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Rectocele

Experiencing pelvic pressure or difficulty during bowel movements? Dr. Rishi Chadha at GastroDoxs specializes in rectocele diagnosis and personalized treatment in Houston. From lifestyle adjustments and non-surgical options to advanced minimally invasive procedures, find relief and restore pelvic floor health.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Rectocele?

A rectocele happens when the wall between the rectum and vagina becomes weak. This allows the rectum to bulge into the back of the vagina. It's a type of pelvic organ prolapse. Women in Houston often ask, -What is a rectocele prolapse?- It means part of the rectum is pushing into or out of the vagina, causing discomfort.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Vaginal childbirth
  • Getting older
  • Chronic constipation and straining
  • Being overweight
  • Past pelvic surgeries, like a hysterectomy

Signs and Symptoms

  • Pressure or fullness in the vagina
  • A bulge felt or seen near the vaginal opening
  • Trouble passing stool
  • Needing to press on the vagina to have a bowel movement
  • Pelvic pain or lower back discomfort

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Rectocele?

Dr. Rishi Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:

1. Symptom Assessment and Medical History

Dr. Chadha will talk with you about your symptoms, medical history, childbirth history, and any risk factors like chronic constipation or prior pelvic surgeries.

2. Gentle Pelvic Examination

A hands-on pelvic exam allows him to feel for vaginal bulges, assess the strength of the rectovaginal wall, and confirm a rectocele.

3. Imaging Studies (as needed)

  • Defecography-an X-ray or MRI study performed during bowel movements to visualize how the rectum bulges into the vagina.
  • Pelvic ultrasound or MRI-to get detailed images of pelvic organs and rule out other prolapses.

4. Quality-of-Life Evaluation

He may use questionnaires to understand how rectocele symptoms affect your daily activities, bowel habits, and comfort, ensuring a personalized treatment plan.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for rectocele at GastroDoxs.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat more fiber-fruits, veggies, and whole grains
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Do pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) to strengthen muscles

2. Medications

  • Stool softeners or gentle laxatives to avoid straining
  • Vaginal estrogen cream (for postmenopausal women) to help tissue health

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Pessary: A small device placed in the vagina to support organs
  • Laparoscopic surgery: Small cuts and a camera help repair the wall
  • Transvaginal mesh (used selectively): A mesh patch supports weak tissue
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can you live with a rectocele?

Mild cases may not need surgery. Early care'like diet changes and pelvic exercises-helps keep symptoms from worsening.

What is a rectocele?

It's when the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina due to a weakened tissue barrier.

What is rectocele prolapse?

It's a more advanced form where the bulge can be felt or even seen protruding from the vagina.

How can I live with a rectocele?

Eat more fiber, stay hydrated, avoid straining, and practice pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) regularly.

Do I need surgery for rectocele?

Not always. Many women find relief with non-surgical treatments such as pessaries, lifestyle changes, and medication.

Does rectocele cause pain during sex?

Some women experience pressure or discomfort. Pelvic floor therapy and proper lubrication can help improve comfort.

Can it get worse over time?

Yes. Without proper care, the prolapse can progress and symptoms may intensify.

What are the surgery options?

Repairs can be done transvaginally or laparoscopically with small incisions to reinforce the rectovaginal wall.

Can I still exercise?

Yes. Low-impact activities and guided pelvic floor workouts are generally safe and encouraged.

How long is recovery after surgery?

Most patients return to light activities in 1-2 weeks and resume normal routines in about 4-6 weeks.

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