What Is Rectal Prolapse? Symptoms and Causes

Rectal prolapse is a condition in which part of the rectum loses its internal support and slips out through the anus. At first the tissue appears only during bowel movements and goes back in by itself; over time it may need to be pushed back by hand, and in advanced stages it stays outside permanently.

The first symptoms

Most patients notice a soft, moist bulge coming out of the anus while passing stool. Alongside it, mucus discharge and constant dampness around the anus are common, together with skin irritation, mild bleeding and a feeling of incomplete emptying. In later stages, controlling gas or stool can become difficult.

Prolapse or hemorrhoids?

The two are often confused because both can produce tissue at the anus. With hemorrhoids the protruding tissue consists of separate swollen cushions and bleeding is more prominent. With prolapse, a ring-shaped fold of the bowel wall emerges, wider and with concentric circles. A short examination by a proctologist tells them apart reliably.

Why it happens

The main cause is weakening of the muscles and ligaments that hold the rectum in place. Chronic constipation and years of straining lead the list, followed by multiple childbirths, advancing age and chronic cough. Long sessions on the toilet add steady pressure on the pelvic floor.

When to see a doctor

As soon as you first feel tissue coming out, even if it goes back in on its own. In the early stages rectal prolapse treatment is simpler and the results last longer. How the non-surgical approach works is explained in how rectal prolapse is treated without surgery.

The stages of rectal prolapse

Prolapse develops gradually. In the earliest, internal stage the rectal wall folds into itself without showing outside; patients mainly notice difficulty emptying. Later, the lining alone may protrude, and in full-thickness prolapse the entire wall of the rectum comes through the anus.

The stage decides the treatment. Early and moderate stages can often be handled as outpatient rectal prolapse treatment under local anesthesia, while long-neglected, full-thickness cases more often need an operation.

What to expect at the examination

The visit is shorter and easier than most patients fear. The doctor asks about symptoms and bowel habits, then performs a gentle inspection; sometimes you are asked to bear down briefly so the prolapse becomes visible.

No fasting or enema is required beforehand. In unclear cases the doctor may add a short internal examination with a thin instrument, which takes minutes and locates the source of any bleeding or discharge at the same time.

Is rectal prolapse dangerous?

It is not life-threatening, but it does not resolve on its own and gradually gets worse. Rarely, the protruding tissue can become trapped and require urgent care.

Does it only affect older people?

It is most common after 50 and in women after childbirth, but chronic constipation can bring it on earlier.

More patient questions

Can pelvic floor exercises cure a prolapse?

Exercises can support the pelvic floor and ease mild symptoms, but they do not pull an established prolapse back into place. They are best seen as a supplement to treatment, not a replacement.

Is rectal prolapse the same as pelvic organ prolapse?

No. Pelvic organ prolapse in women involves the bladder, uterus or vaginal wall descending, while rectal prolapse concerns the bowel itself. The two can coexist, which is why a thorough assessment matters.

Can one episode of heavy straining cause it?

A single strain does not create a prolapse. It develops over years of pressure on weakened supporting tissue — which is also why improving bowel habits is part of every treatment plan.

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How Is Rectal Prolapse Treated Without Surgery?