Can Rectocele Cause Constipation?

A rectocele can lead to constipation and discomfort, but if it is small, there may be no symptoms. Most people can treat a rectocele at home, but a severe case may need surgery.

How does a rectocele affect bowel movements?

Symptomatic rectoceles can lead to excessive straining with bowel movements, the urge to have multiple bowel movements throughout the day, and rectal discomfort. Fecal incontinence or smearing may occur as small pieces of stool can be retained in a rectocele (stool trapping), only to later seep out of the anus.

What helps constipation from rectocele?

Refractory constipation often can be treated with stronger medications like Miralax, an over-the-counter stool softener, which is a powder similar to that used in bowel preparations. True laxatives are to be avoided as these irritate the bowel to force the colon to move stool forward and out.