Can Kegels Exercises Help a Rectal Prolapse?

July 3, 2008 10:05 AM

Has anyone out there got a prolapse of the rectal lining or sagging pelvic floor that causes a pressure feeling all the time like you need to empty bowels, and you cannot distinquish whether its pressure only or a need to evacuate? Do you know if kegel exercises are any good for this condition, or what would help while I'm waiting for treatment? Thank you very much.
posted by Ruby Tuesday to Health & Fitness (3 answers total)

Tenesmus
posted by ruwan at 10:21 AM on July 3, 2008

It makes quite a difference whether you are talking about rectal mucosal prolapse (where the lining of the rectum bulges out of the anus), or rectocele (where the rectum bulges forward making a lump in the vagina) They can both cause tenesmus.

I don't specifically know of any studies showing benefit from pelvic floor muscle training / kegels for rectal mucosal prolapse, and I couldn't find any looking briefly just now on PubMed.

Pelvic floor training can however (probably) improve the sensation from a rectocele, although I don't believe it can really be curative.

If you are going to start, it should probably be supervised by a specialist physio. Doing pelvic floor training wrong can put extra strain on a prolapse.
posted by roofus at 11:12 AM on July 3, 2008

I think it would be a really good idea to speak with a specialist about what you can do while you are waiting. But, that said, my friend dealt with a lot of pelvic floor problems after childbirth and she probably knows everything there is to know about related exercises- if you want I can talk to her and email you. Feel free to contact me if you are interested.
posted by mistsandrain at 11:49 AM on July 3, 2008