Rectocele

[rachb2019]

Hi everyone,

I have a mild rectocele and it is driving me mad with bowel problems at the moment. Does anyone have any experience of these annoying things?

My main symptom is that I can't start a bowel movement - even if I really need to go and sit on the toilet for ages. If I do finally manage to start one, then I struggle to finish it (never feel as though I am finished, and end up having to try again a short while after I leave the toilet, but can't)

Driving me mad at the moment!

Raise your legs. I have a step for a toddler. Take things like ground flaxseed in your porridge with a large amount of water during the day to add bulk. It really helps but you have to be disciplined about it.

Thanks :)

I have tried raising my legs already - unfortunately it doesn't help very much.

I think part of the problem is psychological in that - I worry about not being able to "go", then can't relax on the toilet, which makes me worry even more about not being able to go

Sounds ridiculous but try hypnobirthing techniques. Breathing down etc.

Insert your thumb into your vagina and apply pressure to the back wall. Not nice but necessary

I agree, sometimes it is necessary. I saw a women's health physio who really helped. It took a while but I did notice a difference.

Thank you.

I sometimes apply pressure to my perineum when trying to go - I'll try this as well.

Anything to have a normal bowel movement that doesn't involve straining and still not being able to start it!

Have you seen your GP? Ask for a referral to gynae or women’s health physio, proper penvic floor strengthening exercises can really help some women. Unfortunately for me only surgery helped in the end.