Rectocele | |
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Sagittal section of the lower part of a female trunk, right segment. (Rectovaginal fascia not labeled, but region is visible.) | |
Specialty | Gynecology |
In gynecology, a rectocele (/ˈrɛktəsiːl/ REK-tə-seel) or posterior vaginal wall prolapse results when the rectum bulges (herniates) into the vagina.[1] Two common causes of this defect are childbirth and hysterectomy.[2] Rectocele also tends to occur with other forms of pelvic organ prolapse, such as enterocele, sigmoidocele and cystocele.[1]
Although the term applies most often to this condition in females, males can also develop it. Rectoceles in men are uncommon, and associated with prostatectomy.