What is Rectocele? Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Methods

Rectocele is a pelvic organ prolapse that occurs when the rectum (the last part of the large intestine) sags towards the vaginal wall. This condition, which is usually seen in women, occurs as a result of the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. Conditions such as childbirth, aging, heavy lifting and chronic constipation can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. Rectocele can manifest itself with symptoms such as difficulty defecating, vaginal discomfort and pressure in the pelvic area.


 

What is Rectocele?

Rectocele is a condition in which the rectum sags towards the vaginal wall. As the pelvic floor muscles weaken, the rectum presses against the vagina, causing a bulge in the vaginal wall. This condition is usually associated with factors such as childbirth, chronic constipation, or aging.

Rectocele Stages:

• Stage 1: Mild rectocele. The rectum slightly protrudes into the vagina and does not cause any significant discomfort.
• Stage 2: The rectum protrudes to the vaginal opening and discomfort begins to be felt.
• Stage 3. Stage: The rectum can prolapse to the outside of the vagina, which usually requires surgical intervention.

These stages determine the severity of the rectocele and play an important role in choosing the appropriate treatment method.

What Causes Rectocele?

The main cause of rectocele is weakening or damage to the pelvic floor muscles. The failure of the pelvic floor muscles to perform their functions causes the rectum to sag towards the vaginal wall.

Main Causes of Rectocele:

• Birth: Pelvic muscles can be under great pressure during vaginal birth, which can cause them to weaken.
• Chronic Constipation: Long-term straining can strain the pelvic floor muscles, leading to rectocele formation.
• Aging: As we age, the elasticity of the pelvic muscles decreases, which increases the risk of rectocele.
• Menopause: During menopause, estrogen levels decrease, which can cause pelvic can cause the floor muscles to weaken.
• Heavy Lifting: Constant heavy lifting increases the risk of rectocele by weakening the pelvic floor muscles.

These reasons may be effective in the development of rectocele and may cause the rectum to sag towards the vaginal wall.

What are the Symptoms of Rectocele?

The symptoms of rectocele can be mild or severe depending on the degree of sagging. While some women may not notice the symptoms of a mild rectocele, serious discomfort can occur in advanced stages.

Main Symptoms of Rectocele:

• Difficulty in Bowel Movements: People with rectocele may have difficulty during bowel movements, and may feel unable to completely empty their stool.
• Feeling of Fullness in the Vagina: A feeling of fullness or pressure in the vagina is a common symptom.
• Constipation: Chronic constipation is a common symptom of rectocele and also one of its causes.
• Discomfort During Sexual Intercourse: Rectocele can cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
• Vaginal Protrusion: In advanced stages, rectocele can cause a protrusion in the vagina that can be felt from the outside.

These symptoms can negatively affect daily life and require treatment depending on the progression of the rectocele.

Rectocele Risk Factors

Rectocele can occur due to various risk factors. Being aware of these risk factors can play an important role in preventing the development of rectocele.

Factors That Increase Rectocele Risk:

• Age: Pelvic muscles weaken as we age and the risk of rectocele increases.
• Birth: Having multiple vaginal births can weaken the pelvic floor muscles and increase the risk of rectocele.
• Chronic Constipation: Long-term straining can strain the pelvic muscles and trigger the development of rectocele.
• Heavy Lifting: Lifting heavy loads can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to the formation of a rectocele. can open.
• Genetics: Women with a family history of pelvic floor weakness or rectocele may be at higher risk.

To minimize these risk factors, pelvic musclesIt is important to keep the pelvis strong and adopt healthy lifestyle habits.

Rectocele Treatment Methods

Rectocele treatment may vary depending on the severity of the prolapse and the symptoms experienced by the patient. In mild cases, lifestyle changes and exercises may be sufficient, while in advanced cases, surgical intervention may be required.

Common Treatment Methods for Rectocele:

1. Kegel Exercises: These exercises, which strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, are quite effective in mild cases of rectocele.
2. Diet Changes: Preventing constipation and facilitating bowel movements by consuming fibrous foods can relieve the symptoms of rectocele.
3. Using a Pessary: A pessary device placed inside the vagina can support the rectum and alleviate the effects of prolapse.
4. Surgical Intervention: Surgical intervention may be required in advanced stages. Surgery may be performed to restore the rectum to its original position and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

Treatment options are determined by the symptoms experienced by the patient and the stage of the rectocele.

