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Anal Prolapse

Condition Overview:

Anal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum falls downwards and turns inside out. Initially, the rectum stays inside the body, but as the condition worsens, it may protrude outside through the anus. There is often weakness of the anal muscles, which may result in leakage of mucus or stool.

Anal prolapse causes the rectum to turn inside out, so that the rectal lining is visible as a dark red, moist fingerlike projection from the anus. Less commonly, the rectum protrudes into the vagina (rectocele (see Pelvic Floor Disorders: Types and Symptoms).A temporary prolapse of only the rectal lining (mucosa) often occurs in otherwise healthy infants, probably when the infant strains during a bowel movement, and is rarely serious. In adults, prolapse of the rectal lining tends to persist and may worsen, so that more of the rectum protrudes. A complete prolapse of the rectum is called procidentia; this occurs most often in women older than age 60.To determine the extent of a prolapse, a doctor examines the area after the person strains. By feeling the anal sphincter with a gloved finger, a doctor often detects diminished muscle tone. A sigmoidoscopy and barium enema x-rays (see Symptoms and Diagnosis of Digestive Disorders: Endoscopy) of the large intestine may reveal an underlying disease.

In infants and children, a stool softener eliminates the urge to strain. Strapping the buttocks together between bowel movements usually helps the prolapse heal on its own.