Prof. Dr. Emre Sivrikoz

Specialty Area

Rectocele

A rectocele is a pelvic floor condition in which the rectum bulges toward the back wall of the vagina. The most common complaints are a feeling of incomplete emptying and difficulty with bowel movements. Not every rectocele requires surgery; treatment is planned according to the severity of symptoms.

Information

What Is Rectocele?

Definition

A rectocele is a pelvic floor condition that makes bowel movements difficult because the rectum bulges toward the vagina. The most common causes are childbirth, pelvic floor muscle weakness, and chronic constipation.

A rectocele does not always require surgery. An individualized plan is made by evaluating symptom severity, the presence of constipation, and pelvic floor support.

The goal is to improve bowel function and quality of life while avoiding unnecessary surgery.

Why Does Rectocele Happen?

Key factors that contribute to rectocele include:

Pelvic floor weaknessSupportive tissues for the rectum become weaker.
Vaginal deliveriesEspecially multiple deliveries may increase risk.
Chronic constipationLong-term straining places stress on the pelvic floor.
Older ageTissue laxity and loss of elasticity.
Pelvic surgeriesPrevious operations may have an effect.
Combined factorsMore than one contributing factor is common.

Who Gets Rectocele?

Women who have had multiple vaginal deliveries
People with long-standing constipation
Individuals with reduced pelvic floor support
Rare in men

What Are the Symptoms of Rectocele?

Most common symptoms

  • Feeling of incomplete emptying
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the vagina
  • Need for manual support with a hand or finger during defecation
  • Less commonly, discomfort in the anus or vagina
Symptoms may vary throughout the day; an examination is important for an accurate diagnosis.

Is Rectocele Dangerous?

A rectocele is usually not life-threatening. However, worsening constipation, difficulty with bowel movements, and progressive pelvic floor symptoms can significantly affect quality of life. If symptoms are present, evaluation is recommended.

Can Rectocele Be Confused with Hemorrhoids or Rectal Prolapse?

Yes. Rectocele can be confused with hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse, and functional constipation. An accurate diagnosis is critical for appropriate treatment.

How Is Rectocele Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through a detailed history and gynecological and proctological examination. When needed, imaging tests such as defecography or pelvic MRI may be planned.

1 History + examination

The type and severity of symptoms are assessed.

2 Defecography

Pelvic floor movement during defecation can be evaluated.

3 Pelvic MRI

Pelvic floor anatomy and associated problems may be assessed.

Can Rectocele Go Away on Its Own?

No. A rectocele does not resolve spontaneously. However, in mild cases without significant symptoms, surgery may not be necessary; follow-up and lifestyle adjustments may be sufficient.

Treatment for Rectocele

Treatment is planned according to the severity of symptoms.

Non-surgical treatment Treating constipation, increasing dietary fiber, improving toilet habits, and pelvic floor exercises are first-line options.
Pelvic floor exercises When performed correctly and consistently, they may help reduce symptoms.
Surgical treatment In cases with significant symptoms and reduced quality of life, rectocele repair surgery may be considered.

Specialist approach

The key criterion in rectocele treatment is how much symptoms affect daily life. Not every rectocele requires surgery.

When should I see a doctor?

  • If you have a persistent feeling of incomplete emptying
  • If you need manual support for bowel movements
  • If symptoms do not improve despite constipation treatment
  • If vaginal fullness is progressively increasing

Early evaluation helps avoid unnecessary surgery.

FAQ

Rectocele — Frequently Asked Questions (Patient Guide)

The most common questions about rectocele, answered briefly and clearly.

A rectocele is a condition in which the rectum bulges toward the vagina, usually due to pelvic floor weakness.
The most common causes are vaginal deliveries, chronic constipation and straining, aging, and weakening of pelvic floor muscles.
Difficulty with bowel movements, a feeling of incomplete emptying, vaginal fullness/pressure, and sometimes the need for manual support may occur.
No. In mild cases without symptoms, follow-up alone may be sufficient.
It is usually diagnosed with a pelvic and rectal examination. If needed, defecography or pelvic MRI may be requested.
Rectocele is often a result of constipation rather than the cause, but it can make bowel movements more difficult and worsen symptoms.
Yes. A high-fiber diet, constipation management, better toilet habits, and pelvic floor exercises are first-line approaches.
Surgery may be considered when symptoms significantly affect daily life and do not improve with conservative treatment.
The approach varies by patient. Vaginal, perineal, or rectal repairs may be used, with the aim of strengthening pelvic floor support.
Most patients return to daily life within a few weeks. Avoiding constipation and not straining the pelvic floor are important during recovery.
Real Reviews

Patient Information Note

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

Experience

The key criterion in rectocele treatment is how much symptoms affect daily life. Not every rectocele requires surgery.

Expertise

Author: Prof. Dr. Emre Sivrikoz, Specialist in General Surgery
Experience in colorectal surgery and pelvic floor disorders

Medical Review

Last updated: 02 / 2026

References

  • American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS)
  • UpToDate® – Rectocele
  • International Continence Society (ICS)

Improve your quality of life.

With the right diagnosis and effective treatment, you can ease your daily life.

Book an Examination Appointment
Ara WhatsApp