Rectocele

The rectovaginal septum is the connective tissue that separates the rectum (bowel) from the vagina. Defects in the rectovaginal septum can result in a rectocele. The rectovaginal septum is attached at its upper portion to the cervix and the lower portion to the perineum. The perineum is the space between the vaginal opening and the anus.

A rectocele occurs when a break in the septum allows the rectum to push into the vaginal area. Symptoms most commonly associated with a rectocele are: Tissue protrusion from the vagina, pelvic pressure, inability to empty bowels, pain with intercourse, and discomfort with physical activities.

Below is a comparison diagram of normal female anatomy to a diagram of rectocele.

The below is a larger view of normal female anatomy, followed by a larger view of rectocele.

Normal Female Anatomy:

Rectocele:

For rectocele treatment options, please contact Dr. Richard M. Wasserman, M.D. at Nevada Surgery and Cancer Care, Las Vegas, Nevada at - 1-866-374-7531.

• Vaginal Prolapse
• Cystocele
• Rectocele (you are here)
• Uterine Prolapse
• Enterocele
• Female Urinary Incontinence
• Stress Urinary Incontinence
• Overactive Bladder
• Mixed Urinary Incontinence