Enterocele, or small bowel prolapse, develops when the small intestine lowers into the pelvic cavity and pushes out the top of the vagina, creating a bulge.
Blog Snapshot:
- Certain life instances or processes that are common for women may weaken the pelvic muscles and make a small bowel prolapse occur.
- The team at Affiliated Urologists discuss the causes, symptoms and treatments for enterocele (small bowel prolapse).
Causes
As alluded to previously, enterocele is usually caused by life occurrences like pregnancy, childbirth, aging and other processes. These factors put pressure on the pelvic floor and weaken muscles that support pelvic organs, causing the small intestine to bulge. Other causes may include:
- Chronic constipation or straining bowel movements
- Chronic cough
- Bronchitis
- Heavy lifting
- Being overweight or obese
Symptoms
Mild cases of enterocele may produce no signs or symptoms, but more severe cases could cause feelings of fullness or a pulling sensation. Other symptoms generally include:
- Pressure or pain in your pelvic region
- Low back pain
- Bulge of tissue in your vagina
- Painful intercourse
- Vaginal discomfort or a pulling sensation in your pelvis
Treatments
Treatment for enterocele depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases can usually find relief with pelvic muscle exercises (kegel exercises) that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Moderate to severe cases may require a vaginal pessary or surgery to repair the prolapse through the vagina or abdomen. To learn more about minimally invasive surgery for enterocele, please visit our female conditions page.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or visit http://affiliatedurologists.com/contact/ for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
