Posterior vaginal prolapse (rectocele)

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A posterior vaginal prolapse, also known as a rectocele, occurs when the wall of fibrous tissue that separates the rectum from the vagina weakens. When this happens, tissues or structures just behind the vaginal wall — in this case, the rectum — can bulge into the vagina.

A posterior vaginal wall prolapse occurs when the thin wall of tissue that separates the rectum from the vagina weakens, allowing the vaginal wall to bulge. Posterior vaginal prolapse is also called a rectocele (REK-toe-seel).

Childbirth and other processes that put pressure on pelvic tissues can lead to posterior vaginal prolapse. A small prolapse may cause no signs or symptoms.

If a posterior vaginal prolapse is large, it may create a noticeable bulge of tissue through the vaginal opening. This bulge may be uncomfortable, but it’s rarely painful.

If needed, self-care measures and other nonsurgical options are often effective. Severe posterior vaginal prolapse might require surgical repair.

Posterior vaginal prolapse (rectocele) care at Mayo Clinic

A small posterior vaginal prolapse (rectocele) may cause no signs or symptoms.

Otherwise, you may notice:

Many women with posterior vaginal prolapse also experience prolapse of other pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus or — for women who have had surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy) — the top of the vagina.

Posterior vaginal prolapse is common, even in women who haven’t had children. In fact, you may not even know you have posterior vaginal prolapse.

But sometimes moderate or severe posterior vaginal prolapses can be bothersome or uncomfortable. See your doctor if:

Posterior vaginal prolapse results from pressure on the pelvic floor. Causes of increased pelvic floor pressure include:

The muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that support your vagina become stretched and weakened during pregnancy, labor and delivery. The more pregnancies you have, the greater your chance of developing posterior vaginal prolapse.

Women who have had only cesarean deliveries are less likely to develop posterior vaginal prolapse, but still may.

Factors that may increase your risk of posterior vaginal prolapse include:

To reduce your risk of worsening posterior vaginal prolapse, try to:

Posterior vaginal prolapse (rectocele) care at Mayo Clinic

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Posterior vaginal prolapse (rectocele)

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