Rectal Prolapse

Definition: A rectal prolapse is when the distal colon
also called the rectum/sigmoid colon, gets pushed out of the
rectum.  This usually occurs with a bowel movement
and is usually associated with constipation and hard
stools.  In many cases when it first occurs, the prolapse
spontaneously reduces.  As the muscles weaken, the
prolapse will eventually protrude as a mass from the
rectum and it will need to be pushed back manually.

Therapy: Initially, stool softeners and high fiber
diets are used to allow for easy passage of stool and
to eliminate straining.  It is common for physicians
to obtain a barium enema and to do a sigmoidoscopy 
to evaluate the problem thoroughly and completely.

If this does not solve the problem, then a surgeon
will be consulted for surgical repair.