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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Rectocele and Rectal Prolapse?

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Rectocele and rectal prolapse are two different conditions related to pelvic organ prolapse. Here are the main differences between the two:

Rectocele:

  • A rectocele occurs when the weakened tissues in the pelvis cause the rectum to sag onto the vaginal wall, which is a form of pelvic organ prolapse.
  • The rectum bulges into the vagina, and in severe cases, it may protrude out of the vagina.
  • Risk factors for rectocele include pregnancy and childbirth, aging, chronic constipation, obesity, and chronic cough or bronchitis.
  • Symptoms may include pelvic, vaginal, and rectal pressure, difficulty emptying bowels, and the feeling of incomplete evacuation.
  • Treatment options can range from increased fiber intake to surgery, depending on the severity of the rectocele.

Rectal Prolapse:

  • Rectal prolapse is when the walls of the rectum protrude through the anal opening.
  • The rectal tissue may protrude and retract depending on movement and activity, but as the condition progresses, it may protrude more frequently or even permanently.
  • Risk factors for rectal prolapse include straining due to constipation, tissue damage following surgery, and rectocele.
  • Symptoms may include bleeding and/or tissue protruding from the rectum, discomfort, and impact on quality of life.
  • Treatment options can range from lifestyle changes to surgery, depending on the severity of the rectal prolapse.

In summary, rectocele is a condition where the rectum bulges into the vagina, while rectal prolapse is when the walls of the rectum protrude through the anal opening. Both conditions are related to pelvic organ prolapse and can have various symptoms and treatment options depending on the severity.

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  • What is the Difference Between Rectocele and Rectal Prolapse?
  • Comparative Table: Rectocele vs Rectal Prolapse

    • Comparative Table: Rectocele vs Rectal Prolapse

    Here is a table comparing the differences between rectocele and rectal prolapse:

    Feature Rectocele Rectal Prolapse
    Definition A medical condition where the tissues between the rectum and vagina become weakened, making the rectum bulge onto the back wall of the vagina. A medical condition where the rectum slips down inside the anus, allowing it to telescope out through the anus and turn "inside out".
    Cause Weakened pelvic tissues. Anatomical abnormalities, constipation, and straining during bowel movements.
    Symptoms Discomfort and pain during defecation, urination, or sex. Discomfort and pain during defecation, urination, or sex.
    Treatment Surgical intervention, such as stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR), to repair the rectocele. Surgical intervention, such as abdominal rectoplexy with possible bowel resection, to repair the rectal prolapse.
    Prevalence Common problem that often does not produce symptoms. Rarely results in an emergent medical problem but can be quite embarrassing and negatively impact patients' quality of life.

    While both rectocele and rectal prolapse are not life-threatening conditions, they can cause discomfort and pain during defecation.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.