Rectocele

What is rectocele and what are the symptoms?

Rectocele is a common gynecological condition that can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. It occurs when the rectum bulges against a woman's pelvic floor wall, leading to pressure and possibly a feeling of heaviness.

Pelvic floor weakness is often the underlying cause, resulting from childbirth or natural aging. Other risk factors for developing rectocele are obesity and constipation.

Common symptoms include an urge to urinate frequently, incomplete emptying of the bladder during urination, painful bowel movements, difficulty defecating, straining when trying to defecate, and pain in the lower back or pelvis.

It is possible to manage this condition with simple lifestyle changes such as strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises combined with dietary changes and medications.

Causes of rectocele and how it can be treated.

The primary causes of rectocele include birth trauma or injury to the area, age, history of chronic strain during bowel movements due to constipation or hemorrhoids, previous pelvic surgery, genetic factors, and weakened or loose muscles.

Fortunately, rectocele can generally be treated without surgery. Mild cases can be managed with lifestyle changes such as eating more fiber to prevent constipation and doing pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the affected muscles. In moderate cases, physiotherapy and prescription medications can be used for symptom relief. For severe cases, surgical treatment may be beneficial to support and stabilize the area around the prolapse.

Rectocele is a common condition, but one that should not be ignored; with proper screening and care, it can help patients find relief from their symptoms and continue to live an active life.

Tips on how to prevent rectocele from occurring or worsening.

Rectocele, or bulging of the rectum into the vagina, can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment for many women. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent it from forming in the first place or worsening over time.

First and foremost, stay active and maintain a healthy weight, as this helps promote good muscle tone that supports the pelvic organs. In addition, refrain from lifting heavy objects regularly and be careful when bearing down to lift heavier objects.

Maintaining a good posture while standing and sitting also helps strengthen the muscles in the abdominal and pelvic area. Foods with a lot of fiber help soften the feces, so they pass more easily to reduce the load during defecation.

Finally, strength exercises that target this area can help keep everything toned and responsive to treatment if symptoms worsen.

All of these steps can contribute to support and maintenance for the pelvic organs, and help minimize any symptoms of a rectocele.

If you think you have rectocele, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out more serious conditions. Our doctors can take a thorough review of your symptoms and conduct an examination.