Print PageEmail Page  Rectal Prolapse  What is rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse occurs when the upper portion of the rectum
telescopes itself inside out and comes out through the rectal
opening. It is seen most often in elderly women, but it can
occur in men and women of any age.  What causes rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse is associated with chronic straining to pass
stool. It is known that the attachments of the rectum to the
pelvic bones progressively weaken. When these attachments are
weak, straining to pass stool causes the rectum to turn itself
inside out. In many cases, the cause is unknown.  What symptoms
occur with rectal prolapse? The primary symptom is the feeling
of tissue coming out of the rectum. Bleeding and mucus drainage
frequently accompany rectal prolapse. When the problem first
starts, the rectum may turn itself inside out but not come out
the rectal opening. During this phase a common symptom is the
frequent urge to have a bowel movement when there is no need to
pass stool. As the prolap