Rectal Prolapse Specialists in Maharashtra

Does rectal prolapse always require surgery?

Not always — mild cases may be managed with dietary fiber, stool softeners to reduce straining, and pelvic floor exercises, though surgical repair is the definitive treatment for significant or persistent prolapse. The choice between an abdominal or perineal surgical approach depends on the patient's overall health and prolapse severity.

Why is rectal prolapse more common in older women?

Chronic straining from long-standing constipation, multiple vaginal deliveries, and age-related weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue that support the rectum all contribute, which explains why the condition is seen far more often in women over 50. Addressing chronic constipation early can help reduce this risk over time.

Can rectal prolapse in a child resolve without surgery?

Yes, in children it is often linked to an underlying condition such as cystic fibrosis or malnutrition, and treating that underlying cause along with stool softening measures frequently allows the prolapse to resolve without surgery. A pediatrician should evaluate for these underlying conditions when prolapse occurs in a child.

Is rectal prolapse the same as hemorrhoids?

No, hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels near the anus, while rectal prolapse involves the rectal wall itself slipping down and protruding through the anus, a more significant structural problem. The two can sometimes be confused on visual inspection, so a colorectal specialist can distinguish between them with an examination.

What happens if rectal prolapse is left untreated?

Untreated prolapse can worsen over time and lead to increasing difficulty with bowel control, chronic irritation, and in some cases bleeding or ulceration of the exposed tissue. Prompt evaluation allows treatment to start before the prolapse becomes more severe or the surrounding muscles weaken further.