What is Rectal Prolapse? and how we can identify it ? 

Classification

  • Cystocele – bladder slides down into the vagina
  • Enterocele – small intestine slides down into the vagina
  • Rectocele – rectum slides down into the vagina
  • Urethrocele – urethra slides down into the vagina
  • Uterine Prolapse – uterus slides down into the vagina
  • Vaginal Vault Prolapse – vaginal prolapse after hysterectomy

Symptoms

Mild degree prolapse may not exhibit any symptoms, but most women with major prolapse may experience the following:

  • Discomfort in the pelvic area or lower abdomen
  • Swelling or full sensation in the vagina
  • Difficulty in urinating or defecating
  • Urinary and/or fecal incontinence
  • Recurrent bladder infection
  • Painful intercourse

Causes

The weakening of the supporting tissues of the pelvic floor causes female genital prolapse. Common factors are:

  • Pregnancy and childbirth – excessive stretching and tearing of the soft tissues and muscles
  • Surgical removal of the uterus – most of the supporting structures of the uterus are detached
  • After menopause – thinning and weakening of tissues as a result of the lack of female hormones
  • Any condition leading to increased pressure in the abdomen (constipation, chronic cough, heavy lifting)

Prevention

The key to prevention is to strengthen the pelvic muscles. Pelvic floor exercises are very much advised during pregnancy and after childbirth to help new mothers to regain normal pelvic anatomy and avoid any issues.

Treatment

Non-surgical treatment:

For patients who do not wish to undergo surgical operation, they may choose to have pessaries inserted in their vagina to relieve the symptoms temporarily. For menopausal women, estrogen creams may be applied into the vagina.

Biofeedback and pelvic floor rehabilitation are both breakthrough medical procedures for female genital prolapse.

surgical treatment

Curative surgery is performed to correct the defects and restore normal anatomy and sexual function. Procedures include fastening the bladder and/or uterus and/or vagina, or “tightening” the vagina. Surgery is done through either the vagina or abdomen, depending on the condition.

Our center offers the latest minimally invasive techniques to guarantee our patients no pain after operation and quick recovery time.