Rectal Prolapse

Also known as: partial prolapse, mucosal prolapse

What is rectal prolapse?

The rectum is the lower portion of the large intestine that meets up with the anus. When the rectum slips through the anus and is exposed, this is known as rectal prolapse.

What causes rectal prolapse?

A number of factors can cause rectal prolapse. These include chronic constipation or diarrhea, old age, straining during bowel movement, nerve damage, weakened muscles and other diseases.

What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?

A bulging sensation, pain, bleeding, incontinence and a worsening prolapse are all potential symptoms.

What are rectal prolapse care options?

In some cases, rectal prolapse can be treated by using stool softeners to address the underlying cause, and pushing the rectum back into place by hand. In more extreme instances, surgery to repair the rectal prolapse will be necessary.

Reviewed by: Juan L Calisto, MD

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:27 PM

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Functional Constipation

Constipation is a common symptom that refers to the inability or difficulty to produce a bowel movement. In some cases, the constipation can be so severe that it causes dangerous symptoms.

Constipation

Constipation in a common problem in children and is described as a condition where the child has infrequent or hard dry and small bowel movements that are difficult to pass and are painful.

Delorme Procedure

Delorme procedure is a treatment for rectal prolapse, or a condition in which the rectum passes outside of the anus. It involves surgically repairing the rectal prolapse.