Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum (the last part of the large intestine) loses the normal attachments that keep it fixed inside the body, allowing it to slide out through the anal opening, turning it "inside out." Rectal prolapse affects mostly adults, but women ages 50 and older have six times the risk as men. It can be embarrassing and often has a negative effect on a patient’s quality of life. Although not always required, the most effective treatment for rectal prolapse is surgery. Rectal prolapse can occur as a result of many conditions, including:

Chronic (long-term) constipation or chronic diarrhea

Long-term history of straining during bowel movements

Older age: Muscles and ligaments in the rectum and anus naturally weaken with age. Other nearby structures in the pelvis area also loosen with age, which adds to the general weakness in that area of the body.

Weakening of the anal sphincter: This is the specific muscle that controls the release of stool from the rectum.

Earlier injury to the anal or pelvic areas

Damage to nerves: If the nerves that control the ability of the rectum and anus muscles to contract (shrink) are damaged, rectal prolapse can result. Nerve damage can be caused by pregnancy, difficult vaginal childbirth, anal sphincter paralysis, spinal injury, back injury/back surgery and/or other surgeries of the pelvic area.

Other diseases, conditions and infections: Rectal prolapse can be a consequence of diabetes, cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hysterectomy, and infections in the intestines caused by parasites – such as pinworms and whipworms – and diseases resulting from poor nutrition or from difficulty digesting foods.