If you have rectal prolapse, you may notice a reddish mass that comes out of the anus, often while straining during a bowel movement. The mass may slip back inside the anus, or it may remain visible.
Other symptoms may include:
- The inability to control bowel movements (fecal incontinence)
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Leaking blood or mucus from the rectum
- Feeling that your rectum isn’t empty after a bowel movement
Causes
The cause for rectal prolapse is unclear. Though it’s a common assumption that rectal prolapse is associated with childbirth, about one-third of women with the condition have never had children.
Risk factors
Certain factors may increase your risk of developing rectal prolapse, including:
- Sex. A majority of people with rectal prolapse are women.
- Age. Rectal prolapse is more common in people over age 50.