Ways to Prevent Rectocele

To prevent rectocele, it is important to do exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and maintain intestinal health.

Measures That Can Be Taken to Prevent Rectocele:

• Kegel Exercises: Kegel exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles should be done regularly.
• Healthy Weight: Getting rid of excess weight reduces the pressure on the pelvic muscles and reduces the risk of rectocele.
• Consuming Fibrous Foods: It is important to consume fibrous foods and drink enough water to prevent constipation.
• Avoid Heavy Lifting: Avoiding heavy lifting helps maintain pelvic floor health.

These preventive measures can reduce the risk of rectocele and support pelvic health.

The Effect of Rectocele on Sexual Life

Rectocele can have negative effects on sexual life. Some women may experience discomfort or pain during intercourse and a loss of self-confidence.

Effects on Sexual Life:

• Discomfort During Sexual Intercourse: Rectocele can cause discomfort and pain during intercourse.
• Sexual Self-Confidence: The feeling of vaginal fullness due to rectocele can negatively affect sexual self-confidence.
• Recovery After Treatment: After treatment, the discomfort experienced during intercourse decreases and sexual self-confidence increases.

It is possible for sexual life to improve after treatment and the discomfort caused by rectocele can be eliminated.

When is Rectocele Surgery Necessary?

Surgery may be required in advanced rectocele cases. Surgery is performed by restoring the rectum to its normal position and repairing the pelvic floor muscles. Surgical intervention is usually applied in advanced stages of prolapse and in cases where other treatment methods are inadequate.

Surgical Interventions:

• Rectal Support Surgery: This is a surgery performed to bring the rectum to its normal position and strengthen the vaginal wall.
• Pelvic Reconstruction Surgery: This is a type of surgery performed to prevent the rectum from sagging into the vagina in advanced rectocele cases.

The decision for surgery is made by the doctor according to the severity of the rectocele and the general health status of the patient.

Relationship Between Menopause and Rectocele

Menopause is an important risk factor for rectocele development. During menopause, decreased estrogen levels can cause weakening of pelvic tissues, increasing the risk of rectocele.

Postmenopause Treatment Methods:

• Hormone Therapy: Estrogen supplements can relieve rectocele symptoms by strengthening the pelvic muscles.
• Laser Therapy: Non-surgical laser treatments can be used to tighten vaginal tissues.
• Surgical Options: Surgical intervention may be required in advanced stages.

In postmenopausal rectocele cases, it is possible to relieve discomfort with appropriate treatment options.

Candidates for Rectocele

Rectocele treatment is suitable for women whose pelvic floor muscles have weakened and who have begun to experience rectal prolapse. Treatment options vary depending on the person’sı is evaluated depending on the symptoms and the stage of the rectocele.

Who is Suitable for Treatment?

• Women with Weak Pelvic Muscles: Women with weakened pelvic floor muscles and symptoms of rectocele.
• Those with Difficulty in Bowel Movements: Women with difficulty defecating and constipation.
• Those with Discomfort During Sexual Intercourse: Women who experience discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.

It is important to talk to your doctor to find out if you are a candidate for treatment.

Persistence of Rectocele

The results obtained after rectocele treatment are usually permanent. However, factors such as aging, childbirth or chronic constipation can cause the prolapse to recur over time. Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles can increase the permanence of the results after treatment.

Long-Term Effects After Treatment:

• Regular Exercise: Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles increase the permanence after treatment.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight and preventing constipation can prevent rectocele from recurring.

Regular check-ups and healthy habits are important for the results to be permanent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How is rectocele understood?

Symptoms of rectocele include a feeling of fullness in the vagina, constipation, difficulty defecating, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. It is important to see a doctor if these symptoms are present.

2. Does rectocele go away on its own?

Rectocele usually does not go away on its own. Exercises and lifestyle changes can help in mild cases, but advanced cases may require treatment.

3. Is it possible to prevent rectocele?

Yes, doing regular Kegel exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding constipation can reduce the risk of rectocele.

4. Does rectocele affect sexual life?

Yes, rectocele can cause discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse. These problems can be largely resolved after treatment.

5. Is rectocele surgery difficult?

The difficulty of the surgery depends on the degree of rectocele. While simple surgical procedures can be fast and effective, more extensive surgeries may be required in advanced cases.

6. Can rectocele recur?

There is a risk of rectocele recurrence after treatment, but this risk can be reduced with regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle.