Prof. Dr. Emre Sivrikoz

Specialty Area

Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum (the last part of the large intestine) protrudes through the anal canal. It may occur only during bowel movements at first, but can become persistent in more advanced stages.

Information

What Is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse is the protrusion of the rectum through the anal canal. It may be seen only during bowel movements early on, but can become persistent and significantly affect quality of life in more advanced stages.

Patients may describe this as “tissue coming out of the anus.” Even if it can be pushed back in at an early stage, the underlying problem usually persists, so definitive treatment is often surgical.

Accurate diagnosis helps avoid confusion with hemorrhoids and speeds up appropriate treatment.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Rectal Prolapse?

It can occur at any age, but it is more common in the following groups:

Older age
Chronic constipation and straining
Multiple vaginal deliveries
Pelvic floor weakness
Managing constipation can influence both symptoms and recurrence risk.

What Causes Rectal Prolapse?

In many patients, more than one factor plays a role:

Muscle weaknessWeakness of the pelvic floor and anal sphincter muscles.
Constipation and strainingLong-term increase in pressure.
Neurologic conditionsMay affect muscle control.
Pelvic surgeriesPrior surgeries may increase risk.
Age-related laxityReduced tissue elasticity over time.
Combined factorsMultiple factors may coexist.

Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse

Most common symptoms

  • Red or pink tissue protruding from the anus
  • Worsening prolapse during bowel movements
  • Mucus discharge or stool leakage
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Feeling of incomplete evacuation
Symptoms can worsen over time and significantly affect daily life.

How Is Rectal Prolapse Different from Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids often protrude as separate “lumps,” whereas rectal prolapse is typically a circular, more continuous protrusion. Definitive distinction should be made by specialist examination.

Is Rectal Prolapse Dangerous?

Rectal prolapse is usually not life-threatening. However, if left untreated, it may lead to fecal incontinence, persistent bleeding or infection, skin irritation, and pain—causing a noticeable decline in quality of life.

How Is Rectal Prolapse Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is often made through a careful physical examination. If needed, additional tests may be used to assess severity and identify accompanying problems.

1 Examination

The type and degree of prolapse are assessed.

2 Endoscopy (if needed)

Colonoscopy may be requested to rule out additional pathology.

3 Functional tests

Defecography, MRI, or anal manometry may be used in selected cases.

Tests that may be recommended

  • Colonoscopy
  • Defecography
  • MRI imaging
  • Anal manometry

Does Rectal Prolapse Go Away on Its Own?

No. Rectal prolapse does not resolve spontaneously. Even if it can be pushed back in temporarily, the underlying issue remains. Definitive treatment is surgical in most patients.

Treatment for Rectal Prolapse

Treatment is tailored based on age, overall health, and the degree of prolapse. The goal is to correct the prolapse permanently and improve functional outcomes.

Abdominal approachesProcedures such as laparoscopic/robotic rectopexy.
Perineal approachesPerformed through the anus in selected patients.
Minimally invasive surgeryClosed techniques are commonly preferred today.
Choosing the right approach is critical to reducing recurrence risk.

What Is Recovery Like After Surgery?

  • Hospital stay is usually short.
  • A constipation-preventing diet and medications (if needed) are very important.
  • Return to daily activities is often fast for most patients.
Constipation control affects both healing and long-term results.

Can Rectal Prolapse Come Back?

With appropriate surgical techniques, recurrence risk is low but not zero. Avoiding constipation and straining, and maintaining regular follow-up, can help reduce recurrence.

When Should I See a Doctor?

Situations that should be evaluated without delay

  • Tissue protruding from the anus or increasing prolapse
  • New or worsening stool/gas leakage
  • Bleeding, discharge, foul odor, or skin irritation
  • More pronounced feeling of incomplete evacuation

Early assessment can support better planning and improved functional outcomes.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse is when the rectum (the last part of the large intestine) protrudes through the anal canal. It may occur only during bowel movements or become persistent in advanced stages.
Pelvic floor weakness is a key factor. Older age, chronic constipation and straining, multiple vaginal deliveries, neurologic conditions, and prior pelvic surgeries can increase risk.
Protruding red–pink tissue, increased protrusion during bowel movements, mucus discharge or stool leakage, bleeding, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation may occur.
Yes. Hemorrhoids usually appear as separate bulges, whereas rectal prolapse is often a circular, broader protrusion. Definitive diagnosis is made by examination.
Usually not life-threatening, but it can cause fecal incontinence, chronic bleeding, infection, skin irritation, and significant quality-of-life impairment.
Diagnosis is commonly made with physical examination. If needed, tests such as colonoscopy, defecography, MRI, or anal manometry may be recommended.
No. Even if it can be pushed back in temporarily, the underlying cause persists. Definitive treatment is usually surgical.
Treatment is surgical. Depending on the patient and severity, abdominal (laparoscopic/robotic) or perineal approaches may be chosen.
Recovery depends on the chosen method. Hospital stay is often short, and constipation prevention (diet and medications) is crucial during recovery.
Recurrence risk is low with proper technique but not zero. Avoiding constipation and straining, and regular follow-up, can help reduce recurrence.
Real Reviews

Patient Information Note

This content is for general informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment are individualized. Please consult a general surgery specialist for your symptoms.

Author

Prof. Dr. Emre Sivrikoz, Specialist in General Surgery
Clinical experience in colorectal surgery and proctology

Medical Review

Last updated: 02 / 2026

References

  • American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS)
  • UpToDate® – Rectal Prolapse
  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

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