PROLAPSE
This
means that the rectum - which is normally inside the body
- turns inside out and protrudes out of the anus.
Though the exact cause is not known, it is more common in
people who are always constipated, and in women with weakened
pelvic muscles - for example, after childbirth. Symptoms
first occur only with defecation and then begin to
happen on their own. Underwear may become soiled with
stool and mucus, and it may eventually become impossible
to put the rectum back inside the body! Mild cases
are treated like hemorrhoids, severe cases require surgery.
The
photograph shows a prolapsed rectum (bright red area) as
well as a hemorrhoid (arrow).
