What are Rectocele and Enterocele?
Rectocele is the prolapse of the rectum into the vagina while enterocele is the prolapse of the intestine into the vagina.
Rectocele is a condition where the posterior wall of the vagina weakens, allowing the rectum to protrude forward into the vagina. This colpocele can cause difficulty in emptying the rectum and a feeling of fullness in the vagina.
Enterocele refers to the projection of the small intestine through the upper wall of the vagina. It often coexists with rectal prolapse (rectocele).
Main Risk Factors
The main risk factors for these conditions include all situations that damage or weaken the supporting structures (muscles, ligaments, tissues) of the pelvic organs:
- Pregnancy and childbirth: Due to injury to supporting tissues
- Aging: Natural weakening of tissues over time
- Menopause: Decreased estrogen affects tissue elasticity
- Chronic constipation: Continuous pressure during defecation
- Heavy lifting: Excessive pressure on the pelvic area
- Chronic cough: Chronic pressure on the pelvic area
- Obesity: Chronic pressure on the pelvic area
- Heredity: Quality of tissues and collagen
Symptoms of Rectocele and Enterocele
The main symptoms are:
- Difficulty with defecation
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Need to press with finger on the posterior vaginal wall to achieve defecation
- Heaviness and pressure in the pelvic area
- Feeling of foreign body in the vagina
- Pelvic heaviness
- Discomfort during intercourse
Diagnosis of Rectocele and Enterocele
Rectocele and enterocele are diagnosed with clinical examination.
For accurate diagnosis, the following may be needed:
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- Proctography
Treatment Options of Rectocele and Enterocele
Conservative Treatment for Mild Degree Prolapse
- Achieving and maintaining healthy body weight
- Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel)
- Use of pessary, a device inserted into the vagina that provides mechanical support
Surgical Treatment
When conservative treatment fails, rectocele and enterocele are treated with surgery.
Prevention Strategies
For prevention:
- Maintaining healthy body weight
- Managing chronic constipation
Potential Complications
Without treatment, pelvic dysfunction can lead to:
- Worsening of symptoms
- Chronic constipation
- Sexual disorders
These symptoms usually negatively affect the psychological state of the affected woman.
Treatment Results
With appropriate surgical treatment:
- Patients are cured
- Quality of life improves significantly, returns to normal
- Risk of recurrence is very low
When to See a Specialist
A visit to a urogynecologist is recommended when:
- Symptoms affect daily life
- There is a feeling of prolapse
- Problems with defecation
- Discomfort during intercourse
Conclusion
Rectocele and enterocele are common conditions that affect women's quality of life. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, symptoms can be effectively managed. A scientific approach by a specialized urogynecologist offers proper diagnosis and selection of the appropriate therapeutic method, which are key to successful management of this common and unpleasant condition.
Early treatment by a specialized urogynecologist, such as Kostis Nikolopoulos, offers substantial relief.
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