressure, have pain during sex, or have trouble passing stool. A rectocele usually does not cause serious health problems.
Can you push a rectocele back in?
Splinting, this is inserting a tampon or two fingers inside the vagina and pushing back. Surgical repair may be indicated if the rectocele is severe. A rectocele repair may be performed through the anus, vagina, perineum (between the anus and vagina), the abdomen, or may be a combined repair.
Does a rectocele show up on a colonoscopy?
You may also have rectal pain, trouble having a bowel movement (BM), , or a feeling of fullness in your rectum. Your caregiver will be able to find your rectocele by doing a physical exam. You may need other tests, such as a barium enema, colonoscopy, MRI, or ultrasound.
How long do you stay in hospital after rectocele surgery?
What happens after the procedure? You may stay in the hospital anywhere from 2 to 6 days. The catheter may remain in your bladder 2 to 6 days or until your bladder starts working normally again. You may be constipated during this time.
What kind of doctor fixes a rectocele?
A rectocele can also be repaired by a colorectal surgeon through a transanal repair. The rectocele is reached through the anus. This method is preferred by many colorectal surgeons because it allows for correction of problems in the anal or rectal area, in addition to repairing the rectocele.
What does rectocele mean?
What Does Rectocele Mean? Rectocele is a condition in which the front wall of the rectum herniates and causes a bulge in the back vaginal wall. This condition may also be referred to as posterior prolapse or pelvic organ prolapse.
What does rectocele mean in medical dictionary?
A bulge of tissue protruding through the vaginal opening
What are symptoms of rectocele?
A soft bulge or lump in your vagina that may bulge through your vaginal opening
How is a rectocele diagnosed?
A pelvic exam is used to check the size and location of a rectocele.