A rectal prolapse happens when part of your rectum slips out of place and may even drop out of your anus. While this condition is rare, affecting only about 0.5% of people, women over the age of 50, especially those who have had several pregnancies, are most likely to have it.1 And while this may sound scary, knowing the rectal prolapse symptoms, causes, and treatments can help you manage it.
What is rectal prolapse?
A rectal prolapse happens when the walls of your rectum (the lower part of your large intestine, which stores poop) becomes injured or weak and moves out of its normal position.
There are different types of rectal prolapse, but all are linked to changes in pelvic support and the pelvic floor muscles:2
- Internal prolapse (intussusception): This is when your rectum folds inside itself (sort of like a telescope) when you’re straining, but it stays inside your body.
- Partial (mucosal) prolapse: This is when some of the inside lining of your rectum begins to drop outside of your anal opening.
- Complete (external) prolapse: This is when your whole rectum turns inside out and drops out of your anal opening (usually during bowel movements, but it can progress to be more constant).
Causes and risk factors of rectal prolapse
Rectal prolapse is more likely when the tissues that support your rectum are weakened over time. Common causes include:2
- Chronic constipation and straining during a bowel movement
- Weak or stretched pelvic floor muscles
- Pregnancy or childbirth
- Aging, menopause, or loss of tissue support
- Nerve or muscle changes in the anal canal or rectal wall
Preventing constipation is an important part of preventing and protecting rectal support. Your provider may recommend fiber, hydration, or stool softeners to reduce straining with bowel movements.
What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?
Here are some common rectal prolapse symptoms:3
- A feeling like your rectum isn’t fully empty after pooping
- Leakage of blood supply, mucus, or stool (fecal incontinence) from your anus
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in your pelvic area
- Diarrhea or constipation
Many people first notice rectal prolapse symptoms during or after bowel movements. And symptoms may worsen when standing, lifting, straining, or coughing. Depending on the type of prolapse you have, you may also notice reddish tissue poking out of your anus.
If you notice these changes often or they become a chronic issue, your pelvic floor likely needs some support. And get medical help right away if your rectum can’t be pushed back in or if you’re having heavy bleeding.
If your symptoms are affecting your comfort, daily activities, or confidence, support from a pelvic health professional can make a meaningful difference in how you feel.
Get help managing your symptoms
Rectal prolapse vs. hemorrhoids
Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids can look and feel similar, so it’s easy to mix them up. But they are different:
- With rectal prolapse, the tissue that slips out is part of the rectal wall lining.
- With hemorrhoids, the tissue is swollen veins that bulge near your anal canal.
Here is a quick comparison of the two:
Rectal prolapse treatments
The right treatment for rectal prolapse can depend on the type of prolapse you have, your symptoms, and how advanced your prolapse is.
Non-surgical options
If your prolapse and symptoms are more mild you may benefit from:
- Pelvic floor physical therapy
- Bowel routine training to prevent constipation
- Posture and toileting strategies during a bowel movement
- Nutrition and stool softeners to reduce straining
These more conservative approaches can improve pelvic support, reduce rectal prolapse symptoms, and may even help you delay or avoid prolapse surgery.
If you’re ready to strengthen your pelvic floor and reduce strain during bowel movements, guided exercises and routines can help you build support safely and gradually.
Surgical options
If symptoms are more severe, don’t improve with conservative treatment, or when your prolapsed rectum stays out of your body, you may need rectal prolapse surgery.2 In many surgeries, the surgeon removes the prolapsed section or repairs the rectal wall to restore support.
Your provider will discuss the type of prolapse surgery that is safest for your body and long-term goals.
Exercises to support your pelvic floor
Gentle exercises can help improve support around your rectum and pelvic floor muscles. Here are three simple exercises to start with.
1. Kegels on an exercise ball
- Sit tall on the ball, feet flat on the floor. Inhale to relax your pelvic floor in the ball.
- Exhale and gently lift and squeeze your pelvic floor muscles up away from the ball.
- Relax fully between each repetition.
Tip: Focus on tightening the back of your pelvic floor near your tailbone, like you’re trying to hold back gas.
2. Practice pushing properly (so you don’t strain)
- Exhale like you’re blowing out a candle.
- Let your belly expand out.
- Think “big belly, relaxed muscles.”
3. Supportive bridge pose
- Lie on your back with knees bent.
- Lift hips and place a pillow or block under your hips.
Breathe and relax, then lift hips to remove support and lower.
Take care of your pelvic health with the V-Hive
Movements just like these are taught step-by-step inside our guided programs in The V-Hive. You’ll also find expert pelvic floor education, workouts, and support at your own pace.
Rectal prolapse can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to manage it alone. With early care, many people can feel better and more in control. Pelvic floor physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and (when needed) rectal prolapse surgery can help protect your long-term bowel and pelvic health.
Take care of your body, learn how to support your pelvic floor muscles, and feel more confident in your daily movement with The V-Hive community.
For step-by-step guidance, specialized education, and ongoing support as you care for your pelvic health, the V-Hive community is here to help you feel informed and empowered.
References
- Bordeianou, L., et al,. (2017). Clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of rectal prolapse. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum.
- Oruc M, et al,. (2023). Current diagnostic tools and treatment modalities for rectal prolapse. World J Clin Cases.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases. (2019). Rectal prolapse. NIH.org.
